What is the difference between limewash and whitewash?

• <div>Limewash and whitewash are two techniques used to give brick a light, matte finish, but they differ in composition, application, and permanence. The best choice depends on your aesthetic goals and the specific surface.Composition<ul><li>Limewash: A natural and environmentally friendly option made from limestone, water, and sometimes pigments. It is breathable and soaks into porous surfaces like brick.</li><li>Whitewash: Traditionally made from lime, water, chalk, and binders, but a similar look can be achieved with watered-down white paint. It is paint-based and sits on top of the surface.</li></ul>Appearance and Finish<ul><li>Limewash: Provides a natural, textured appearance that allows the brick's character to show through. It offers a more traditional finish.</li><li>Whitewash: Creates a softer, more opaque finish, often used for a rustic or shabby-chic style.</li></ul>Application and Permanence<ul><li>Limewash: Is semi-permanent and can be removed, making it a good choice if you might want to change the look in the future. It requires more skill to apply and cannot be used on previously painted brick.</li><li>Whitewash: Is a more permanent solution. It is more forgiving to apply and can be used on painted brick. However, because it sits on the surface, it can trap moisture.</li></ul>Ultimately, if you want a breathable, natural, and reversible finish for unpainted brick, limewash is a great option. If you need a more permanent, opaque coating that can be applied over painted surfaces, whitewash is the better choice. Whitewashing may also be more economical, costing approximately $1.40 to $4.20 per square foot.</div>

Get matched with top fence painters in La Plata, NM

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your fence painting project in La Plata, NM?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

TRUSTED BY LA PLATA, NM HOMEOWNERS

4.7
Average homeowner rating
33
Verified fence painting services reviews

Verified Reviews for Fence Painting pros in La Plata, NM

*The Angi rating for Fence Painting companies in La Plata, NM is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fence Painting needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Fence Painting companies in La Plata, NM is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fence Painting needs.

Last update on August 06, 2025

Reviewed in August 2025
Very adorable and the fence turned out amazing! We will definitely be using L.A Handyman for future projects!
L.A. Handyman
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2024
I recently had the pleasure of hiring Desert Winds Painting for my house painting project, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the results! From start to finish, their professionalism and attention to detail were simply outstanding. Right from the initial consultation, the team was...
Desert Winds Paint and Repair, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2024
Kennebec Painting provided an outstanding service. The painters were prompt, efficient, and the quality of their work is exceptional. They really went above and beyond to ensure I was satisfied.
Kennebec Painting
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2022
This is a great company! Cheaper than 3 other quotes including Lowes. Hard workers Finished our fence in record time. The owner also brought his wife who by the way was very knowledgeable and understood the female perspective I highly recommend this company. If I could give more that 5...
T&T Fencing LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2022
Shaun and Beth were wonderful to work with. They made a great painting team and did an excellent job with an entire inside house paint. Sonny and his guy did a great job on my two patios as well.
HYF Painting Services
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2021
You could not do better than Tony and Sebastian Shelby. They did spring cleanup, an enormous amount of leaves, power washed the deck, and painted all my flower boxes. The work was meticulous. They go above and beyond what is asked and respond to texts and phone calls quickly.
Pro-Mod Landscape Solutions
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2020
Mario was very pleasant but did have to reschedule appointment and then estimated cost for fence repair did not come until after done by another firm and price quoted was very, very much out of my budget.
Sierra Alta Fence, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2020
Daniel was very responsive and attentive to my house painting project. His entire crew did their work carefully. I was very satisfied with the results.
S&G Custom Painting, LLC
Request a quote

Find Fence painters in La Plata

No results for Fence painter in

Try adjusting your search criteria.

Fence Painting questions, answered by experts

Limewash and whitewash are two techniques used to give brick a light, matte finish, but they differ in composition, application, and permanence. The best choice depends on your aesthetic goals and the specific surface.

Composition

Limewash: A natural and environmentally friendly option made from limestone, water, and sometimes pigments. It is breathable and soaks into porous surfaces like brick.
Whitewash: Traditionally made from lime, water, chalk, and binders, but a similar look can be achieved with watered-down white paint. It is paint-based and sits on top of the surface.

Appearance and Finish

Limewash: Provides a natural, textured appearance that allows the brick's character to show through. It offers a more traditional finish.
Whitewash: Creates a softer, more opaque finish, often used for a rustic or shabby-chic style.

Application and Permanence

Limewash: Is semi-permanent and can be removed, making it a good choice if you might want to change the look in the future. It requires more skill to apply and cannot be used on previously painted brick.
Whitewash: Is a more permanent solution. It is more forgiving to apply and can be used on painted brick. However, because it sits on the surface, it can trap moisture.

Ultimately, if you want a breathable, natural, and reversible finish for unpainted brick, limewash is a great option. If you need a more permanent, opaque coating that can be applied over painted surfaces, whitewash is the better choice. Whitewashing may also be more economical, costing approximately $1.40 to $4.20 per square foot.

Rags used with oil-based stains are highly flammable and can spontaneously combust in the right conditions. To reduce the fire risk, throw them in a metal container after use and add rocks on top to secure them. Add an inch of water and seal the container. Take the rags in the container to a hazardous waste factory as soon as possible.

Acrylic latex paint is the best option to use on your outdoor wrought iron fence, because it holds up well against the elements. Use a high-quality, exterior-grade paint specifically designed for use on metal. You can choose between spray paint or regular liquid paint. As for primer, it's best to use an oil-based and rust inhibiting option before painting your wrought iron fence.

Select based on wood type, climate tolerance, and personal preference for color and finish, with choices like oil-based stains for longevity.

If it rains after you paint your fence, you may need to apply another coat of paint after the fence thoroughly dries. This will ensure a good seal if the rain weakened any areas of the paint. However, if your paint had enough time to dry thoroughly before it rained, you should have no problem.

The La Plata, NM homeowners’ guide to fence painting services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Deane Biermeier
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does Fence Painting Cost? [2026 Data]
Looking to give your fence a refresh? This guide explores the cost to stain a fence—and the cost to paint it, too— so you can budget for your project.
Timothy Moore
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Stain a Fence? [2026 Data]
Staining a fence is a great project if you’re a handy DIYer. Learn how much it costs to stain a fence and how you can influence the price.
Michelle Nati
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does a Hog Wire Fence Cost? [2026 Data]
This guide breaks down hog wire fence cost factors to help you budget for a rustic, trendy fence style at an affordable price.
Angi
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
Who to Hire for Fence Painting
Wondering who to hire to paint fences or who to call for fence painting? Explore pro options, the process, and what to expect before you book.
Gemma Johnstone
•
Jul 15, 2026Jul 15, 2026
9 Best Fence Paint Colors for Your Yard
Deciding on the best fence paint color is difficult. This guide will help you choose a shade that creates the right vibe alongside your house color and landscaping.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How to Paint a Chain Link Fence in 3 Steps
Increase your curb appeal by taking your chain link fence from dull to bold with fresh paint. Here’s how to paint a chain link fence to keep it looking great.