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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.

You may be wondering: can you paint cement? Fortunately, the answer is yes.

To change the color of your cinder blocks, you have two options. You can either paint them or stain them. Either way, you'll be able to choose from a wide range of color options. Some popular colors for cinder block painting include off-white shades and gray tones, which add a modern spin to the traditional gray blocks.

The best color to paint a brick fireplace comes down to personal taste. However, neutral colors—like white or gray—will open the space and create a bright modern look, making them popular options. However, choosing a bold color can turn your fireplace into a feature piece that will be the talk of all family gatherings. 

Knowing who to hire to install your fireplace is important when it comes to having a safe place to burn a fire in your home. The best person to contact for installing fireplaces is a mason or general contractor who has a National Fireplace Institute (NFI) specialist certification. If you’re installing wood paneling, then it’s a good idea to also find a pro who is Wood Energy Technology Transfer (WETT)-certified. 

Both of these certifications show that your pro is well-equipped to install fireplaces and inspect your home for the utmost safety.