The typical problems
There are actually 2 typical problems with solid brick walls:
1. After 1 or 2 weeks of heavy rain moisture can appear on the inside.
2. When the temperature is dropping outside the masonry is getting really cold and if the wall is not insulated, you wind up with condensation and mould.
The Solution Step by Step
Step 1: Make your lime plaster waterproof
Yes, it’s possible, with breathable lime.
A live demonstration from Venice:
This waterproof lime plaster originates from an ancient recipe crafted by the Roman architect Marcus Vitruvius Polio. He honed this formula to construct seaside docks, Roman baths, and even to seal The Colosseum for simulated “sea battles.”
After extensive research, our Italian partner, Naldo Busato, Venetian Building Restoration Master, collaborated with the Polytechnic University of Milan. Together, they successfully replicated the original Roman recipe. The resulting building material is now known as Rinzaffo MGN Roman Waterproofing plaster.
This product has also garnered multiple awards in the UK.
Step 2: Insulating lime plaster for a warm wall, no mould, no condensation
Yes, it’s possible, with a breathable lime Super Insulator
We’ve got a solution to your chilly walls that’s different, simpler, and incredibly effective – the Aerogel Lime Plaster.
This award-winning blend of aerogel and lime is a super insulation option. It’s the secret to transforming the temperature in your home.
The beauty of this is that even a slight increase in thickness can significantly impact your wall’s surface temperature.
A warmer wall means saying goodbye to condensation and mould. We’re talking about adding as little as 5-10 mm of thickness.
After that, it’s easy to finish and achieve a smooth texture using a sponge float or by sanding it down.
When you need more insulation, you can increase the thickness of the second insulating layer to meet specific U-Value targets (which measures a wall’s insulating capacity).
For instance, achieving a U-Value of 0.5 would mean using 20mm of AeroGel-lime insulation. This level of 0.5 is commonly sought for heritage properties.
Step 3. Lime finish for mechanical protection, beauty and smoothness
The AeroGel-lime plaster delivers a smooth and pleasing finish, yet it’s quite soft. If you require additional durability or desire exceptional aesthetics, there are several finishing options to choose from:
Intonachino Arenino MGN
Traditional, coloured, smooth lime finish, comes in 24 colours. Suitable for internal or external use. Stable and weatherproof colours, ageing similarly to historical plasters, with enhanced decorative qualities over time.
Preparations
Going back to bare brick
If the wall isn’t damp and the old plaster is in good shape, there’s no need to remove it. Simply applying AeroGel insulating lime plaster on top can tackle any condensation or mould issues.
However, if you notice any signs of dampness, it’s highly advised to remove the old plaster. It might not be doing its job properly or could be the wrong type altogether.
Cement and gypsum plasters on older buildings can be especially troublesome:
Cement plasters tend to trap moisture behind them, creating an even more serious damp problem when water, like rain or rising damp, seeps into the building fabric.
Gypsum plasters, like Gypsum Multifinish, are quite sensitive and show unsightly patches even with a small amount of moisture.
When removing old plaster, it’s best to enlist experienced builders who handle the building fabric delicately. Cement can be stubborn and might pull bits of brick along with it, so a gentle approach is key.
