Specialist Service
Heritage & Breathable Coatings
Specialist application of limewash, casein distemper, Keim mineral silicate, and breathable masonry coatings for period properties across Hampstead and NW3.
20+
Years Experience
1,200+
Projects Completed
£10M
Public Liability
Same Day
Response Time
Why Homeowners Choose Our Heritage & Breathable Coatings
Pre-1919 buildings were constructed with flexible lime mortar and should only be decorated with breathable, vapour-permeable coatings. Standard modern acrylic and vinyl paints trap moisture within solid walls, leading to blown plaster, structural timber decay, and rapid paint failure. Our heritage coating specialists are trained in the application of traditional breathable systems: limewash (calcium hydroxide mixed with natural pigments) for internal lime plaster and external masonry; casein distemper and soft distemper for decorative internal ceilings and cornicing; and Keim Granital mineral silicate paint for exterior facades. Keim, developed in Bavaria in 1878, works through silicification — the liquid potassium silicate binder penetrates masonry and forms a permanent covalent chemical bond, turning the paint to stone. The result is a vapour-permeable finish with extraordinary UV resistance that can last decades without fading.
What’s Included
Limewash application (internal and external)
Casein and soft distemper
Keim mineral silicate paint
Earthborn Claypaint (EU Ecolabel, zero VOC)
Breathable masonry coatings
Listed building and conservation area compliant
Prevents moisture damage and blown plaster
Authentic period property aesthetics
Our Process
1
Moisture survey and substrate assessment
2
pH testing of existing plaster or masonry
3
Removal of any modern impermeable coatings (chemical stripping or steam)
4
Stabilisation of friable surfaces with Earthborn Wall Glaze or appropriate primer
5
Application of limewash in multiple thin wet coats (maintaining a wet edge)
6
Or application of Keim Granital primer followed by two finish coats
7
Final inspection in raking light to verify uniform coverage
Request a Quote
Tell us about your heritage & breathable coatings project and we’ll send a detailed quote within 24 hours.
Accreditations
Constructionline Gold
Verified as meeting rigorous standards for health, safety, and quality management in construction.
TrustMark Approved
Government-endorsed quality scheme for tradespeople, ensuring high standards of workmanship.
PDA Member
Member of the Painting & Decorating Association, the UK's professional body for painters and decorators.
Guild of Master Craftsmen
Member of the prestigious guild recognizing exceptional skill and dedication to craftsmanship.
Explore Local Service Pages
Jump straight into postcode-specific landing pages for the neighborhoods where this service is most requested.
NW3
Heritage & Breathable Coatings in Hampstead
Professional painting and decorating services in NW3 - Hampstead, Swiss Cottage, Belsize Park, and Primrose Hill. Our home base with 20+ years of local expertise.
NW5
Heritage & Breathable Coatings in Kentish Town & Tufnell Park
Professional painters in NW5 covering Kentish Town, Tufnell Park, Dartmouth Park, and Gospel Oak. Quality service at competitive prices.
N6
Heritage & Breathable Coatings in Highgate
Heritage painting specialists in N6 Highgate. Listed building expertise, conservation area approved, period property masters.
N5
Heritage & Breathable Coatings in Highbury
Trusted painters in N5 Highbury. Victorian and Edwardian property specialists with modern apartment experience.
Related Case Studies
See how this service performs on real projects across North London.
