Lime in Building Construction
Lime is truly a versatile material in the construction of buildings. It can be used in the construction of masonry systems as a component of mortar or of the masonry unit. Exterior (stucco) and interior plaster systems can also contain lime. Finally, decorative finishes can be created with lime washes.
Lime has been used in building construction for thousands of years to create durable mortar and plaster. Though lime putty was originally used for these applications, most modern applications utilize hydrated lime. Dolomitic Type S hydrated lime is preferred for applications in North America due to its exceptional water retention capability and proven performance.
Lime provides benefits to mortar and plaster in both the plastic and hardened state. In the plastic state, lime can enhance workability and water retention. In the hardened state, lime products react with carbon dioxide to regenerate calcium carbonate or limestone. This is a slow, gradual process that increases the hardness of the finished surface and allows for the closing of hairline cracks by a process called autogenous healing. Since initial strength is needed in most applications, additives such as gypsum, cement or pozzollans are mixed with lime in construction applications. Lime can react with pozzolanic materials in the mortar or plaster to produce a cement-like product. The strength of lime-based mixes can be modified according to the needs of the particular application. This is beneficial in restoration applications where low strengths and high vapor permeability are needed.