Drive through Wayne, Ridgewood, Franklin Lakes or Glen Rock and you'll see plenty of brick colonials built with red and orange brick that can feel dated today. Limewash has become a popular way to soften that brick while keeping its texture and character. This guide covers how limewash compares with paint and German schmear, how it really wears, when we advise against it, and what affects the cost.
Why North Jersey Brick Homes Get Limewashed
Limewash softens strong red and orange tones into warmer whites, creams and grays, while the brick's texture and mortar lines still show through. Because it is a mineral coating that soaks into the masonry, it has a classic, aged look that suits colonials, Tudors and older homes across Bergen and Passaic Counties.
Limewash vs. Painting Brick vs. German Schmear
| Limewash | Paint | German Schmear | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breathability | Breathable mineral coating | Most paints form a film that can trap moisture | Mortar-based; breathability depends on the mix |
| Over time | Weathers gradually and softens | Can blister or peel if moisture is trapped | Durable; heavy coverage is permanent |
| Reversibility | Adjustable while fresh; softens naturally | Difficult to remove | Effectively permanent |
| Look | Soft, cloudy, brick texture visible | Solid, uniform color | Rustic, heavier texture, partial brick showing |
Durability and Maintenance — Honestly
Limewash doesn't peel the way paint can; it wears gradually. Walls that take the most sun and rain will soften first, and some homeowners like that patina. Expect occasional touch-ups or a refresh coat on exposed elevations over the years. Lifespan is affected by exposure, the condition and absorbency of the brick, the number of coats, and how well the surface was prepared.
Our Process and Critical Prep Checks
- Inspection: we check for existing paint, clear sealers or water repellents that would stop limewash from bonding.
- Mortar condition: cracked or failing mortar should be repaired first.
- Moisture: we look for active leaks, efflorescence and drainage problems.
- Cleaning and pre-wetting: the brick is cleaned and dampened so the lime cures properly.
- Application: multiple thin coats, brushed in, with the look adjusted while fresh.
When we advise not to limewash: if the brick is painted or sealed and the coating can't reasonably be removed, if there is an unresolved moisture problem, or if the look you want really calls for a solid color, we'll tell you — and suggest a better option.
What Affects the Cost
- Square footage of brick
- Brick and mortar condition
- Removal of existing coatings or sealers
- Access equipment such as scaffolding or lifts
- Color choice and number of coats
We don't publish set prices because these factors vary widely from house to house. Book a free estimate and we'll give you a written price after seeing your home.
Before & After
We don't yet have a completed exterior brick limewash project photographed for publication. The examples below are a real brick fireplace transformation and real interior limewash work, labeled honestly.
Brick fireplace before and after — finished in Palladino plaster (not limewash) — Wayne, NJ. 
Palladino plaster over brick, finished — Wayne, NJ. A plaster alternative when you want to cover the brick completely. 
Limewash: interior hallway in Creative White MC-748 — Franklin Lakes, NJ. 
Limewash: entry foyer — Glen Rock, NJ. Learn more on our limewash painting page, see limewash in Franklin Lakes, Ridgewood and Montclair, compare finishes in our Venetian plaster vs. Roman clay vs. limewash guide, or read our microcement shower cost guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any brick be limewashed?
No. Limewash needs clean, absorbent masonry. Brick that has been painted or sealed, or that has active moisture problems, usually isn't a good candidate until those issues are addressed — and sometimes we recommend not limewashing at all.
How long does limewash last on exterior brick?
Limewash weathers gradually rather than peeling. How fast depends on sun, rain exposure, the brick and the number of coats. Expect it to soften over time and to need occasional touch-ups or a refresh coat on exposed walls.
Is limewash better than painting brick?
Limewash is breathable, so moisture in the brick can escape. Conventional film-forming paint can trap moisture and may peel over time. Paint gives a solid, uniform color; limewash gives a softer, textured look.
What is the difference between limewash and German schmear?
Limewash is a thin mineral coating that soaks into the brick. German schmear is a mortar smear spread over the brick and partly wiped off, which covers more of the brick and creates a heavier, rustic texture.
Can limewash be removed?
Fresh limewash can often be partly washed back during application to adjust the look. Once cured, it isn't designed to be fully removed, though it will continue to soften with weathering.
Can you limewash a brick fireplace?
Yes, interior brick fireplaces are a common limewash project, after we check for soot, sealers or previous coatings. If you would rather cover the brick completely, a plaster finish is another option.
What affects the cost of limewashing brick?
Square footage, brick condition, removal of existing coatings, access equipment like scaffolding or lifts, and color choice all affect cost. We give a free written estimate after seeing the house.
Get a Free Estimate
Thinking about limewashing your brick? Text us photos of the house and we'll take a first look before we visit. Call (201) 701-8248, text us photos of the space, or book your free estimate online. Every estimate is free and in writing, with no obligation.
All Time Paint & Plaster Co.1581 Route 23 S, Suite 1, Wayne, NJ 07470NJ HIC #13VH10434100
Plaster & Specialty Finishes
Plaster & Specialty Finishes