Lime Plasters cure by carbonation - a chemical reaction crucial to the lime plasters' hardening process. Once limestone is extracted from the earth, it is heated and becomes quicklime. It is then converted into calcium hydroxide (lime) thru the addition of a controlled amount of water (slaking). The process results in a refined white powder (hydrated lime). As the lime plaster (lime + aggregates + mineral admixtures) is applied onto the wall it cures and hardens. During the curing process the lime slowly absorbs carbon dioxide (CO2) and sequesters it indefinitly. The calcium hydroxide is then converted back to calcium carbonate or limestone. The lime cycle ultimately transforms an inert stone into lightweight architectural  finishes to which natural mineral pigments may be added. Once the carbonation process is complete - which can take several months - the whole process is reversible. The lime plaster can be heated and re-hydrated to be recycled and re-used to emulate various stone effects. (Read more about lime...)


Mold Prevention: A Natural Alternative.

Mold can grow on virtually any organic substance (e.g. paper, paint, insulation) when excessive moisture accumulates. Both human health and the integrity of building materials are compromised. It is generally preferable to design and maintain enclosures in ways that prevent moisture accumulation, and thereby control mold growth. For instance, surface-applied mold-resistant finishes provide an alternative, and there are certain applications such as in bathrooms where these finishes are preferable (e.g. eliminating grout lines). Care must be taken to ensure that finishes do not impair air indoor quality from the off-gassing of volatile organic coumponds (VOC). A durable and healthy solution is lime plaster. Its alkaline content inhibits the growth of mold and mildew. In fact livestock farming commonly uses hydrated lime as a disinfectant, providing a dry, alkaline environment in which bacteria do not readily multiply. (See bathroom projects)


Project Highlight: Mill Valley, CA.

Mediterranean Colors, LLC has partnered with Mc Donald Construction & Development (MCD) to be the sole plaster provider for the company's LEED  certifiable homes. MCD who built the first LEED-H Platinum custom home in Northern California (Margarido House) has selected ECO STUCCO not only for its sustainability, but also for its design flexibility. "We chose ECO STUCCO because we can provide our clients with a natural interior and exterior plaster in various finishes and a wide color range". said Michael Mc Donald. The most imminent project is just accross San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge in Mill Valley, California. 131 Hillside designed by owner/architect Scott Lee of acclaimed SB Architects is slated to be the first LEED-H certified home in Marin County. It is now completed. (See project gallery).