Why breathable materials?
Traditional UK buildings (pre-1919 solid walls, heritage listed properties, lime-built structures) need materials that let moisture move through the wall. Seal them with cement, gypsum, or modern paint, and you trap damp inside. That leads to decay, mould, and expensive remedial work.
Breathable building covers lime mortar, lime render, lime plaster, breathable insulation, and compatible finishes. This site gathers the research, translates the jargon, and cites the primary sources so you can make informed decisions for your own project.
Sources we cite
- Historic England
- Building Research Establishment (BRE)
- Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB)
- British Standards (BS EN)
- gov.uk guidance
- Peer-reviewed journals
Browse by topic
Lime plaster
4 guides
Breathable internal wall finishes for heritage buildings. NHL hydraulic limes, lime putty, and when to use lime plaster instead of gypsum.
Lime render
3 guides
External wall rendering with breathable lime. Mix ratios, application technique, and protecting heritage masonry.
Lime mortar
4 guides
Lime mortar for repointing and building. NHL grades, mix ratios, and when to use lime mortar instead of cement.
Lime paint
2 guides
Breathable paint for lime-plastered and rendered walls. Limewash, mineral paint, and protecting historic finishes.