Primer facts

Product: Dalray Limewash Primer: a powdered mineral prep coat

Mixed volume: Approximately 4L; mix with water as directed on the primer packaging

Purpose: Regulates surface suction and improves the foundation for limewash

Application: Brush or roller

Finish: Matte mineral surface, ready for limewash once fully dry

Unlike acrylic primers, this mineral prep coat does not form a film. It penetrates the surface and dries to a matte, chalky mineral finish, allowing limewash to bond and carbonate naturally. It helps regulate suction and reduce powdering.

Mix with water as directed on the primer packaging and apply evenly by brush or roller. Ensure the primer is fully dry before applying limewash.

When to use

Use on previously painted surfaces, variable-porosity masonry, render or cement sheet, and over suitable water-based undercoats where additional mineral preparation is needed.

  • Painted walls: Mineral primer helps regulate suction and improve bonding. Where sealing or colour control is also needed, use a suitable water-based undercoat first.
  • Fibre cement: Dalray Limewash Primer is recommended. A water-based undercoat is not required unless colour blocking is needed.
  • Raw, absorbent brick and render: Primer is generally not required; limewash coverage is usually lower on these surfaces. Mineral primer may help where porosity varies.
  • Other masonry or mixed substrates: Primer is recommended to improve consistency and suction control.
When an undercoat is also needed

On new or patched plasterboard, apply two coats of water-based acrylic undercoat before Dalray Limewash Primer. On particularly dark or strong colours, apply one to two coats of water-based acrylic undercoat for colour neutralisation.

What this primer does not do

Dalray Limewash Primer is not a stain blocker or a plasterboard sealer. It does not replace an acrylic or stain-blocking primer where those functions are required.

The application guide does not recommend oil-based, glossy or strong sealing primers as a general base for limewash, because they restrict breathability and may affect adhesion. If stain blocking or specialist preparation is needed, contact Dalray for advice on the complete system.

Preparation and finish expectations

Surfaces must be clean, dry, sound and free from dust, oils and loose material. Repair cracks where required. Glossy or fully sealed surfaces need suitable preparation before application.

The finished limewash appearance varies with the surface, lighting, primer, dilution, application technique and curing conditions. Subtle colour differences, a slightly chalky feel and light surface transfer are natural characteristics, particularly during curing. Mineral primer can help reduce surface transfer but does not turn limewash into a sealed acrylic paint film.

Test a small area first and do not skip recommended preparation. See the full application and surface guide.

Shipping

We offer free shipping Australia-wide on orders over $59.95. Orders are dispatched within 1–3 business days, with tracking provided once shipped.

See Shipping & Returns for delivery information, or contact Dalray for surface preparation advice.

Product information and safety

When mixing and applying, use appropriate protective equipment including a mask and gloves, and ensure adequate ventilation. Avoid inhaling lime dust and keep out of reach of children.

As with all decorative finishes, proper surface preparation and application are essential to achieving the best result.

To the extent permitted by law, Dalray’s liability is limited to replacement of the product or refund of the purchase price. See our terms and conditions and safety data for more details.

FAQs

Need advice about your surface? Contact Dalray.

Is Dalray Limewash Primer supplied as a powder?

Yes. Mix it with water according to the primer packaging directions. One pack makes approximately 4L.

Can Dalray Limewash Primer seal new plasterboard?

No. Apply two coats of water-based acrylic undercoat first, then Dalray Limewash Primer.

Can it block stains or strong colour bleed?

No. Use the appropriate undercoat or stain-blocking system for those requirements before applying the mineral prep coat.

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