Lime plaster: climate benefits and energy efficiency
Sustainability and respect for the environment are central issues today, and it is from this perspective that lime plaster represents an interesting choice for those looking for eco-compatible solutions for their residence or commercial buildings. Lime’s positive contribution to the climate makes lime plaster a simultaneously ancient and innovative building material.
History and resilience of lime plaster
Lime plaster has a thousand-year history. Used since ancient times for its notable properties of durability and resistance to atmospheric agents, this natural material is mainly composed of slaked lime, water and aggregates such as sand or ash. Its ability to “fix” small cracks on its own, through a chemical process known as carbonation, makes it a long-lasting, low-maintenance building solution.
Lime plaster’s climatic benefits
Carbon footprint reduction
Lime plaster contributes significantly to reducing the carbon footprint of buildings. This material absorbs CO2 during the curing process. Such absorption partially offsets the CO2 emissions generated by the material’s production, making its carbon balance more favourable.
Improvement of indoor air quality
Thanks to its porosity, lime plaster is able to regulate internal humidity, absorbing excess moisture and releasing it when the air dries. This helps maintain a healthy internal environment, preventing the formation of mould and improving air quality – two key aspects for the well-being of a residence and the health of its occupants.
Sunlight reflection
The natural brightness of lime plaster, especially in its lighter shades, reflects sunlight, which helps to keep interiors cool in buildings exposed to direct sunlight. This albedo effect can significantly reduce the need for artificial cooling during the warmer months.
Applications in furniture and design
In addition to climate and energy benefits, lime plaster offers aesthetic versatility for designers and architects. Its natural texture and colour convey a sense of warmth and authenticity to interior spaces, blending perfectly with both modern styles and more traditional contexts. The possibility of customising the plaster with natural pigments allows further creative freedom, making it suitable for any type of environment.
Ideal Work’s lime system
Ideal Work’s Terrae – Calce products, such as Terrae-Calce Siena, Terrae-Calce Venezia, and Terrae-Calce Matera, constitute a perfect balance between innovative aesthetics and environmental responsibility. Each of these lines is inspired by the uniqueness and beauty of specific Italian locations, and provides finishes that not only make spaces beautiful and refined, but also contribute significantly to the energy efficiency and sustainability of buildings.
Energy and environmental benefits of Terrae products
1. Breathability and humidity control: Terrae-Calce finishes have excellent hygroscopic properties, which means that they are capable of absorbing and releasing humidity, thus maintaining a comfortable internal environment and reducing the risk of mould and mildew formation. This aspect contributes not only to improving indoor air quality but also to promoting a healthy living climate, reducing asthma and allergies.
2. Environmental impact reduction: Ideal Work’s approach to lime production emphasises the efficient use of resources and the minimisation of environmental impact. Lime is fired at lower temperatures than other materials, which results in reduced CO2 emissions. Furthermore, the lime carbonation process allows part of the released carbon dioxide to be reabsorbed, acting as a natural carbon reservoir.
3. Waste recovery: the production of Terrae-Calce products highlights the importance of waste recovery through the use of natural aggregates such as rice husk and hemp chipboard. This approach not only valorises materials otherwise considered waste but also contributes to reducing the overall environmental impact.
Ideal Work is innovation
Ideal Work’s Terrae line represent an excellent example of how innovation in the construction sector can go hand in hand with environmental sustainability and energy efficiency. The adoption of these products not only aesthetically enriches living and working spaces but plays a crucial role in promoting a more sustainable future for our planet.