Wood is a living element. When it needs moisture it absorbs it from its surroundings, and when it has too much, it releases it back outside. In addition, depending on the temperature, it contracts and expands. Because of these characteristics, protective wood treatments must allow it to carry out its regulating functions. This is not the case with synthetic varnishes and protectors. When applied to wood, these products create a surface layer that isolates it completely from the outside.
3 types of natural paints / finishes- Silicate-based paints: these are usually obtained through a process of melting recycled glass. Their most notable characteristic is their durability, which makes them suitable for exterior and interior use, and although their composition has evolved, there are façades still preserved painted with silicate paint since the late nineteenth century. They are also completely waterproof, which makes them suitable for bathrooms and kitchens, and at the same time breathable, so the natural flow of water vapour is not restricted.
- Lime-based paints: these are usually made up of a powdered limewash obtained by mixing hydraulic lime and natural inorganic additives. This is a paint suited above all to interiors, although it is also used for exteriors in the case of restorations. It provides a high-purity white and allows the addition of specific natural inorganic pigments to obtain a wide colour palette. It is completely breathable, aseptic, bactericidal and fungicidal.
- Clay-based paints: because of the name, people tend to imagine them brown or ochre, but as they are made up above all of natural white clay, marble sands and plant-based casein, their characteristic colour is white. Of course they accept the addition of mineral pigments to obtain the desired colour palette. Their most suitable use is in interiors and, as a curiosity, they accept the addition of natural scents.
