How long does whitewash keep?

[Post Carbon]

Hi all,

Maybe this is a dumb question, but thought I'd ask anyway, since I can't find anything on the Internet about it.

I'm looking to do 2 projects with whitewash, but the 2nd is a few weeks away. If I mix up too much, does whitewash keep well? Like paint? I have no experience with whitewash, and so am looking to get any advice from those of you who've mixed up and used it before.

I just don't want it to harden in the sealed bucket or something.

Thanks,

PCP

[springvalley]

We whitewash the inside of our dairy barn every couple years, but I`m thinking it may be something else than what you are using. This is a powder that is mixed with water and sprayed on, it is easy to wash back off. So not sure what your using it on but the stuff we use would wash off purdy darn quick if used outside. > Thanks Marc

[Post Carbon]

Originally Posted by springvalley

We whitewash the inside of our dairy barn every couple years, but I`m thinking it may be something else than what you are using. This is a powder that is mixed with water and sprayed on, it is easy to wash back off. So not sure what your using it on but the stuff we use would wash off purdy darn quick if used outside. >

I'm going to mix up lime, salt and water. I figure if it was good enough for Tom Sawyer's fence, it's good enough for me!

But I'm not worried about it washing off stuff. I want to know how long the leftovers will keep in a bucket.

Thanks.

[City Bound]

Is this a special lime you are using, or can a person make a lime wash from garden lime bought at the garden supply store?

[Post Carbon]

No, you have to use hydrated lime, not dolomite lime. I got mine from a building supply place. Plus rock salt.

[wogglebug]

Basic whitewash is made out of rocks, and will last about as long as rocks last. Seriously. If you've got a good seal over it, airtight and water tight, then forever. The bucket will break down before the whitewash does.