Old buildings usually comprise of thick, solid walls with no cavity. Because of the way they are constructed moisture will most likely be present in some form. It is important moisture can escape and evaporate and not remain trapped by a film of paint. If modern paints are used on old walls damp can become an issue. Any ‘non breathable’ paint applied to a building will act as a film and will stop the building from breathing.

Most ‘modern’ paints are derived from petrochemicals which have a negative impact on both our health and our environment. We spend up to 80% of our lives inside buildings where up to 90% of the internal surface can be covered in some form of petrochemical coating.

Breathability is not only important for old buildings but just as important for new buildings and our health. Breathable paints absorb moisture and release it again when needed, maintaining a healthy environment acting like a natural humidifier

The clay in Earthborn Claypaint emits negative ions; higher ambient levels of negative ions are widely accepted as being beneficial to health and wellbeing, especially for allergy and asthma sufferers. Claypaint’s high clay content helps to destroy airborne odours and contaminants and with less static electricity build up, reduces dust and allergens.

At Blakeney Interiors we promote the use of natural paints for use in all our decorating projects. We are stockists of Earthborn paints, we love the fact that the paint range is eco-friendly. it is highly breathable with low environmental impact. Earthborn paint range is certified to EU Ecolabel standards. The EU Ecolabel identifies products that have reduced environmental impact throughout their lifecycle.

The fact that it is breathable it is ideal for all properties and can be painted over previously lime painted walls. It is virtually VOC free.

Besides Claypaint, Earthborn paints produce other environmental products, such as Lifestyle emulsion which is suited to high traffic areas because it is wipeable. For painting woodwork we suggest their Eggshell finish, again virtually VOC free and vegan friendly. Earthborn also have a paint for furniture called ‘Eco Chic’, which has a creamy clay base, finish with their furniture wax.

Earthborn also produce exterior masonry paints which are breathable. Ecopro Silicate Masonry paint is a highly durable mineral paint that dries to a classic matt finish. As it is breathable it offers an alternative to limed based and conventional coatings. Before applying the paint the surface needs to be primed with their Silicate primer. It can be used on stone, masonry, concrete, pebble dash, plaster and is especially suited to renovations. It is not suited for painting over existing conventional ‘plastic’ masonry paints.

In the same way we nourish our bodies with healthy food we should nourish our homes with healthy eco-friendly paint.

Allow your walls to breathe & feel better…