How to Whitewash a Basement
Basements are often looked upon as the dark and dreary portion of a house to do laundry, store children’s bikes, collect cobwebs and set up a workbench. Whitewashing is a low-cost do-it-yourself project that can brighten the gloomy look and add to the beauty and cozy ambiance.
Things You Will Need
- Bucket
- Bleach
- Trisodium phosphate
- Rubber gloves
- Rags
- 10 pounds hydraulic lime
- 2 gallons water (for whitewash)
- 1/4 cup casein powder
- 1/2 cup sodium borate
- 3 pounds table salt
- Paintbrushes
Whitewashing not only enhances the area, but also reduces odors, maximizes absorption of the heat and makes the room appear larger.
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Prepare a 7-quart solution, using 1 part bleach to 3 parts water, in a bucket. Add 1-cup trisodium phosphate to the solution.
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Wash the basement walls with the cleaning solution and rags to remove any mold and mildew. Wear rubber gloves for protection. Let dry for a few days before whitewashing.
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Prepare the whitewash by combining hydraulic lime, water, casein powder, sodium borate and salt.
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Apply the whitewash to the walls, using vertical and horizontal strokes. Additional coats may be applied if needed. Allow to dry thoroughly between coats.
Warning
Paint dealers can offer an alternative to trisodium phosphate if it is not available in your area.
References
Writer Bio
Residing in New Jersey, Grace Restivo is an aspiring writer who has been writing online professionally since 2010. Her articles specialize in reading, writing, computers, gardening, crafting, music, cooking, nutrition, gerontology, adoption and resume writing.
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