Building or renovating differently: the technical and ecological advantages of lime
Long overshadowed by cement, lime is making a remarkable comeback on construction and renovation sites. This is not just a passing trend: it is a sign of a profound change in practices in the sector. Today, we are building and renovating differently. We are looking for materials that are more sustainable, healthier and compatible with the challenges of energy performance and building preservation. In this context, lime offers simple, effective and versatile solutions.
For many years, BEAL International has been promoting the qualities of lime and offering it in its range of technical solutions for the building industry. True to this vision, we have worked on improving and expanding our range of hydraulic limes to make it even more comprehensive and perfectly suited to the various needs of the sector: new construction, restoration of old buildings and decorative finishes.
Lime, an ancient material that is more relevant than ever
Lime has been used in construction for thousands of years. It is made from limestone (a rock containing calcium carbonate) heated to very high temperatures in a kiln, a process called calcination. But there are good reasons why it is now back in the spotlight. Unlike some more modern binders, lime is permeable to water vapour: it allows walls to ‘breathe’, which helps to naturally regulate humidity in a building. The result is a healthier interior, without excessive condensation or mould.
It is also less rigid than cement, making it ideal for old structures or those subject to temperature variations. It allows the building to move without cracking, while ensuring good mechanical strength.
In summary, lime:
- regulates humidity;
- promotes a healthy indoor climate;
- respects old materials (brick, stone, wood, etc.);
- ages beautifully over time;
- is more environmentally friendly than traditional binders (less energy required for production, greater durability).
Air lime and hydraulic lime: what are the differences?
There are several types of lime, but the most commonly used outdoors is hydraulic lime. Unlike air lime, which hardens only in air, hydraulic lime also hardens on contact with water, making it more resistant and better suited to harsh climatic conditions.
It is therefore ideal for:
- exterior masonry;
- facade coatings;
- restoration of buildings exposed to the elements and temperature variations;
- and resistant decorative finishes.
Given its many technical qualities and diverse uses, hydraulic lime is a natural and versatile material that offers a wide range of possibilities.
A complete range designed for construction professionals
The BEAL CALCE® range is designed with this in mind: to offer a traditional material that is adapted to the current requirements of construction sites. Whether you are a craftsman or an architect, you will find a solution for all your needs. The strengths of our natural limes:
- Several levels of hydraulicity: NHL 3.5 or 5, to be chosen according to the function and exposure of the substrate.
- Powder formulas for customised mixtures, or ready-to-use solutions for greater ease of use.
- High resistance to impact, humidity and temperature variations.
- Products that do not alter old materials and can be tinted.
Good to know: all products are formulated in-house at BEAL International, which guarantees perfect quality control and complete traceability.
And what about practicality?
Another advantage of lime is its ease of use. It is easy to work with, whether by hand or machine, and can be used to create a wide variety of finishes: rough, trowelled, smooth, decorative, etc. It can be used in new construction, renovation or restoration of listed buildings.
In recent projects such as the restoration of the Walloon Parliament and the Royal Theatre in Namur, BEAL CALCE® lime was chosen precisely for its balance between technical performance and respect for the existing architecture.
Our extensive, enhanced and optimised range of BEAL CALCE® natural limes is available in its new version from 15 April 2025 at BEAL International in Fernelmont and through its network of approved distributors.
Whether you are a professional, curious or passionate about lime, now is the perfect time to rediscover this material with its many advantages.
For more information or advice on the right choice of lime for your project, contact our team or visit our showroom in Fernelmont.
