Hey fellow green living enthusiasts! 
I’ve recently embarked on a journey to make my home more eco-friendly, starting with the walls. I’ve been experimenting with natural paints, specifically Earthborn Claypaint, and I’m curious about your experiences. Have you found that natural paint finishes hold up as well as conventional ones over time?
In my living room, I used Earthborn for its breathability and low VOC content, which was a game-changer for air quality. The application was smooth, and the finish is beautifully matte, but I’m wondering about its durability, especially in high-traffic areas. Previously, I tried Auro Natural Paints in the bathroom, and while the color was vibrant, I noticed some wear after a year. This got me thinking about surface compatibility and whether certain natural paints are better suited for specific areas of the home.
I’m also curious about the environmental impact of more frequent touch-ups or repaints. Does opting for natural paints mean we might need to repaint more often, and how does that balance out in terms of sustainability? Let’s discuss your experiences with natural paint durability, any brands you swear by, and tips for maintaining these eco-friendly finishes. Looking forward to your insights!
I’ve been using Earthborn Claypaint in my home for about two years now, and I must say, the durability has been impressive, especially in the living room and bedrooms. The key, I found, is in the preparation of the walls. Ensuring they’re clean and primed properly makes a huge difference. I haven’t noticed any significant wear in high-traffic areas, which is a relief. However, I did opt for a slightly darker shade in the hallway to mask any potential scuffs. It’s all about choosing the right product for the right space!
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Interesting topic! I’ve been curious about natural paints myself. @GreenThumb88, do you think the durability of Earthborn Claypaint would hold up in a kitchen environment? I’m concerned about moisture and grease affecting the finish.
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@SandyShorelines, great question! I haven’t used it in the kitchen myself, but I’ve heard from others that it does require more maintenance in high-moisture areas. Some recommend using a natural wax or sealant over the paint to enhance its durability against moisture and grease. It might be worth experimenting with a small area first to see how it holds up.
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I’ve had a mixed experience with natural paints. While I love the eco-friendly aspect, I’ve found that Auro Natural Paints didn’t quite meet my durability expectations in the bathroom, similar to your experience, @EcoPainterJane. I’ve since switched to Biofa, and the difference is night and day. It’s been over a year, and the finish still looks as good as new, even with the humidity. It’s a bit pricier, but for me, it’s worth the investment for both durability and peace of mind regarding environmental impact.
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@EcoWarrior123, thanks for sharing your experience with Biofa. I’ve been considering trying it out for my next project. Do you have any tips for application, especially in high-humidity areas like bathrooms?
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@EcoPainterJane, absolutely! The key with Biofa is to ensure the surface is completely dry before application, which can be a challenge in bathrooms. I used a dehumidifier for a couple of days before painting and made sure to apply two thin coats rather than one thick one. This helped the paint adhere better and dry more evenly, reducing the risk of peeling or bubbling over time. Also, don’t skimp on the ventilation during and after painting to help with the drying process.
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Has anyone tried Lime Paint for exterior walls? I’m renovating an old cottage and am curious about its durability against weather elements. I love the idea of using something so natural, but I’m worried it might not stand up to the harsh winters here.
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@LeafyDreams, I’ve used Lime Paint on my cottage, and it’s been fantastic! It’s breathable, which is perfect for old stone walls, and it has a unique, weathered look that adds character. As for durability, it’s held up well against rain and frost, but I did apply a natural silicate-based sealer to enhance its weather resistance. Just be prepared for the color to mellow over time, which I personally love, but it’s something to keep in mind.
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I’ve also been using Earthborn Claypaint, and I agree that wall prep is crucial. I went a step further and used their primer before applying the paint, and it’s held up really well in my kitchen, which sees a lot of action. The matte finish does a great job of hiding imperfections, but I did notice that it’s a bit more challenging to clean compared to conventional paints. Have you found any effective cleaning methods that don’t compromise the paint’s integrity?
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Interesting point about the darker shades in high-traffic areas. I went with a lighter shade for my hallway and regret it a bit now due to the visible scuffs. I’m considering repainting with a darker tone. On another note, has anyone tried mixing natural paints with conventional ones to maybe get the best of both worlds? I’m curious about the environmental impact and durability of such a mix.
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