Tadelakt lime plaster finish is a Moroccan plastering technique, the special lime plaster is applied by hand and compressed and polished with stones called “galet” (a small smooth rounded stone) and treated with a olive “wax” or soap also known as “black soap” to acquire its final appearance.
The results are a very compact and shiny plaster surface.This hydraulic lime material is not only used for
interior walls but may also be used for exterior stucco plaster walls,showers,and kitchen back splashes to name a few.
The traditional Moroccan wall finish, originating in the Marrakesh Region, is found in Hammams, the Moroccan steam baths, and in the riads of Marrakesh.
Rediscovered in the West, and imported by Stucco Italiano in Seattle, Tadelakt is appreciated for its durability and aesthetically pleasing exotic appearance.
The surface of Tadelakt changes in color tones depending on lighting conditions due to the refractive nature of lime,In fact after carbonization or carbonisation, lime crystals (tadelakt in its finished state) double refract, thus intensifying light,this quality means it also reflects heat,which is why it is often seen in Mediterranean countries ( as a wash or paint )
Color intensities may also be enhanced through application techniques akin to burnishing as in most venetian plaster.
Tadelakt produces an earthy, homely,living atmosphere, resistant to mold and mildew,tadelakt and lime plasters in general, create an anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and antiseptic living space,like all lime finishes Tadelakt also helps balance atmospheric moisture content,creating a healthy living environment.
Few decorative lime plasters have the look and feel of Tadelakt lime plaster ,often remarked upon as looking like leather or honed stone,Tadelakt hydraulic lime plaster creates a living, highly breathable yet hydrophobic, monolithic surface .
Heres a video from a recent project using Tadelakt as a texture medium
