LIME BASED FINISHES
Preservation and protection
of the world’s architectural heritage
Conservation and preservation mean to ensure the transfer of the knowledge
and the values of these works of art to the next generations, preserving
the original characteristics wanted by the artists.
Only through awareness of the need for preservation can this effort
receive the deserved attention in this modern society.
Every single restoration job undertaken by the Italian authorities is
a result of series of analysis of the substrates: from the diagnostic
tests to determine the reasons of the degradation of the initial construction
materials to the learning of the original building technologies and
procedures.
Specific solutions that can restore the building and preserve it in
the future can be elaborated only after detailed examinations.
This applies to the consolidation of foundations, to the defense against
rising damp and to the compatibility with original decoration of the
facades, mostly painted with delicate and vibrant lime colors.

rialto lime products are used in Italy in different
applications on restoration projects. To mention some of the most recognized:
reinforcement of old mortars with injections of Grassello di Calce and
Cocciopesto in some areas of the Colosseo in Rome.
Decoration with lime plasters in the Palazzo Boncompagni Ludovisi (now
Fendi Palace in Rome) in the Quirinale palace (seat of presidency of
the Italian Republic) and in the seat of Banca d’Italia (Bank
of Italy in Rome).
In the northern area we can find some lime RIALTO plasters in the Castello
Sforzesco in Milan, and some RIALTO lime stuccos in the Ca’ d’Oro
Palace over the Canal Grande, in Palazzo Grassi and Palazzo Manfrin
in Venice.
Less famous but not less interesting is the multitude of small historical
centers like Matera (Sassi di Matera, recognized and protected by UNESCO),
Palermo, Napoli and Catanzaro, where local authorities approved rialto
lime finishes for restoration of civic museums and palaces
of historical interest.

The rialto division of HARPO spa can
provide technical solutions and support to architects and organizations
involved in this fascinating activity worldwide.
The know-how developed in decades of experience in this field can be
shared with professionals who want to operate both in restoration and
creation of structures in full respect of nature and environment.
From stone back to stone
A material from the past
The mineral: river limestone
The furnace
- Production
- Fuel
- Firing
The lime cycle
- Slaking
- Seasoning
Formulation and production
Finishes application
Preservation of the architectural heritage
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