Hydrated lime
Short Guide, Lime Mortars in Traditional Buildings, published on 1 March 2013 by Historic Scotland, defines hydrated lime as: ‘Powdered lime formed from the slaking (addition of water) of quicklime. This term may be used in reference to hydraulic limes or air limes, but is typically used for the latter.’
Short Guide: Traditional Scottish Brickwork, published, on 1 March 2014 by Historic Environment Scotland, suggests that hydrated Lime: ‘Commonly used to describe non-hydraulic lime powder which is used in modern cement/lime/sand mortars. It is important to distinguish between this and hydraulic Lime which is the material most commonly used in lime mortar mixes in repair work.’
Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) definition online Glossary : Hydrated lime or dry hydrate
'Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) formed as a dry powder when any lime is slaked using an exact amount of water (cf lime putty). Not to be confused with hydraulic lime. It is possible to obtain hydrated hydraulic lime or hydrated non-hydraulic lime.'
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Guide to ISO 19650 for Architecture Firms (2026)
A user gives their low down.
A UK training and membership provider for mould remediation professionals.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
Independent NSI and BAFE study exploring how organisations are changing the way they buy fire safety services.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.

















