Limecrete
Limecrete is a combination of natural hydraulic lime and lightweight aggregate such as sharp sand or glass fibres. This creates a breathable material which can be used as an alternative to concrete, in particular for floor slabs in the conversion of old buildings to modern standards - helping to deal with naturally occurring moisture. Limecrete can help to resolve design problems associated with older buildings and energy efficiency, while retaining a traditional character and aesthetic.
It is a 'breathable' material, which allows the transmission of water vapour. When used as a floor slab, this can help ensure that any rising damp does not affect breathable wall constructions.
Limecrete is often laid on a base of foamed glass beads rather than hardcore, without a damp proof membrane (DPM). This enhances the breathability of the slab, since hardcore can allow capillary action to draw up ground moisture. Foamed glass beads are the most common option since there are few other non-capillary substrate materials available.
Limecrete is relatively slow to set and absorbes CO2 during the drying process. It has a certain amount of flexibility compared to concrete. It is strong enough under compression to serve as a floor slab material, and can be strengthened by adding fibres and increasing the lime content. Care should be taken in mixing the materials however as excessive lime content can compromise breathability.
Underfloor heating can be used with limecrete.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
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.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
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.
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.
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.