MOROCCAN TRADITIONAL HYDRAULIC LIME FINISH

TADELAKT

TADELAKT

TADELAKT is a typical Moroccan plaster finish obtained with genuine finely filtered aged hydraulic lime, calcareous aggregates, clays, and special binders. It has excellent filling power, and natural resistance to mold and bacteria. TADELAKT is suitable for interior and exterior surfaces, especially in a humid environment. Perfectly stable over time, it maintains the breathability of the substrate thanks to its outstanding water vapor permeability. The finish is lightly textured and matt. TADELAKT is supplied in white color (BIANCO). To tint TADELAKT, use oxide-based pigments or any other lime stable (alkali-resistant) colorant.

Elegant decorative stencil design with swirls and a central pink and blue pattern, ideal for lime-based paintings.

TADELAKT

Stack of cleaning cloths for wiping surfaces.

3 coats

Square meter measurement icon representing coverage area for lime-based painting by specialty contractors.

10-12 m² with a bucket of 20kg

Line drawing of a water drop with a curved shape.

Add water and mix

Illustration of a trowel used for applying lime-based paint

Stainless steel and PVC trowel

Quality assurance icon representing certified lime-based painting services by specialty contractors.

Decora Tinting System

Tadelakt: Moroccan Lime Plaster for Seamless, Water-Resistant Surfaces

Tadelakt is a traditional Moroccan lime plaster known for its smooth, stone-like surface and natural water resistance. Made from slaked lime and finished with a natural soap seal, it creates a seamless, softly polished finish ideal for wet zones and spa-style interiors.

Perfect for bathrooms, hammams, shower walls, and curved architectural forms, Tadelakt delivers both beauty and durability. Its handcrafted appearance and soft sheen evoke centuries-old techniques while meeting the needs of modern design.

Formulated with natural lime and applied without synthetic binders, this lime-based decorative coating supports moisture regulation and resists mold. Tadelakt is the preferred choice for those seeking a sculptural, waterproof finish that blends elegance with earth-friendly performance.

Tadelakt – Frequently Asked Questions

Tadelakt is a traditional Moroccan lime plaster known for its silky, waterproof surface and seamless aesthetic. Unlike typical lime finishes, it’s polished with a stone and sealed with natural soap, creating a smooth, slightly marbled effect with natural water resistance.

Tadelakt is ideal for bathrooms, showers, wet rooms, spa walls, and even basins. Its natural water-repellent properties make it perfect for high-humidity environments while adding a luxurious, handcrafted touch to interiors.

Yes. When properly applied and finished with a natural soap seal (like black olive soap), Tadelakt becomes water-repellent. While it is not as impermeable as synthetic coatings, it’s highly effective in wet zones with correct maintenance.

Tadelakt is applied in multiple coats using a trowel, then compacted and polished with a special stone. A soap solution is applied during the final stages to seal the surface and enhance water resistance, producing a soft gloss and organic finish.

Absolutely. Tadelakt is made from natural lime and contains no synthetic additives or VOCs. It remains breathable, antibacterial, and environmentally sustainable—ideal for green building and wellness-focused design.

Tadelakt: Traditional Moroccan Lime for Polished, Water-Resistant Surfaces

Available in 20kg bags with Decora’s warm sand-toned label, Tadelakt is a hydrated lime powder that transforms into a soft, polished finish when applied with traditional technique. It’s especially suited for wet zones, hammams, feature sinks, and sculpted surfaces where function meets timeless artistry.

TADELAKT SYSTEM includes:

  • DECORA FONDO – Primer to stabilise absorption and improve grip
  • INTOCALCE FINE – Optional base to smooth and level the substrate
  • TADELAKT – Traditional lime plaster mixed with water to create a spreadable, polishable mass
  • SAPONE DI MARSIGLIA – Natural olive soap used for the final waterproofing polish and mineral sheen

Tadelakt System Documents

Stack of cleaning cloths for wiping surfaces.
2 coats minimum (plus compression and polishing)
Diagram showing area measurement in square meters, highlighting specialty contractors and lime-based paintings.
Consumption: 1.5–2.5 kg/m² depending on surface profile
Minimalist trowel icon representing expert lime-based painting and finishing techniques by specialty contractors.
Stainless steel trowel, polishing stone or agate, natural sponge
Quality assurance icon representing certified lime-based painting services by specialty contractors.
Pigmentable with Decora Mineral Tinting System (earth tones recommended)

Tadelakt requires careful substrate control to avoid cracking and ensure water resistance. Surfaces must be stable, slightly absorbent, and free from synthetic coatings.

Recommended Surface Preparation for Tadelakt

SURFACE TYPEPREPARATION METHOD
Masonry or Lime-Cement Plaster1 coat of Decora Fondo, followed by Intocalce Fine if levelling is needed
Waterproof Zones (Showers, Basins) Apply mesh-reinforced Intocalce Medium, then proceed with Tadelakt
Curved or Sculpted FormsPrep with DOC PRIMER and a fine mortar layer to conform to shape
Complex Architectural SurfacesContact Decora’s technical team for project-specific solutions

 

Polished stainless steel trowel with red ergonomic handle branded by Decora, ideal for lime-based plaster application.

Use a stainless steel trowel for application and initial smoothing. Once partially set, polish with a natural agate stone or specialised burnishing tool to compress the surface. The final application of Sapone di Marsiglia creates a natural waterproof layer with soft sheen and tactile warmth.

Tadelakt’s beauty deepens with age, gaining patina and durability when properly cared for. Clean only with mild soap and water — never harsh chemicals. Occasional reapplication of olive soap helps maintain water resistance and a gentle satin glow.

Maintenance Guide | DECORA TADELAKT SYSTEM

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