What is Tadelakt Made of?

Tadelakt is primarily made of natural materials, primarily lime plaster, sand, and water. Here's a breakdown of its composition:

1. Lime Plaster: The main ingredient in Tadelakt is lime plaster, which is typically made from hydraulic lime or lime putty. Hydraulic lime is produced by heating limestone and then slaking it with water to create a lime putty. Lime putty is produced by slaking quicklime with water. Lime plaster forms the base of Tadelakt and provides its characteristic waterproof and durable properties.

2. Sand: Sand is mixed with lime plaster to provide texture and strength to the Tadelakt mixture. The sand used in Tadelakt is typically fine-grained and free of impurities to ensure a smooth and uniform finish.

3. Water: Water is used to mix the lime plaster and sand to create a workable Tadelakt mixture. The amount of water added can vary depending on the desired consistency and application technique.

4. Optional Additives: In some cases, Tadelakt may include additional additives such as natural pigments for coloration or organic materials like animal fats or soaps to enhance its waterproofing and polishing properties. These additives are typically used sparingly and chosen for their compatibility with the lime plaster base.

   Overall, Tadelakt is made from simple and natural ingredients, with lime plaster as the main component responsible for its unique properties. Its composition makes Tadelakt a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice for surfacing interior spaces, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits such as waterproofing and durability.