FAQs
Novacolor finishes are known for their depth, texture, and craftsmanship, and we know questions often come up when exploring materials like these. This page is here to provide clear, straightforward answers about Novacolor products and support in the United States. Whether you’re a designer, contractor, or finishing professional, these FAQs are designed to help you understand what to expect and how we can support your project.
about the materials
-
Lime plaster is a mineral-based finish made from natural lime rather than synthetic binders. Unlike paint, it creates depth and texture through movement and application, becoming part of the surface rather than sitting on top of it.
-
Novacolor combines Italian craftsmanship, advanced material science, and refined color development. The finishes are designed to deliver visual depth while supporting healthier indoor environments.
-
Many Novacolor Italia finishes are mineral-based and formulated with natural components, including lime. Product composition varies by collection, but sustainability and material integrity are core to the brand.
-
Yes. Lime-based finishes are naturally breathable, allowing moisture vapor to pass through the surface. This can support healthier wall systems when used appropriately.
-
Absolutely. While lime plaster has historic roots, Novacolor finishes are widely used in contemporary, minimalist, and modern interiors due to their versatility and refined appearance.
-
Yes. Novacolor products are manufactured in Italy and reflect a long tradition of Italian craftsmanship. Novacolor Near Me provides U.S.-based guidance, support, and coordination to make working with these materials accessible for projects in the United States.
care and longevity
-
Lime plaster is low maintenance. Regular dusting is usually sufficient, and cleaning methods depend on the specific finish and protective treatment used.
-
When properly applied and cared for, Novacolor finishes are long-lasting and designed to age gracefully rather than deteriorate.
-
The long-term performance of a lime-based finish is influenced by several factors, including surface preparation, application technique, environmental conditions, and ongoing care. Because lime finishes are natural and breathable, they respond to their surroundings rather than sealing them off. When properly specified, applied, and maintained, they perform beautifully and age with character over time.tem description
-
Yes. Many lime finishes develop subtle variation over time, which is often considered part of their character and appeal.
-
In many cases, yes. Repairs depend on the finish type and application technique, which is why professional evaluation is recommended.
use and application
-
Novacolor finishes are used across residential, commercial, and hospitality projects, including feature walls, lobbies, retail spaces, and private interiors. Finish selection should align with the environment and use.
-
Yes. Many mineral and lime-based finishes are well suited for kitchens and bathrooms due to their natural breathability, which allows moisture vapor to pass through the surface rather than becoming trapped. This can support healthier interior environments when finishes are properly specified. Product selection, protective treatments, and professional application are key to ensuring performance in these spaces.
-
Yes. These finishes are designed to be applied by trained professionals to ensure performance, durability, and the intended visual result.
-
Novacolor finishes are best considered early in the design phase, ideally during material selection and specification. Early conversations allow finishes to be aligned with design intent, performance needs, and project schedules, and help ensure the right products are specified from the start.
support and guidance
-
We support designers and architects through our Design Library, which includes digital color brochures along with Technical and Safety Data Sheets for all products. Physical brochures and samples are available upon request. Our team is available for phone or video consultations to help guide product selection, confirm specification alignment, and support project planning.
-
We support applicators by sourcing the nearest product distributor to help ensure materials arrive within the required project timeline. Phone or video consultations are available to provide guidance on product selection, specifications, and technical considerations throughout the project.
-
Yes. We assist interior designers and architects in sourcing experienced Novacolor Italia applicators to help ensure finishes are applied correctly and reflect the intended design intent.
-
Yes. We provide custom training programs tailored to your chosen products and team needs. Training is delivered either on-site, with our traveling to your project location, or in one of our studios.
-
Training options include professional contractor workshops with demonstrations or hands-on instruction, as well as presentations for architects and designers exploring innovative surface solutions. Select hands-on trainings and demonstrations are also offered at partner studios across the United States.
-
Yes. Novacolor Near Me is available before, during, and after your project for phone or video consultations, offering supply insight, technical guidance, and ongoing support for Novacolor Italia product lines.
health and environment
-
Many Novacolor finishes are low-odor and designed to support healthier indoor environments.
-
Many products are formulated with indoor air quality in mind, making them a strong option for projects prioritizing wellness.
-
Many Novacolor finishes are Indoor Air Comfort Gold certified, offering textured surfaces with low VOCs and cleaner indoor air. They are also compatible with certification systems such as LEED, WELL, and BREEAM, supporting modern sustainability and wellness goals.
-
Lime-based finishes are expressive, natural materials. Their beauty comes from variation, movement, and craftsmanship rather than uniformity, making them statement surfaces that balance visual impact with environmental care.
Our goal is to provide expert knowledge and guidance on the Novacolor Italia products you need to ensure your projects have the correct materials for aesthetics, durability, and reduced environmental impact. Thank you for considering Novacolor Italia for your projects.
Contact Us
Email Beth Schafer about your project needs.
About Beth Schafer
Beth Schafer has experience with both the application and sales of the Novacolor Italia line for over 25 years. Running a decorative effects application studio, The Inside Wall, allowed her to truly understand the specific needs and aesthetics of residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. She travels to industry conferences to teach on-trend finishes and color palettes as well as provide both on-site training to groups with specialized curriculum needs and training in the Novacolor Near Me studio facilities in Minneapolis.
Every project, large and small, is unique. Her goal is to source and provide the right Novacolor Italia products for you to achieve the aesthetics you desire.
SPECIALTIES: Novacolor Sales and Training, Application Specialist, and Creative Director.