The long-term beauty and performance of an Earthaus Tadelakt Finish depend on both installer methods and owner care/maintenance. Proper upkeep preserves the finish's water-repellent qualities and aesthetic surface.
This article is a summary of the official Earthaus Tadelakt Care and Maintenance Guide, adapted for clarity and ease of reference. Download the full Tadelakt Care & Maintenance Guide (PDF).
Note: Earthaus cannot guarantee finish outcomes once installed; responsibility lies with ongoing care.
Routine Care
Cleaning:
Use a gentle, plant-based diluted soap for routine cleaning.
Avoid cleaning products with chemical or acidic ingredients, as they can damage the finish.
Recommended: Earthaus Olive Oil Soap Sealer.
How to clean:
Dilute 5 parts warm water to 1 part Olive Oil Soap Sealer.
Wipe the surface gently with a non-abrasive cloth.
Rinsing is not necessary.
Clean monthly at minimum. The surface can be cleaned more frequently as needed without harm.
Upkeep:
Apply Beeswax Protective Sealer at least annually.
Maintain a bead of clear silicone caulk at joints between Tadelakt and other materials.
Damage Types: Risks & Repair
1. Etching:
Caused by acidic or chemical substances dissolving the natural soap seal.
Appears as sandy rough spots contrasting with the smooth finish.
Preventive care: immediately wipe away risky substances with a damp cloth.
Repair: Etched areas lose both function and aesthetics. Patching is required if water-repellency is important.
2. Staining:
Appears as discoloration of the finish.
Preventive care: immediately wipe spills with a wet cloth.
Repair:
Avoid using water or soap first.
Attempt dry removal: lightly scrub with a mildly abrasive cloth.
If unsuccessful, use diluted gentle soap and scrub gently.
Normal discoloration: Tadelakt often darkens in areas of heavy water exposure, then lightens again as it dries. Ensure maintenance with annual waxing and silicone caulk at joints.
3. Cracking:
Hairline cracking:
Fine, linear cracks developing over time.
May indicate substrate movement but usually does not affect water-repellency.
Repair: Evaluate hairline cracks with a Tadelakt expert to confirm whether function is compromised.
Normal microfissures: Extremely fine, web-like cracks unique to authentic Tadelakt. They do not affect water-repellency.
4. Chipping / nicking:
Caused by blunt force impact.
Compromises both the water-repellent seal and surface aesthetics.
Repair: Requires patching. Patches may be visually noticeable depending on skill.
5. Mold:
Poorly finished areas may trap substances and allow mold growth.
Repair:
Spray 3% hydrogen peroxide on the affected area until saturated.
Let sit 10 minutes.
Scrub with a toothbrush.
Let the surface dry completely.
Apply 1 coat Olive Oil Soap Sealer.
Allow to dry, then apply 2 coats Beeswax Protective Sealer.
Wait 24 hours before water exposure.
Patching
Small patching may be possible for stains, etching, nicks, or chips.
Large damaged areas may require complete re-finishing for visual continuity.
Consult a professional plasterer for patching work.
Project Consultation
Earthaus offers technical consultation with experts for project-specific questions.
Questions? Email [email protected] or text 1-800-917-2414.