Home Renovation-techniques On How To Paint Concrete Floors

Many garages or basement have concrete flooring. Concrete can be readily painted as compared to other high-end treatments. Painting your concrete flooring will not only make it prettier but also more durable and easier to clean. If painting is carried out correctly, your concrete floor can last for many years.

Where to begin:

Although it is not a very expensive aspect of your home renovation, it is not something that you can implement on an overnight basis either. In order to begin your painting project it is necessary for the floor to be thoroughly dry. Just in case you notice some wet spots, especially if it's from the basement, it is recommended that you consult a professional to correct that seepage problem first.

Once you are completely certain that your floor is already dry, next step is to scrub it in order to free it from chemical residues and greases. This is important especially if the floor is in your garage or shop area. This is critical because the paint would not be able to cling completely if there are any foreign materials present.

Actually, scrubbing the floor is a big step and if there is any type of grease on the floor, some kitty litter will absorb most of it. Next, scrub the floor using Goof Off and then rinse thoroughly. After wards, scrub the floor with the use of some TSP mixture; rinse and repeat several times until the mop looks clean after rinsing. After about three days of drying, the floor is now primed for painting.

Some final preparations before you start painting:

If there are any bumpy areas on the floor's surface or residue paint you will need to use a sander and some 80-grit paper to remove any old stuff that is stuck to the floor and make it smooth again. A tack clothe would also be helpful in removing some residue from the sanding that the vacuum could miss.

Look for and fix any cracks that might be present. Use Cement Fix-all to plug these cracks or little holes and be sure to let it dry thoroughly.

Now it is time to paint!

First you will need two applications of a stain blocker and primer like Kilz. These applications must dry completely in between applications. Now you may apply a top quality latex paint of your choosing. You may need a paint compressor or a roller to make a really fine painting job.

Applying the finishing touches on your newly-painted floor:

At this point, depending upon your preference, you may accessorize your floor by applying some faux stone or making geometric shapes. You may run wild with your creativity at this point, just make sure to let the floor dry completely before finishing.

Finishing your painted concrete floor:

You will need a quarter inch nap roller and two applications of Breakthrough sealer to finish your floor. This is full of fumes so a respirator mask is a must here. Allow the floor to thoroughly dry for one final time.

Now you have already finished your new floor. You may want to throw in an area rug or some decorative rugs for some highlight as it is still concrete after all. The difference is that it is now a beautiful concrete!