How to Paint Concrete Floors in the House
Watch gray concrete floors come to life when you apply your creativity and a few coats of paint. Make the whole concrete floor your canvas, or just paint a faux "rug" in a coordinating color. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Degreasers
- Masonry cleaners
- Trisodium phosphate
- Sandpaper
- Vacuum cleaner
- Cement filler
- Acrylic paint
- Primer
- Paint rollers and extenders
- Sealer
Instructions
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Lay out your design. Measure the exact dimensions of the space you'll be painting, and make your sketches to scale, for accuracy. Choose stencils or designs you want to use.
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Figure out how much paint and primer you'll need. Concrete is very absorbent, so take this into consideration when purchasing primer. Paint calculators are available online at dealer websites such as True Value (see Resources).
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3
Degrease the floor. Kitty litter is very absorbent and a good degreasing product. Rub it in, sweep it clean and follow up with a damp cloth. Allow it to fully dry before applying a masonry cleaner, such as Goof Off.
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Use a trisodium phosphate (TSP) treatment, following the manufacturer's instructions. Allow it to fully dry. This can take a few days.
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Sand down the uneven spots and vacuum the whole area. Use a cement filler to repair any holes or cracks (see Resources).
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Apply two coats of primer and allow to completely dry.
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Paint your floors with a roller, using a flat acrylic paint, in the design and color of your choice. Allow the paint to fully dry.
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Finish the job by rolling on a sealer (see Resources).
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Tips & Warnings
Check your concrete floor for moisture problems. If these aren't cleared up then it's best to wait. A damp floor will not hold paint. Always use ventilation with paint or cleaning products. Open windows. Step outside every few minutes to breathe fresh air.
