How to Apply Epoxy Concrete Floor Paint

Applying epoxy concrete floor paint to your garage or basement floor can be a worthwhile project for several reasons. It will look better, form a non-slip surface, seal pores, and improve durability from dirt and spills. Reasons for finishing your concrete floors are easy to come by however completing the application is the hard part. This guide will walk you through the basic steps and show you how to apply epoxy concrete floor paint to your surface yourself.

Instructions

1. Prepare your concrete slab for the application of epoxy floor paint by thoroughly cleaning your surface. There should be no dust, dirt, oil, or chemicals present at all and the surface must be completely dry. If your floor has been used for some time it may benefit you to resurface your concrete floor or concrete slab and then cleaning with a high pressured water spray before applying the epoxy floor paint to ensure a lasting bonded surface. Always allow the surface to completely dry after using any liquids on it during the preparation and cleaning process.

2. Fill in cracks that exist in your concrete slab. Once your floor is dry from the cleaning painstakingly fill in and repair the cracks so that the epoxy paint can have a smooth surface to sit upon. As in step one, the better the surface condition is before the application of the floor paint, the better the final result will be.

3. Choose your epoxy concrete floor paint based on your individual needs and financial situation. There are solvent free epoxies which offer less fumes and faster application as they do not shrink during the drying process. Solvent free epoxies however typically cost more and harden very fast so choose a solvent epoxy if either keeping costs low area priority for you or you are novice enough to require a longer time to apply your epoxy coatings. If you are having trouble deciding which epoxy to choose you can always speak to a professional and get personalized guidance.

4. Wear a high grade breathing mask for the application process especially if you are applying solvent epoxy. Gloves, rubber boots, goggles and any other safety devices recommended by your epoxy manufacturer should be adhered to as well.

5. Apply an even coat of epoxy concrete floor paint to your surface and brush into the concrete in small even circles. You will likely want to apply a couple coats at least to ensure an adequately thick layer of dried and cured epoxy floor paint. Be careful not to leave brush marks in your concrete floor paint if you want an even coat. Brush marks in your floor paint are usually indicative of an amateur application job.

6. Give your epoxy concrete floor paint a lengthy time to cure and set in before using the surface. The paint job is meant to leave a lasting durable and easily cleanable surface for many years of use. Do not rush the process. Assuming enough care is given to the job your epoxy painted floor will both look great and last for a long time to come.