How to Repair a Concrete Floor & Paint
Many inexperienced do-it-yourselfers are surprised to learn that horizontal concrete surfaces must be etched to encourage paint adhesion. While sandpaper is usually used to abrade surfaces like wood, plastic and fiberglass, concrete surfaces require something a bit stronger. If you need to repair and paint a concrete floor, you'll have to use an acid mixture to condition the floor to accept paint. Before you get started, you need to know the proper techniques and the order in which to employ them or you're likely to end up with disappointing results. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Muriatic acid kit for etching
- Razor blade
- Tube of concrete patch
- Caulking gun
- Broad metal putty knife
- 5-gallon bucket
- Paint roller cover
- Roller frame
- Roller extension poll
- Latex floor paint
Instructions
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1
Add water to the muriatic acid. Consult the labeling on the product for exact amounts and ratios.
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2
Spray the solution onto the cement floor using the spray nozzle included with the muriatic acid kit.
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3
Wait 15 minutes for the acid to etch the surface of the concrete floor.
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4
Rinse the solution with a water hose or as instructed by the labeling on the product. Allow the floor to dry before continuing.
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5
Cut the tip from the tube of concrete patch. Load the tube into the caulking gun.
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6
Fill all cracks and holes in the concrete floor with concrete patch using the caulking gun. Smooth the wet concrete patch using the broad metal putty knife. Work quickly before the concrete patch begins to dry. Allow one full day for the concrete patch to dry.
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7
Pour latex floor paint into the 5-gallon bucket. Fill it only about one-third its capacity.
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8
Attach the paint roller cover to the roller frame and screw the frame into the roller extension poll.
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9
Apply paint to the surface of the concrete floor using the roller. Begin painting in one far corner and work from left to right.
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10
Continue painting until the entire concrete floor is covered. Allow the floor to dry for two hours. Apply another coat if necessary.
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Tips & Warnings
Many amateur do-it-yourselfers have accidentally been trapped because he literally painted himself into a corner. Be sure to maintain your awareness as you paint or you may find yourself in a frustrating and embarrassing situation.
Never paint over a horizontal concrete surface without acid etching it first or the paint will blister and peel over time.
The instructions for muriatic acid kits vary from product to product. Always read the labeling on the kit you purchased thoroughly and follow the directions to the letter.
