How to Finish Interior Concrete Floors
Concrete floors are the most common foundation for basements and garages. Although functional, the surface is not necessarily durable or attractive. An option for making the concrete look more appealing is to finish it with paint or stain. A properly applied finish ensures that the condition of the concrete is sealed. Paint and stains can endure scratches and spills and are relatively low-maintenance, making them a practical alternative to installing wood, tile or carpeting. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Garbage bag
- Tape
- Tarp
- Safety goggles
- Paint or concrete stain
- Tools for applying paint or stain (e.g. sprayers or rollers)
- Varnish or sealer
Instructions
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1
Cut open a plastic garbage bag and spread it over the floor. Tape it down on all sides and leave it for 24 hours.
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2
Remove the bag and inspect the concrete. If the floor is damp, then it has moisture seepage and cannot be stained without professional treatment.
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3
Clear the floor and cover nearby objects and surfaces with tarp or old sheets. Ventilate the work site as thoroughly as possible and wear safety goggles.
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4
Apply the paint or stain finish using the method according to the manufacturer's instructions. Certain products are sprayed, rolled or applied using other specialty tools. Paint will require at least two coats, while stain is dependent on how rich you want the concrete to appear.
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5
Leave the finish to cure for the waiting time shown on the product label. Once it has dried completely, apply a protective layer of concrete varnish or sealer. This may require as much as four to five layers depending on the product and your desired durability.
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Tips & Warnings
Paint that is specifically intended for concrete floors is available at hardware stores and home improvement centers.
Concrete stain merely provides a thick, protective layer that improves the color of the stain, but does not provide as much coverage as paint.
