How to Put a Slick Finish on Concrete

You must etch concrete floors before applying a slick finish.

You can enhance the look of ordinary, drab concrete surfaces by coating them with a slick epoxy finish. Unfortunately, concrete will not accept epoxy unless it is pretreated. If you are working with rough vertical concrete surfaces, like walls, you can prepare them by applying a simple coat of primer. If you are finishing horizontal concrete surfaces like those found in basements, patios and garages, you must employ a harsher preparation strategy, or you will ultimately see significant paint failure.

Things You'll Need

• Water-based degreaser
• Coarse plastic brush
• Garden hose
• Mop and bucket
• Acid-resistant gloves
• Rubber boots
• Splash-guard goggles
• Respirator with acid-grade filter
• Vinyl-coated overalls
• Muriatic acid etching kit
• 5-gallon bucket
• Roller frame
• Acrylic latex primer
• Nap roller cover
• 2-part epoxy paint
• Wooden stir stick
• Shed-resistant roller cover
• Roller extension pole

Instructions

1. Eliminate any oily and greasy stains, using a water-based degreasing agent and a coarse brush. Rinse exterior concrete with a garden hose. Use a mop and bucket if the concrete is located indoors.

2. Put on safety gear if you are using a muriatic acid etching kit. Proper gear includes vinyl-coated overalls, rubber boots, splash-guard goggles, acid-resistant gloves and a respirator with an acid-grade filter.

3. Etch horizontal concrete with a muriatic acid etching kit. Consult the directions included with your kit for the manufacturer's exact application procedures. Skip this step if you are finishing a vertical concrete surface.

4. Coat vertical concrete surfaces with an acrylic latex primer, using a roller stocked with a nap roller cover and affixed to a roller extension pole. Wait two hours for the primer to dry.

5. Wash the roller with water.

6. Mix the two-part epoxy paint -- resin and a catalyst -- in a plastic 5-gallon bucket. Stir for five full minutes with a wooden stir stick.

7. Apply the epoxy paint to the vertical or horizontal concrete surface, using a roller stocked with a shed-resistant roller cover and affixed to a roller extension pole. Wait six hours for the slick epoxy coating to dry and cure.

Tips & Warnings

• Muriatic acid etching kits are available in a variety of styles. Follow the specific instructions included with the kit you purchased.

• Muriatic acid can cause serious injuries. Always wear the appropriate safety gear. Consult the safety guide included with your kit for exact requirements.

Resources

• Popular Mechanics: Five Pro Painting Tips Every Amateur Should Know