How to Paint a Design on Concrete

Use concrete paint to ensure your artwork lasts.

Whether for parking spots or advertising, you can paint on concrete if you have the right tools. If you paint on concrete with paint not designed for concrete, however, you will end up having to touch up the paint frequently -- a potential drain on both time and money. As such, though concrete paint may cost a little more, budgeting for it can save you time and money over an extended period.

Things You'll Need

• 80-grit sandpaper
• Broom and dustpan
• Concrete compound
• Bucket
• Degreaser
• Scrubbing brush
• Concrete paint
• Paint rollers
• Paint tray
• Acrylic-base masonry sealer
• Stain blocker (optional)

Instructions

1. Sand your concrete with 80-grit sandpaper if necessary to create an even surface that will hold your paint job. Sweep up any loose concrete with a broom and dustpan. Do not paint damaged concrete. Repair the concrete with a concrete compound and fill in cracks before painting. Follow the compound manufacturer's instructions for patching the concrete.

2. Fill a bucket with degreaser and water, then dip a brush into the degreaser-water mixture and scrub the concrete. Rinse the concrete well after cleaning it.

3. Paint your surface. Some outdoor concrete paint comes in a spray can, which means you won't need paintbrushes. If you need to cover a larger area, however, use paint rollers and pour the paint into a tray.

4. Follow the paint manufacturer's directions for drying time.

5. Apply acrylic-base masonry sealer if the concrete surface is inside your home. Some paints may have this sealer included in the paint or not require it; check the labels. Use a clean roller and tray, and apply multiple coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before you paint the next coat.

Tips & Warnings

• Test the paint on a small section of concrete to see what the finished color will look like before painting the whole surface.

• If you are painting outside check to ensure rain is not in the forecast for at least 48 hours to prevent ruining the paint job.

• If you plan to paint in a high-traffic area inside your home or garage, use stain blocker over your paint.

References

• Concrete Network: Concrete Painting -- Concrete Painting Tips, Photos and Ideas
• Elle Decor: How to Paint a Concrete Floor

Resources

• Construction Index: Concrete Floor Paint - Recommended Concrete Floor Paint and Manfacturers