Whether it is a wall, floor, patio, or even a planter, the possibilities of painting concrete are endless. But first, you have to learn how to do it.
This beginner’s guide will walk you through the steps you need to take on that first project and build a foundation of skills for the next one. It will also provide a list of basic materials and answer some common questions.
So, are you ready to learn how to paint concrete? Let’s get started!
Things to Consider Before Painting Concrete
Before you are ready to start splashing paint around, there are a few very important factors to consider when approaching a project involving concrete. If you are familiar with paint projects, you have likely dealt with wood or drywall. Concrete is an entirely different material and should be treated as such.
This is a beginner’s guide to painting concrete, so you likely have no experience! So let’s learn more about concrete.
Concrete is Like a Sponge
Concrete is incredibly porous and will absorb a significant amount of moisture, even paint! For this reason, you must spend the appropriate amount of time prepping the concrete surface. It may even take longer to prepare than to paint.
While painting concrete is the exciting part of your project, you don’t want it to bubble, peel, or crack. Dedicating the proper time and effort to prepping the surface is worthwhile.
How to Select a Paint for Your Concrete Project
When choosing a paint for your concrete project, remember you should not select just any paint. Look for epoxy or masonry paint. Both are formulated specifically for concrete composition and are made to withstand wear and tear.
The Season Matters
The ideal time of year to paint outdoor concrete will vary based on region. A good rule of thumb is to consider late spring or early summer. Look for a stretch of dry weather. Rain is the enemy of this type of project. You should aim for low humidity and warm enough temperatures to fully dry and cure the paint.
So you’ve selected paint and picked the perfect sunny weekend to start…but hold on. You’re going to need a few more things!
Materials to Pick Up Before You Start
If this is your first time painting concrete, you probably don’t have many tools and supplies to get the job done. Use this list to pick up the basics. And don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations at your local hardware store or visit a reputable online resource like DIY Painting Tips.
Recommended Materials:
- Beginner Roller Kit: This kit will have all the basics to start your project.
- Extension Pole: Whether rolling paint onto a wall or floor, extenders allow you to reach further without much bending and stretching.
- Paint Brush: Look for a nylon-polyester blend for a durable, quality application.
How to Paint Concrete in 5 Steps
1. Prep
It seems counterintuitive, but prepping is the most critical step in the painting process. A well-prepared surface, especially one as particular as concrete, will ensure your hard work lasts and looks great.
First, you will want to clean the space you want to paint. Scrape away any existing paint, finish, or other layers. Using soap and water, scrub with a stiff bristle brush to loosen and remove debris.
If you can access one, use a pressure washer to finish up. Pay attention, especially to seams that fill with fine particles. If you do not have a pressure washer, spend extra time with the soapy brush to ensure the area is well-washed and rinsed.
Once the concrete has dried for about 24 hours, fill cracks and repair any crumbling spots. Be thorough and check edges, seams, and corners. This is important to prevent additional damage from occurring after you’ve finished painting.
Ensure the concrete is thoroughly dry after cleaning and repairing before beginning the following steps!
2. Prime
Priming before you paint is crucial in any project, especially with concrete. Select the proper primer for your job, one that is formulated for masonry or concrete. These primers are composed for the porous, moist nature of stone products and will ensure your paint bonds to the surface.
Once the surface is clean and dry, use a roller to roll out a thin primer layer. Use a brush to cover the edges or seams the roller cannot cleanly reach. Follow the instructions for dry-time and additional coats, which may vary from product to product.
3. Paint
How to paint concrete is why you’re here, but it is the most straightforward part of the process. As with the primer, you will select the proper paint product in a masonry or concrete formula. And because you definitely primed, you are already familiar with the process necessary to apply the paint.
Start with a roller to roll on the first coat of paint. Follow with a brush along any seams and edges. Allow to dry completely as per the product instructions, and plan to apply at least one more coat.
The primer will prevent the concrete from immediately absorbing all of the paint so that dry time will vary depending on the location and weather conditions if outside. If you are not sure, wait longer. You want to take your time with the paint and not end up with a sticky mess.
4. Seal
You have worked so hard to get this far. Do not skip this step and let all your effort go to waste. Sealing the painted – and now thoroughly dried – concrete is necessary. A properly applied sealant will protect the surface from drops, spills, weather, dirt, and debris. It will also increase the durability and longevity of the paint beneath it.
Selecting the proper sealant is, as you have probably guessed, critical. Like the products layered beneath it, it should be manufactured for use on concrete. If your project is located outside, take the added measure of choosing a sealant that is made for exteriors. You won’t regret it.
By this step, you have quite a bit of experience with the application process. To seal your fantastic concrete paint job, you will roll the sealant out and then brush the edges. Again, refer to the manufacturer’s label for specifics on drying, additional coats, and curing.
5. Show It Off!
Enjoy the new transformation but don’t just keep it to yourself! Be sure to show off your freshly painted concrete to friends and family. They are sure to be impressed with your DIY skills. And may even ask you for a few tips.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Paint Concrete
Do I really need to prime before painting concrete?
Yes! To achieve a smooth, painted finish, you must prime. A porous surface, like concrete, will absorb the primer, which creates a barrier for the paint to sit on. If you skip the primer, the concrete will absorb your paint instead.
Primer will fill and seal the concrete, preventing moisture from being trapped beneath the paint. If you see painted concrete starting to bubble or peel, you can be sure the painter did not prime it.
How do I maintain painted concrete?
Maintaining painted concrete is as easy as treating it gently. This means using a mild cleanser or simply soap and water. Also, be aware of sliding or dropping heavy items across the surface, which can scratch and damage the seal.
What is a moisture test, and do I need one before painting concrete?
A moisture test is critical to the success of your painted concrete project. It is also much easier to perform than you might think. As you know, concrete is a sponge. For your paint to be effective, the lower the moisture, the better.
There are meters and tests you can purchase. However, a simpler and cheaper option exists, tape. Yep, just a 2” square of clear tape. Stick it to your concrete and wait about 24 hours. You are good to go if no moisture drops or steam has accrued on the tape’s underside!
Wrapping Up a Beginner’s Guide on How to Paint Concrete
That’s it for the beginner’s guide on how to paint concrete. You should now be ready to collect materials and get started. Remember to spend ample time cleaning, prepping, and priming to lay the best possible foundation for your paint.
And don’t skip the sealant! Your freshly painted concrete needs that layer of protection, and after all the work you’ve done, it’s worth it.
Now that you have conquered how to paint concrete, find more tips and tools to inspire your next project at the DIY Painting Tips homepage.