Painting a cement foundation is not as simple as painting drywall or wood surfaces, especially when the cement has imperfections.
Cement, because it is highly porous and uneven, is a bit harder to paint than a smooth wall. However, using the right tools, applying some patience and using quality paint will make the project simple and easy. Painting a cement foundation that has some imperfections requires even more preparation than does painting smoother surfaces. A clean surface and paint specifically made for concrete, brick or cement are key. "Paint failure is generally a symptom of poor surface preparation," explains paint manufacturer Sherwin-Williams.
Instructions
Preparation
1. Patching cracks in the surface will help keep moisture from breaking down a cement foundation.
Repair cracks in the surface of the cement foundation with concrete patch. Large cracks might require attaching wire mesh to the foundation before applying the the patch. Allow the patch to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Clean the cement foundation with a pressure washer to remove cement dust, grease, dirt, silt, oils or old paint.
3. Scrubbing off oils and dirt will help the paint adhere more readily to the cement foundation.
Scrub the cement foundation with a degreaser such as a solution of trisodium phosphate (TSP). TSP solution is created by mixing one-fourth cup of TSP with one gallon of almost-hot water.
4. Use a scrub brush to get down into the crevasses of the cement foundation. Let the solution soak before rinsing with the pressure washer.
5. Allow the wall to completely dry. This might take several days, depending on the humidity or amount of ground moisture.
Painting
6. Apply a deep-penetrating sealer to the cement foundation using a thick-pile paint roller. You might need to get into deep crevasses with a paintbrush. Allow the sealer to dry thoroughly according the manufacturer's instructions.
7. Applying sealer and primer to the cement foundation leaves a well-prepared painting surface.
Primer the cement in the same manner as you did when applying the sealer. Allow it to dry thoroughly according the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Select a paint specifically made to coat cement surfaces.
9. Using a deep-pile paint roller will help get paint into the cement foundation's deep crevasses.
Paint the walls in the same manner as you did with the sealer and primer. "The best way to apply the paint is in thin layers; two to four should be enough," advises HomeImprovement.com.
10. Allow the paint to dry between coats.
Related posts
Painting a brick foundation wall can help improve its appearance.A building foundation usually is constructed out of brick or concrete to provide the maximum amount of durability and strength. Whi...
Painting cement steps is a way to smarten up a dull-looking finish. The cement must be fully cured and free of any cracks. Typically, concrete or cement that has cured for over six months can rece...
A coat of paint can enhance bare foundation walls.While concrete is a standard material for foundation walls, it can give the exterior of your home a stark, unfinished appearance. Painting your ex...
Paint stone that looks fake to improve its appearance.Cultured or cement stone was not always so realistic that it was difficult to distinguish from real stone, and not all "faux stone"...
Don't use a polyester brush on a stucco foundation.Many consider bare cement foundations to be an eyesore. A stucco aggregate adds texture to smooth cement, providing a more appealing appearance....
