Liven up a concrete floor with paint.
If you have a concrete floor in your garage or basement and aren't sure about covering it with carpet, tile or other flooring, consider painting it. You can paint concrete walls, too. Cover that dull gray with more attractive colors to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the room, and enjoy the benefit of easier-to-clean surfaces as well. The process has many steps and can be quite time-consuming, but you may find the benefits worth the extra effort.
Instructions
1. Fill a bucket with a mix of water and concrete cleaner or degreaser (follow the manufacturer’s directions), and use a push broom to work up the dirt and loose debris on a concrete floor; use a scrub brush on concrete walls. Rinse with water and allow all surfaces to dry thoroughly (this may take days).
2. Attempt to clean any stains using straight cleaner/degreaser, rinsing with water again and allowing the surface to dry completely once again. If the water beads on the surface of your concrete floor or walls, continue cleaning it and letting it dry.
3. Patch holes or cracks with concrete patch by following the manufacturer’s directions, remembering to smooth the product over rough surfaces. Allow the product sufficient drying time.
4. Seal your concrete with a sealer and then cover it with a primer, making sure your primer is compatible with your sealer (ask a professional if necessary). Apply both products with a paintbrush, roller or paint sprayer, following the manufacturer’s instructions and allowing to dry thoroughly.
5. Apply the paint in two to four thin layers using a paintbrush, roller or paint sprayer (a brush will likely be needed around windows or near baseboards). Allow the paint to dry between coats.
6. Seal the painted surface with another coat of sealer, if desired. This will help the paint last, especially if on a concrete floor.
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