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 exterior foundation walls provides a quick and simple way of giving your home a face lift. Properly preparing your foundation walls will help ensure a lasting coat of color.
Instructions
1. Allow adequate time for new foundation walls to cure completely. Fresh concrete normally takes about 28 days to cure under warm, dry conditions. Painting your foundation walls before they have time to cure can cause your paint to streak, bubble and peel.
2. Clean your foundation walls. Depending on the extent of oil, grease and stains, you may need to rent a power washer to accomplish the job. If your foundation appears clean, you can scrub it by hand. Mix your tri-sodium phosphate, commonly called TSP, in a bucket of warm water. Follow the mixing instructions on the package. Use a large scrub brush to apply the TSP solution to your foundation walls. Scrub thoroughly to remove all traces of dirt and debris. Spray off the soapy residue with your garden hose. Allow your foundation walls at least 24 hours to dry.
3. Apply a latex primer labeled for use on masonry. Do this on a warm, dry day to ensure proper curing. Use a paint roller with a 3/8 inch nap to spread the primer over your clean, dry concrete. Overlap the edges of each stroke by about 2 to 3 inches to provide even coverage. Allow adequate time for your primer to dry, according to the label instructions.
4. Select a latex-based paint to cover your foundation walls. Use an exterior paint formulated for use on concrete and masonry materials. Apply your paint with your roller, using diagonal then vertical strokes to provide even coverage. Allow your first coat of paint time to dry. Depending on your brand of paint, you may need to wait a full day before you apply your second coat.
5. Spread your second coat of paint over the first coat, using your same diagonal and vertical strokes. Enjoy the refurbished look of your finished foundation walls.
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