Painting Concrete and Masonry Surfaces

Painting a concrete surface can really liven things up if done properly. Concrete and masonry surfaces have two different types of surfaces, smooth and porous. Each will take on a different type of process. Garage floors are different altogether and I have written a three part series on painting a garage floor. The purpose of this article will be for other types of masonry and concrete painted surfaces.

Items you will need to paint the concrete

Power Washer: This will remove flaking paint, mold and dirt which is important for correct adherence of primer and paint.

Brush: This you will need to cut out edging with and get where a roller cannot.

Roller: You will need a couple of covers and you will need the appropriate nap for the type of surface it is to be used on.

Primer/Sealer: Most masonry surfaces will need to be primed or sealed before you apply paint.

Paint: Use a high quality paint that is appropriate for the surface(floor paint for floors, exterior paint when outside, etc.)

Floor Texture: This is an additive that is stirred into the paint to provide a surface that is not so slippery.

Concrete Patch: Use a ready-mix concrete patch to repair any cracks that are in the surface.

Scraper: Used where you cannot use power washer to remove flaking paint.

Wire Brush: Use where you have to and cannot get with power washer.

Tri-Sodium Phosphate: AKA - TSP. Good for removing any grease or oils.

Scrub Brush And Handle : You will need a scrub brush with a pole type of handle to clean the surface with TSP.

5 Gal Bucket: Use for mixing the TSP with water.

Brush Cleaner: If using oil based paint and primer you will need mineral spirits or paint thinner to clean up equipment and tools.

Block will require a block filler which is a very thick primer that fills all the holes in the block. If it is outdoors you will need to power was first and allow it to dry.

Clean and Prep Concrete Surfaces for Painting

Power wash any surface you can removing dirt, grease mold or whatever may be on the surface using the TSP, scraping with the scraper and wire brush where needed. Then fill the cracks with the concrete patch.

Concrete or masonry surfaces should be sealed with a sealer before painting to keep moisture from coming through for this will cause bubbling and peeling. Primer should then be used for the paint to adhere properly. Block can be filled with block filler primer. Once this has been completed you are ready to paint.

Paint The Surface

High quality paint should be used and if it is a floor then floor paint should be used. Always use the appropriate product for the type of suface you are painting. The nap on the roller can vary fron 3/8 inch to 3/4 inch. #/8 for solid smooth surfaces and 3/4 for rough surfaces. Cut in all your edges first then roll. If a second coat is needed then apply a second coat. Always make sure the sufaces are dry when applying coats and wait the correct time before placing second coats down. It is a good idea to read the maufacturer labels first.