If you're looking for the best concrete paint, you've come to the right place. You'll want to think about more
than simply the colour and finish. Various projects may necessitate the use of
special concrete paint, such as painting concrete or cement surfaces in your
garage, basement, or backyard. A fresh coat of paint can transform these spaces
and add an unexpected flash of colour to an otherwise inconspicuous space,
depending on the colour you pick.
Of course, whenever you're painting a
non-traditional surface, you'll want to be sure you're using the correct paint.
You'll want a paint that's designed for use on concrete in this scenario but
bear in mind that the best concrete paint will nearly always work on cement
surfaces as well (though you might want to ask the store associate when you
place your order, just in case).
Here's how to choose the correct concrete
paint for the job, as well as some recommendations for getting the best results
when painting concrete or cement surfaces at home.
Why
would you want to paint concrete?
When it comes to finishing your basement, a
coat or two of paint can be a more cost-effective option than drywalling a
cement block wall. Concrete can be painted to give it an entirely new look, and
it's a terrific way to turn normally boring surfaces into unique focus points
in your home. It can also add some unique visual flair to otherwise dreary
areas, such as your garage floor.
Other advantages include the fact that
painting is a simple and inexpensive DIY project. It also provides adequate
covering if you want to conceal defects but don't spend money on new concrete
slabbing.
What's
the difference between concrete paint and concrete stain?
Acid-based stains penetrate the concrete
for a longer-lasting coating, are another popular alternative for updating
concrete surfaces. However, because concrete is famously non-uniform, you're
unlikely to get even coverage without that top layer of saturation.
On the other hand, concrete paint fills
pores directly on the surface, resulting in a much more even appearance. Keep
in mind that paint won't stay as long as stain, especially if you're driving on
it or putting a lot of foot traffic on it. Chips and peels are typical, and you
may need to touch up the surface from time to time to keep it looking great.
Selecting
the Most Appropriate Concrete Paint for Your Project
The best floor paint is long-lasting and resistant to wear and tear.
It's also stain and moisture resistant, and it has a non-slip surface so you
can walk on it safely.
Acrylic latex and epoxy are the two main
types of concrete paint that suit the bill. Which one you pick for your project
is determined by the overall look you want to create, the amount of money you
want to spend, and the effort you want to put into it.
Acrylic
Latex Concrete Paint
This water-based acrylic paint works
similarly to any other acrylic paint you could have at home.
The major advantage of using acrylic latex
paint for concrete is that you don't need any extra tools, ingredients, or
steps to follow—paint as usual. The disadvantage is that this form of concrete
paint isn't very long-lasting. While it should last a long time on walls,
you'll probably have to repeat it every few years if you use it on concrete
flooring.
Note that acrylic latex paint isn't
naturally non-slip, so if you want to walk on it, search for a formula that
includes slip-resistant chemicals.
Epoxy
Concrete Paint
Epoxy is another excellent concrete paint
option that is popular among professionals. It's a two-step process—you'll need
to mix your epoxy formula, which is made up of a resin and a hardener, before
rolling it on—which might be scary for home improvement DIYers.
Epoxy has several major advantages over
acrylic latex paint, including a surface that is far more robust and
long-lasting, as well as a lot more expensive appearance. Epoxy-painted
concrete or cement will have a lovely glossy finish, making it an excellent
choice for painting rooms displayed.
Still undecided on which path to take?
Here's a short comparison of acrylic latex and epoxy paints:
Acrylic
Latex Paint
•
Less expensive
•
Easier to apply
Epoxy
Paint
•
More durable
•
Lasts longer
•
Is more weather resistant
•
It has a shinier finish
•
It holds up better to frequent
cleanings
Both types of concrete paint are available in various colours and easily cover a
normal grey concrete slab. Consider what you want to do with the area before
deciding on the ideal one for you. If you're going to spend a lot of time on a
walkable surface, epoxy might be the way to go. For the best floor paint
materials, visit Regal Paint today!