The Best Concrete Paint Picks for Basement Floors, Garages and Decks
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Available in an array of colors—desert sand, gray pearl, saddle brown, pine green, white and tile red—this acrylic concrete paint adds style and polish to any indoor or outdoor surface. The skid-resistant matte finish is designed for high-traffic areas like stairs, walkways and patios.
One can provides approximately 80 to 120 square feet of coverage, and any spills are cleaned up easily with soap and water. After painting a space, keep it tidy with these smart organizing ideas.
Pros
- Available in seven stylish colors
- Maintains appearance over time
- Works on concrete, wood and metal
- Anti-slip formula
Cons
- Dirt may be more visible on dark paint colors
- Higher-than-average price point
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If your garage floor has taken a beating lately, a coat of this Seal Krete concrete paint will help it stand up to repeated wear and tear from tires, water, oil and grease. The acrylic-epoxy blend works on any indoor or outdoor concrete surface, such as patios, porches and basements.
Its waterproof, UV-resistant formula offers up to 500 square feet of coverage and dries with a satin finish that protects against stains, peeling and fading.
Pros
- Three times sturdier than standard porch or floor paints
- Quick-drying
- Tinting isn’t required
- Low-odor formula
Cons
- Not skid-resistant
- Not compatible with wood or metal
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What to Consider When Buying Concrete Paint
Before clicking add-to-cart, make sure the product you choose checks all the boxes. According to home and painting expert Kyle Leman, the best paint for concrete should be durable, stain-resistant and safe for everyone in your home.
“Paints with UV resistance and waterproofing capabilities are usually superior choices. If the surface is prone to moisture, anti-mold and mildew additives are beneficial,” says Leman. “Stay away from paints that have high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can be harmful to both health and the environment.”
Types of Concrete Paint
The two types of concrete paint are epoxy and acrylic, each of which have their advantages. Picking the best concrete floor paint depends on the overall look you’re hoping to achieve, as well as your application preference. “Epoxy-based paints are durable and ideal for garage floors, while acrylic latex is more suited for outdoor surfaces due to its UV resistance,” notes Leman.
Why You Should Trust Us
As an associate shopping editor for Family Handyman, I have experience researching products and recommending the best designs to consumers.
I consulted Kyle Leman, owner of Crossroads Foundation Repair. Leman has helped homeowners with construction and remodeling projects for over 15 years. Leman’s passion for providing long-lasting waterproofing and repair services for foundations, basements and crawl spaces is second only to his penchant for educating customers on how to best maintain the concrete surfaces in their homes. As a certified contractor with over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial painting projects, Leman has extensive experience in dealing with various types of paints, including concrete paint.
How We Found the Best Concrete Paints
As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We started by vetting top-rated picks from Walmart, Amazon and Lowe’s. Then, we thoroughly read descriptions and consulted with brands to gather information on the most important features found in the best concrete paints. Durability, look, finish and application are all things we take into consideration.
Taking advice from industry insiders and subject-matter experts, we compared these features and narrowed down our list to the best performers. Finally, we combed through user reviews to see how real people interact with the paint, and if it stands up to expectations. The result? We’re confident that these are the 10 best concrete paints available on the market thanks to extensive research and expert guidance.
FAQ
How long does concrete paint take to dry?
Plan to apply at least two coats. Allow the first coat to dry completely (which takes approximately four hours) before proceeding to the second. If you expect to walk on the concrete after it’s painted, we recommend waiting a minimum of one to two days before the final coat is applied for the best results.
To help speed up the drying process, try running a dehumidifier before and during the paint job. Afterwards, close all the windows and turn on the air conditioning or a fan.
Is concrete paint waterproof?
It depends on the type: Epoxy is typically waterproof and does not require any additional sealing layers, while acrylic paint may not be 100 percent water-resistant and can benefit from a sealer coat. Either way, it’s best to apply a primer prior to painting to maximize staying power according to foundation and concrete Kyle Leman.
“A primer is crucial for better adhesion,” says Leman. “After the primer, two coats of paint are generally recommended, allowing ample drying time between coats. Using a roller can provide a smoother finish compared to a brush.”
How long does concrete paint last?
It varies by brand, but as general rule of thumb, plan to apply a new coat every three to five years. Always prepare the surface properly before adding another coat, as improper preparation can speed up the wear and tear on concrete paint.
“Preparation is key to achieving a long-lasting finish. The surface must be clean, dry, and free from cracks or holes. Acid etching or concrete grinding may be necessary for particularly stubborn surfaces,” Leman notes.
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