Concrete Floor
Concrete is one of the most versatile and durable building materials. Composed of sand, water, gravel and cement, it is used for creating walls, floors, ceilings and foundations. While many people have concrete floors in their homes, the surface is often covered by carpet, tile or similar finish materials. As modern and industrial home decor is becoming more popular, however, more people are choosing to leave their concrete floors uncovered. To pull off this look, the surface must be properly cleaned, sealed and painted, especially in living areas such as the bedroom.
Instructions
1. Patch any existing holes or cracks in the surface before you begin. Mix a bag of ready-mix concrete with water, then use a trowel to fill and smooth out cracks and voids. Scrape away any excess material and allow it to dry overnight .
2. Clean the floor using a solution of trisodium phosphate, or TSP, and water. Blend these materials in a bucket according to the instructions on the TSP package. Use a mop to scrub the floor with this solution, removing dirt, grime, grease and stains.
3. Apply a concrete sealer to the floor after it has dried. Use a paint roller to spread the sealer in a thin, even layer. Choose a sealer made specifically for indoor applications.
4. Wait 24 hours for the sealer to dry before proceeding with paint installation.
5. Select an epoxy-based paint in a color that matches your decor. Choose a variety that is meant for use on concrete. This type of paint is available at most home improvement stores.
6. Line baseboards, receptacles and other floor-level items with painter's tape to avoid staining them.
7. Use a paint roller to apply the paint to the sealed concrete. Start at one corner and work your way across the room in rows. Allow the paint to dry for 2-to-3 hours before applying a second coat. If you are using a darker color, two coats should be sufficient. With lighter colors, you may want to apply up to 5 coats for best results.
8. Avoid walking on the floor as it dries. After it is fully dry, remove the painter's tape to complete the project.
Tags: before proceeding, concrete floors, paint roller, painter tape