Painting masonry and concrete surfaces, retaining walls, sidewalks, garage, and patio floors, can dramatically enhance their appearance and longevity. However, these surfaces require specific preparation, paints, and sealers to ensure a durable and attractive finish. The following guide from Borlodan Painting Company, the leading painter in San Luis Obispo and nearby communities, walks you through the best types of products for a successful masonry painting project.
Preparation leads to success
Preparation is crucial because properly prepared surfaces have better adhesion, durability, and a more professional look. Better adhesion means the paint job doesn’t peel or flake and lasts longer.
- Remove dirt, grease, and other contaminants using a pressure washer or a scrub brush with a degreasing cleaner. For stubborn stains, consider using a concrete cleaner or etcher.
- Inspect the surface for cracks or holes. Use a concrete patch or filler to repair any damage. Allow the repair materials to cure completely before proceeding.
- Use the appropriate etching product for unsealed concrete. Etching roughens the surface which helps the paint adhere. Use a masonry etching product and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Apply a primer, especially for porous surfaces like masonry and concrete. Use a high-quality masonry primer to seal the surface and improve paint adhesion.
Proper preparation might seem time-consuming, but doing it right is an investment in the life of the paint job. Seasonal temperature fluctuations, local micro-climates, wind, rain, and even unexpected snow or freezes all have an impact on paint. Working with the Borlodan professional painters in communities near San Luis Obispo delivers the best long-lasting results.
Choosing the right paint
The choice of paint significantly impacts the durability and appearance of your project. Here are some of the best options:
- Epoxy paint is ideal for high-traffic areas, and is incredibly durable and resistant to chemicals, stains, and abrasions.
- Acrylic latex paint is suitable for exterior concrete surfaces such as sidewalks and retaining walls. It offers good coverage, flexibility, and resistance to UV rays and weather conditions.
- Concrete stain penetrates the surface and provides a translucent color that highlights the texture of the concrete for a more natural look. Stains are available in both water-based and acid-based formulas.
- Elastomeric paint is a highly flexible paint that is perfect for surfaces prone to cracking, such as retaining walls. It expands and contracts with the surface, providing a durable, waterproof finish.
Best painting techniques
Proper application techniques ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish.
- Use high-quality brushes, rollers, or sprayers. A roller with an extension handle can save time and effort. Brushes are more precise for detailed work.
- Apply the paint in thin, even coats. Multiple thin coats are better than a single thick one, ensuring better adhesion and reducing the risk of peeling. Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next.
- When painting indoors, ensure proper ventilation to avoid inhaling fumes and to facilitate drying. Open windows and use fans if necessary.
- Choose a day with mild, dry weather for outdoor projects. Avoid painting in direct sunlight or when rain is forecasted within 24 hours.
Sealing for protection
Sealing your painted masonry and concrete surfaces adds an extra layer of protection, extending the life of your project. The types of sealers include:
- Acrylic sealers are easy to apply and provide a protective, clear finish. They are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Epoxy sealers offer superior durability and chemical resistance, and are ideal for garage floors and areas with heavy traffic.
- Polyurethane sealers provide a tough, glossy finish and are resistant to abrasion and UV damage. They are suitable for both floors and walls.
- Apply the sealer in thin, even coats using a roller or sprayer. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before sealing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding drying times and the number of coats required.
Maintenance tips
Regular maintenance helps keep painted masonry looking fresh and new.
- Keep your painted surfaces clean by regularly sweeping and mopping with a mild detergent.
- Clean up spills immediately to prevent stains and damage.
- Periodically inspect the painted surfaces for chips or wear and touch up as needed.
Painting the cement patio floor or a retaining wall might seem like a great weekend DIY project. But, when you think about it, it’s going to take longer than a weekend.
- First, there’s the shopping to get all of the supplies and painting tools. That can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day.
- Enclosing the area to be painted to prevent pets and kids from tracking over it.
- The time needed to dry between applications of the etching solution, primer, coats of paint, and sealer can add unexpected hours.
- Finally, there’s always the chance you realize you need something else and have to run to the hardware store.
If you find it’s not the easy project you thought, call on the expert painters from San Luis Obispo County’s Borlodan Painting Company.
Call the experts
Borlodan Painting Company has been providing commercial, residential, interior, and exterior painting services since 2011. Owner George Borlodan has been a professional painter since 2005.
The team knows the Central Coast climate as only locals can, from temperate springtime and fall to fluctuating summertime temperatures and the winter micro-climates. Years of experience and staying on top of advances in paint formulations means you are assured the best type of paint is used for your project.
- The Borlodan team is distinguished from the competition because of its commitment to quality craftsmanship, speed, and fair, negotiable rates.
- For interior painting, they use low VOC (volatile organic compounds) products that are highly durable while avoiding the fumes that cause headaches, dizziness, and possible respiratory issues.
- The team arrives fully equipped for the job.
- When finished, they leave your property neat and clean.
- No job is too small or too big.
Reach out today to discuss any type of paint job you need.
