How to Finish Concrete Floors
Most concrete floors in basement homes or garages are unfinished. While the floor is still functional, it is not always durable or attractive. Finishing your concrete floors will not only make them look better, but also last longer. Using a paint or stain to finish off concrete floor works well and can easily be maintained.
Materials Needed:
- Garbage bags
- Tape
- Concrete paint
- Paintbrushes and rollers
- Spray painting tools (optional)
- Concrete stain
- Low-gloss varnish or sealer
- Tarp
- Goggles
- Gloves
- Paint tape
- Remove any moisture from the floor, if needed, before you paint or stain your concrete floor. If you have moisture, tape plastic garbage bags tightly to the floor to keep any air from seeping out. Leave them down for about 24 hours and then remove them.
- Prepare the area around the concrete floor. Cover any items near by with a tarp or sheets. This should especially be done if you will be spray painting or staining the floor. Get ventilation in the area by opening windows. Protect your skin and eyes by wearing long sleeves and goggles.
- Decide on paint or stain for your concrete floor. There are paints made specifically for concrete that you can use if you choice to paint the floor. Stain does not cover the concrete floor much as paint does, but it adds a unique look and a touch of color to the concrete.
- Apply the paint for stain to the concrete. Use the tool that works best for you and cover the floor entirely with one coat of paint or stain. Allow time for the floor to completely dry, and then apply another coat. Apply additional coats if you desire, allowing time for each one to dry in between applications.
- Protect the paint or stain by adding a layer of varnish or sealer once the floor is completely dry. The more layers of varnish or sealer you add the more protected and durable your concrete floor will be.