What Kind Of Paint Should I Use On My Outside Cinder Blocks?

Transform your outdoor cinder block wall with creative paint ideas and techniques, such as geometric patterns, stencils, murals, faux brick, color blocking, and textured paint. Choose durable acrylic or masonry paint for outdoor surfaces. Before painting, give the blocks a power wash to avoid trapping moisture behind the paint. For interior cinder blocks, use interior paint and exterior-grade paint on outdoor surfaces. For highly moist surfaces like basement cinder blocks, purchase elastomeric paint.

To paint outdoor concrete, select the right paint, such as acrylic-based paint or concrete stain. Clean and prepare the surface by removing dirt, repairing cracks, and etching the concrete. Apply a concrete primer, and follow the painting tips provided.

For small sections of the cement block wall, use a paintbrush, while larger sections should be primed with a filler and common exterior paint. The best types of paint for cinder blocks are acrylic latex paint and elastomeric paint. Milk paint can also be used if you prefer an option without volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Valspar Duramax is an elastomeric paint that holds great on masonry and can be used for a new look. Spot prime with concrete primer SW loxon, drylok, and caulk/fill. Brush roll two coats of preferred exterior paint, using a heavy nap (3/4,1/2) on a 9-inch can.

Use concrete and masonry bonding primer, not wood or drywall primer or self-priming paint. After priming, choose an elastomeric top coat or regular exterior acrylic/latex paint. High-quality acrylic cinder block paint is essential for longevity, as low-quality paints can fade and peel. Surface-bonding cement is the simplest way to cover a cinder block wall, creating a concrete finish.

Is painting outdoor concrete a good idea?

Painting versus staining is a popular choice for concrete patios due to its ease of DIY and ability to cover up discolorations and stains. However, painting is less durable than staining, as it can fade, chip, and be damaged over time. The choice depends on factors such as time and resources to hire a professional for staining and the level of durability required. Mild climates may not be affected by painting, while harsh winters or frequent use may necessitate staining.

Regardless, both methods will result in an updated, unique patio that will be enjoyed for years to come. Ultimately, the choice between painting or staining will depend on the specific needs and climate.

How to make cinder blocks look better?

Concrete block walls are often used in construction, but their appearance can diminish curb appeal and resale value. Covering them can improve outdoor space appeal and prevent cracking, rot, mold, and structural failures due to moisture infiltration. Permeable concrete absorbs water, expanding pores, and damages the concrete. Oil settlement and hydrostatic pressure can lead to hairline cracks and leaks.

To protect the concrete block wall, contractors can use decorative stucco, vinyl siding, artificial stone panels, natural stone, and natural green coverings. Polyguard recommends using a quality sealant like Airlok Flex® VP to maximize moisture resistance.

Can you use acrylic paint on cinder blocks?

Cinder blocks can be painted using acrylic-latex paint tinted to your choice, with interior paint for interior cinder blocks and exterior-grade paint for outdoor surfaces. Elastomeric paint is suitable for highly moist surfaces like basement cinder blocks. Apply primer or paint in temperatures between 50-90° F and dry the blocks completely. Use paint strippers in well-ventilated areas with eye and breathing protection and waterproof gloves. Natural paint strippers are caustic, so follow safety precautions.

What paint to use for exterior concrete?

Masonry paints, such as whitewashes, are primarily designed for brick, stone, and other masonry applications but can also be used as effective coatings for concrete. They contain binders and epoxies that bond well with concrete, but some may not offer protection against elements. The best paints for concrete contain binders that allow the coating to contract and expand with concrete as it cools and warms.

Concrete porch and patio paints are often low-luster acrylic latex paints, while epoxy-based paints offer high durability and stain resistance. However, exterior house paints should be avoided as they tend to crack and peel.

What is the best sealer for cinder blocks?

The 8510 is a high-active penetrating sealer that prevents water from seeping through concrete blocks and cinderblocks, reducing mold, mildew, and efflorescence growths. It is the deepest penetrating and longest-lasting sealer in the Siloxa-Tek line due to its small solvent carrier amount. Available in a ready-to-use version, it can be applied wet-on-wet using a solvent-rated sprayer, roller, or brush, ensuring dry and clean surfaces.

Should you paint cinder blocks?

Concrete blocks are durable, cost-effective, and fire-resistant, but they deteriorate due to moisture. To protect them, they need paint. Before painting, inspect the wall for structural integrity and repair any cracks, holes, or gouges. Clean the surface by pressure washing to remove dust and dirt. ACP Painting uses DryLok masonry primer/waterproofer to treat water-affected areas for a longer-lasting finish. This ensures the walls remain strong and resistant to moisture.

What kind of paint can be used on exterior concrete?

For optimal results, use specialist concrete paints like epoxy for bare concrete floors and quality masonry paint for walls. Spray paint concrete with a single pack floor paint, and apply using a brush or roller. Different concrete paints are better suited for specific areas, such as stairs with a non-slip, textured finish, or outdoor areas with UV protection and weather resistance. For stairs, opt for a non-slip paint for better grip, and for walls, opt for a quality masonry paint.

How do you make an outdoor cinder block wall look nice?

Concrete block walls are often used in construction, but their appearance can diminish curb appeal and resale value. Covering them can improve outdoor space appeal and prevent cracking, rot, mold, and structural failures due to moisture infiltration. Permeable concrete absorbs water, expanding pores, and damages the concrete. Oil settlement and hydrostatic pressure can lead to hairline cracks and leaks.

To protect the concrete block wall, contractors can use decorative stucco, vinyl siding, artificial stone panels, natural stone, and natural green coverings. Polyguard recommends using a quality sealant like Airlok Flex® VP to maximize moisture resistance.

Can you paint exterior concrete blocks?

Masonry or concrete blocks can be painted after proper preparation, which usually involves cleaning the surface to remove dirt, dust, or debris. Some paint types may need a primer. Concrete blocks are porous, making them good at absorbing moisture and paint. Multiple coats may be needed depending on the desired finish and color. The easiest way to paint concrete blocks is to follow these steps:

What is the best paint for cinder block exterior?

To paint a cinder block fence, use high-quality acrylic latex paint for its longevity and smoothness. Visit a local paint store to get expert recommendations on paint and primer. Pressure wash the wall to ensure it’s clean enough for paint to stick. Cinder blocks produce efflorescence, a white, powdery stain, which can cause fading, peeling, and chalky appearance. Ensure the wall is clean enough for paint to stick. Using the right type of paint and pressure washing can help ensure the job is done correctly.