Which Paint Type Is Best For Concrete Walls Outside?

Outdoor concrete wall paint options include elastomeric, epoxy, and acrylic. Elastomeric paints are highly flexible and offer excellent waterproofing qualities, making them ideal for exterior surfaces like basements and foundation walls. Concrete surfaces can be painted in at least three thin layers, either sprayed on, rolled on, or painted with a brush. Acrylic paints are preferred for their weather resistance and ease of application, while epoxy paints offer higher durability.

Choosing the right paint is crucial for outdoor concrete surfaces, as improper application can lead to cracking and peeling. Masonic paint, also known as elastomeric paint or elastomeric wall coating, is best for exterior walls due to its binders that expand and contract with the concrete. Emperor Masonry Paint is a silicone masonry paint suitable for use on any exterior walls, including concrete. DRYLOK Latex Concrete Floor Paint is a paint-and-primer solution designed to beautify and protect both interior and exterior concrete. Behr Dry Plus is a waterproofing paint that can resist up to 12 PSI of water pressure, making it perfect for exterior concrete.

For painting concrete, it is recommended to use masonry paint containing acrylic resins, which offer durability, adhesion, and resistance to ultraviolet light and harsh weather. Resene Moss and Mold Killer and Paint Prep and Housewash can brighten up tired concrete walls by using Resene Moss and Mold killer and Paint Prep and Housewash in your choice of color. Remember to choose the right paint for your specific needs and conditions to ensure long-lasting and durable outdoor concrete surfaces.

What happens if you don’t prime concrete before painting?

Concrete surfaces and stucco require primer before paint due to higher pH levels and efflorescence, which can cause adhesion issues. Great masonry primers can overcome these issues. When exterior paint fails, chalky residues can be seen on the surface due to the breakdown of binders and resins over time. A fresh primer coat is needed, and thorough pressure washing is not enough. If the surface is not cleaned well enough, it may have left over chalky residue, making paint unadherent. To ensure proper adhesion, it is essential to clean the surface thoroughly and avoid leaving chalky residue on the surface.

What happens if you paint concrete without primer?

Priming a concrete surface is a critical step in any concrete painting project. It prevents the formation of imperfections in the finish, such as peeling and cracking, which can otherwise occur over time. This ensures a long-lasting and durable finish.

Can you paint straight onto concrete walls?

Concrete surfaces can be painted, but proper preparation and application guidelines are necessary. The choice of concrete paint or stain depends on the surface being painted. Concrete is difficult to paint due to its porous nature, which can cause a patchy finish. To address this, builders often use a machine to create a power floated floor, which is non-porous and harder-wearing. This results in a smoother, easier-to-clean floor.

Power floated floors are often treated with products like Sika Sikafloor Proseal W to seal the surface. The first coat of paint should be thinned down to ensure proper bind with the substrate. Power floated floors are often treated with products like Sika Sikafloor Proseal W to ensure a smooth finish.

What kind of paint won’t peel on concrete?

Concrete paints are typically low-luster acrylic latex paints designed to hide imperfections and resist sun and UV damage. Epoxy paint offers a durable and stain-resistant finish, while oil-based paint provides a tough, shiny finish. Solid concrete stains are similar to paint and can be applied like paint. Masonry paints are typically used for masonry applications but can also provide effective coatings for concrete.

Epoxy-based concrete paints are not recommended for porches and patios due to their appearance resembling garage floors. If you prefer a different paint finish, choose a different paint finish. Brands like rust-oleum are often advertised as garage floor paint, so it’s best to choose a different paint finish.

This post may contain affiliate links, from which the author may earn a commission at no extra cost.

Do I need to prime exterior concrete before painting?

Primer is essential when painting concrete to prevent paint from soaking into the surface and provide added adhesion. If painting a bare concrete wall, primer is necessary, but not for previously painted surfaces. Emperor Masonry Paint Primer is recommended due to its super hydrophobic technology and compatibility with the paint. Apply one coat of primer and let it dry completely for 3-5 hours.

When painting exteriors, consider the weather conditions, especially in the US. Avoid painting in conditions below 5°C, as water-based masonry paint will not dry in these conditions, and above 20°C, as it can cause the paint to dry too quickly. Create shade if possible and avoid painting in direct sunlight. Using Emperor Masonry Paint Primer ensures a smooth and long-lasting finish.

Can I use regular exterior paint on concrete?

To prevent cracking and peeling of concrete, opt for masonry paint or driveway paint, which is thicker and requires special equipment for application. Use masonry paintbrushes and rollers with long arms or extenders for larger areas. Mix masonry paint thinner with the paint for the first coat, then apply it smoothly and evenly. Allow the paint to dry for several hours before applying the second and subsequent coats. Concrete sealant, available in glossy or matte finishes, can be applied with a brush or roller.

A second coat may be necessary in areas with heavy vehicle or foot traffic or frequently moved furniture, such as driveways, swimming pool surrounds, or patios. This will ensure the paint lasts longer and prevents cracking and peeling.

Do I need to prime concrete before painting?

Primer is essential when painting concrete to prevent paint from soaking into the surface and provide added adhesion. If painting a bare concrete wall, primer is necessary, but not for previously painted surfaces. Emperor Masonry Paint Primer is recommended due to its super hydrophobic technology and compatibility with the paint. Apply one coat of primer and let it dry completely for 3-5 hours.

When painting exteriors, consider the weather conditions, especially in the US. Avoid painting in conditions below 5°C, as water-based masonry paint will not dry in these conditions, and above 20°C, as it can cause the paint to dry too quickly. Create shade if possible and avoid painting in direct sunlight. Using Emperor Masonry Paint Primer ensures a smooth and long-lasting finish.

Do you need special paint for concrete walls?

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.

What is the best paint finish for exterior concrete walls?

The satin or eggshell finish is the preferred exterior paint sheen for most home exterior applications due to its basic maintenance points and attractive appearance. However, factors such as DIY vs. professional painting, DIY vs. flat finish paint, and the need for quick resale can influence the choice. A satin/eggshell finish is easier to apply and less likely to leave lap marks, while flat paint offers quick curing time and short-term aesthetic appeal. It is also simple to apply with a sprayer, as overspray blends in with the surface.

What kind of paint do you use on exterior concrete foundation walls?

Elastomeric paint, also known as masonry paint, is a suitable choice for painting foundations as it contracts and expands with the surface it’s painted on. However, exterior house paint is not suitable as it contains binders and can crack and peel when used on concrete. Foundation paint colors should be either the same or darker than the color of the siding, and should coordinate with shutters and roof. A neutral-colored tone, such as brown, beige white, or gray, is recommended.

If painting your exterior foundation is a DIY task, consider hiring a professional painting company like PaintRite Pros. Their skilled technicians can help you choose the best colors for your home and handle all your painting needs, including kitchen cabinets. They can help with all your exterior and interior painting needs.

What kind of paint will stick to concrete?

Epoxy-based paints offer durability and stain resistance, rendering them suitable for garage or patio floors. In contrast, masonry paints are designed for brick and concrete applications.