Painting a basement floor is inexpensive and relatively quick but delivers stunning results. You'll not only have the chance to express your creativity and add personality to your basement, but you'll also make this area of your home more resilient to wear and tear.
How to Paint a Basement Floor
Would you like to refresh your basement and make it more inviting? Painting your concrete basement floor is a relatively easy and quick makeover that can drastically enhance this area of your home. From surface preparation to applying the best basement floor paint, Sherwin-Williams will take you step-by-step to ensure a stunning, durable result you'll be proud to show off!
STEP 1
Fill Cracks in the Concrete
Before you can revitalize your basement with a fresh coat of floor paint, make sure your concrete is in healthy condition and has a uniform surface. Inspect your basement floor for cracks and fill them with Concrete Patch & Repair products from Sherwin-Williams.
STEP 2
Clean & Etch the Basement Floor
Once you've patched any cracks in your cement flooring, the next step is cleaning the entire surface. We recommend using a Cleaner and Degreaser to remove any residue or grime. Then, apply H&C Concrete Etching solution following the instructions on the label, which will make the floor porous and help the concrete paint adhere.
STEP 3
Place Painters Tape
The last step before painting your basement floor is applying painter's tape around the edges. Painter's tape protects the trim or walls while you work, preventing the need for touch-ups when you're finished repainting your basement floor.
STEP 4
Apply Basement Floor Paint
Now that you've prepped everything, you can apply basement floor paint following the directions on the product label. Thankfully, Sherwin-Williams offers a couple of great products to help you complete this project. Consider our durable Porch & Floor Paint in any color you like, or choose a durable epoxy basement floor paint, like the H&C Epoxy Garage Floor Coating.
Basement Floor Staining
Staining your basement floor can enhance its appearance and provide protection. Start with a clean, dry surface, and follow the manufacturer's instructions. For durable results, consider Sherwin-Williams’ H&C Concrete Stain, which offers deep penetration for lasting color and resistance to wear and fading.
Tip: Our Porch & Floor Paint provides a resilient finish that holds up well to moderate foot traffic. However, if your basement is occupied more often or you store heavy equipment in this area, like workout machines, the H&C Epoxy Garage Floor Coating might be better for your situation. Our epoxy basement floor paint can withstand higher weights and more traffic, which is excellent for busy basements.
Experience the Benefits of Painting Your Basement Floor
If you're ready to give your basement new life, consider painting your basement floor with the help of Sherwin-Williams! This practical and cost-effective project enhances the appeal of your basement while also adding durability and longevity so that you can enjoy your refreshed space for longer.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
Project Supplies
Frequently Asked Questions
Etching before painting your concrete basement is vital. Concrete is naturally non-porous, and an etching solution opens the concrete's pores to maximize the bond between the concrete paint and the surface. Ultimately, etching your concrete basement improves paint adhesion and promotes a long-lasting finish.
The most common color to paint a basement floor is gray, as it resembles concrete's natural color. However, you can choose a hue that matches the style and purpose of the room. For example, select a dark neutral for a basement movie theatre or a vibrant shade for a gaming area.
