If your garage, patio or basement floor looks like a dull room or is stained, there’s an easy and affordable way to bring it back to life. Through cement floor paint. Whether you’re decorating your home or workshop or protecting an outdoor concrete patio, a few drops of high-quality concrete paint can completely transform your space.
In this DIY guide, we will show you how to paint concrete floors the right way and review what to look for in a good cement floor paint product to ensure long-lasting, professional-looking results.
Why Choose Cement Floor Paint?
Cement floor paint does more than add color. It’s a protective barrier that shields your concrete from oil stains, tyre marks, moisture and UV exposure, while plain concrete is porous to cracking, while a well-coated surface is easier to maintain and clean with a visually appealing surface.
Whether it is your garage, basement or outdoor patio, using a specialized floor paint for concrete makes a huge difference. ArmorPoxy’s ArmorSeal Concrete Floor Paint and ArmorPoxy II Epoxy Floor Coating are top-rated solutions when it comes to DIYers and professional services.
Prep is Everything
Painting concrete isn’t like painting drywall. It is all about preparation. To get the best adhesion and durability, you need to follow essential steps before you can start painting your concrete floor.
Clean the Surface Thoroughly
Remove dust, grease, oil and old coatings using a degreaser or concrete cleaner. Pressure washing is highly recommended for garage or outdoor floors where dirt and grime can accumulate.
Repair Cracks or Chips
Use a concrete patching compound to fill in cracks or damaged areas. Uneven floors will cause paint to pool and peel later.
Etch the Surface
Etching opens up the concrete pores so the paint can penetrate and bond. ArmorPoxy’s Etching Solution makes this step simple. Once etched, rinse the surface thoroughly and let it dry completely for at least 24 hours.
Check the moisture
A quick test: tape a plastic sheet to the floor for 24 hours. If condensation appears underneath, moisture is coming through the slab, and you will need a moisture vapour barrier primer before painting.
The Right Cement Floor Paint
Not all concrete paints are created equally. However, ArmorPoxy’s ArmorSeal Concrete Floor Paint is a great all-around choice for both indoor and outdoor use. It’s self-priming, UV resistant and available in multiple colours. For heavy-duty areas like garages or commercial floors, the ArmorPoxy II Epoxy Kit provides an ultra-hard, glossy surface that resists chemicals and abrasions.
How to Paint a Concrete Floor: Step by Step
Step 1: Prime the Surface
Apply a primer or base coat compatible with your chosen floor paint. This ensures a strong adhesion and better colour coverage. For damp or newly poured concrete, use ArmorPoxy’s Moisture Barrier Primer to prevent peeling and blistering in later stages.
Step 2: Apply the Coat
Use a roller with an extension pole to apply the paint evenly. Cut in edges with a brush. Work in small sections to maintain a wet edge and avoid lap marks.
Step 3: Let it Dry
Allow the first coat to dry completely, typically 12 to 24 hours, depending on temperature and humidity. Good ventilation speeds up the drying process.
Step 4: Apply the Second Coat
For maximum durability on a concrete floor, it is good to have a second coat. This deepens colour, adds gloss and seals the surface for long-term protection.
Step 5: Add a Topcoat
If you want an extra layer of protection, especially when in garages or outdoor areas, it is important to have a clear urethane or polyaspartic topcoat. This boosts chemical and UV resistance while making cleanup easier.
ArmorSeal Concrete Floor Paint
If you want professional-grade results without professional complexity, ArmorSeal Concrete Floor Paint is your best option. It’s
- UV stable, i.e., perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications.
- Self-priming, i.e., no separate primer required on most surfaces.
- Resistant to oil, water and chemicals.
- Available in multiple colours and gloss levels.
For more demanding spaces like commercial garages, upgrade to ArmorPoxy II Epoxy Coating, offering unparalleled hardness, chemical resistance and shine.
Final Shine
Painting your concrete floor isn’t just a weekend DIY project. It is an investment in your home's longevity and appearance. With the right cement floor paint, proper surface preparation and a little patience, you can achieve a stunning, durable finish that stands up to foot traffic, spills and sun exposure.
Whether you’re refreshing a garage, protecting an outdoor patio or reviving a basement floor, ArmorPoxy’s cement floor paint systems are built to deliver performance and style that last.