What Is a Quick & Easy Way to Redo Concrete Floors in a Basement?

Preparation for Painting

• Proper floor preparation ensures a satisfactory end result for your flooring project. The floor must be free of oil and grease and loose paint must be removed. Sand the floor to remove any gloss, if necessary. Basement floors are prone to excess moisture. If moisture is present, a tinted concrete sealer is an option instead of painting the floor, since a sealer is breathable and will allow water vapor to pass through.

Paint Choices

• Choose a paint designed for use on concrete for the best results. Epoxy concrete floor paint is a tough, durable choice. The surface is easy to clean, waterproof and non-toxic when dry. The paint adheres well when applied to a properly prepared surface. Water-based epoxy is the least expensive option and is a good choice for residential use. Acrylic porch and floor paint is available for use on basement floors as well. The paint is mildew-resistant and is available in both low-luster and gloss options. When applying acrylic paint to a concrete floor, use a concrete bonding primer. Additives for slip resistance can be added to the paint as well. Acrylic floor paint is a low-solids paint that is susceptible to peeling and flaking.

Painting Tips

• Apply acrylic and epoxy paints with a long-handled roller. Two light coats are preferable to one heavy coat. Application of concrete sealer over epoxy paint gives added protection to your floor. Non-yellowing urethane adds protection over acrylic paint. Wait 72 hours before replacing furniture or walking on a painted concrete floor to allow the paint time to harden sufficiently. Provide areas of softness to your painted concrete floor by placing area rugs on the floor.

Vinyl Tiles

• Vinyl tile is durable and moisture-resistant, making it another good choice for a quick and easy basement installation. If flooring is already in place in your basement, you need to remove it and any adhesive residue before installing your vinyl tiles. As with any flooring installation, the surface should be level and smooth. Fill any low spots, holes or cracks. Peel and stick tiles are the easiest option for do-it-yourselfers to install. After preparing the subfloor, peel off the backing paper and press the tiles in place. If your tiles require an adhesive, apply the adhesive according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and press the tiles in place. Along the edges of the room, you may need to cut tiles to fit. Wait 24 hours to replace furniture or to walk on the surface.