What Type of Paint Is Used for Lineoleum Floors?

Primer

• After the floor is fully prepared, clean and free of wax, the first “paint” you’ll use – with a roller, just like painting a wall -- is an oil-based primer. The resins in oil-based primers and paints adhere better. Some contractors prefer using an acrylic bonding primer specifically intended for floors. The primer coat will make the surface uniformly porous, which will help give the final paintjob a consistent color and texture. Tint the primer if you’ll be using a dark paint.

Paint

• Oil-based floor paints adhere better than water-based products, and generally harden faster – though newer low-volatile paints may take up to five days to cure, for the final coat. Read labels carefully, and be sure to pick a paint and primer that are fully compatible. Apply the first coat as soon as the primer is dry enough. Allow it to dry and then sand the surface lightly, to help the final coat adhere. Apply a second coat and let it dry fully before applying urethane protection.

Urethane

• According to Tim Carter, “Ask the Builder” columnist, three thin coats of clear water-based urethane will provide hardness and durability, and protect the paint from dirt, grime and the wear-and-tear of foot traffic. Water-based urethane won’t yellow. Every two years you can apply an extra coat, to maintain the protective layer. The How To/Ms. Builder website recommends pouring the urethane out on the floor in a line and then using a lamb's wool applicator to spread it.

Preparation

• Your carefully selected primer, paint and protective urethane coating will be for nothing without good preparation, which helps ensure a finish that sticks and a floor you’ll enjoy. A well-prepared surface is the key to a painted floor that lasts and looks good. Scrub the floor thoroughly with a good cleaner or trisodium phosphate to remove all dirt and grime. Use a wax stripper if necessary to remove all wax. Fill any holes, cracks or large depressions with plastic-type wood filler. Wet-sand the surface, using a hand sanding block. When the floor dries vacuum it and then wipe it clean with a wet rag or sponge.