Concrete Paint Problems? Try Cem-Coat® Plus Instead
When looking for ways to upgrade a concrete surface, property owners often look to paint as a solution. If you do want to paint your concrete surface to give it a brand-new look, it’s important to choose a high-quality product that’s formulated for concrete such as Brickform’s Cem-Coat® Plus.
What is Cem-Coat® Plus?
Cem-Coat® Plus is not your average concrete paint. This opaque, high-strength, cement-based coating provides a great way to recolor a concrete slab, offering consistent color and durability.
This high-quality product streamlines the concrete painting process, saving you time and effort with superior results. Unlike other concrete paints, you don’t have to prime the surface before painting with Cem-Coat® Plus. This is because it acts as both a primer and paint, with bonding agents already included in the mix.
Why Use Cem-Coat® Plus for Painting Concrete?
It is critical to choose the right materials for your concrete paint job. Painting outdoor concrete with house paint that’s intended for walls, for example, is not going to hold up at all. Instead, the best paint for concrete is one that’s been formulated for use on a concrete floor. Cem-Coat® Plus provides a high-strength coat of color that’s perfect for unsealed concrete surfaces.
Here are some benefits of using Cem-Coat® Plus for concrete painting:
- Versatility. It comes in a variety of colors. It can also be applied in different ways to create a variety of appearances. The selection of concrete paint colors at your local home improvement store is much more limited.
- Durability. It is resistant to peeling and cracking. Store-bought paints tend to delaminate easily.
- UV resistant. Even if it’s in a location that’s not covered, the coating is not prone to fading from sun exposure.
How to Paint Concrete with Cem-Coat® Plus
Though this list isn’t intended to provide step-by-step instructions for painting a concrete surface, it will give you an idea of what to expect before taking on an interior or exterior concrete paint project using Cem-Coat®Plus. Always refer to the Use and Application instructions on the Technical Information Sheet before you begin painting.
- Prepare the surface
Thoroughly cleaning the concrete before applying Cem-Coat® Plus is essential if you want it to adhere well. Any coatings, sealers, grease, oils, stains, rust, waxes, and the like will interfere with the quality and lifespan of the product.
To properly prepare the surface, you’ll need a high-powered power washer and/or etching and cleaning products (learn about Brickform’s E-Etch and Neutra Clean). Other techniques such as grinding or media blasting may be needed to completely prepare the area.
- Mix the product
Cem-Coat® Plus comes in 8-lb bags that roughly cover 200 square feet. You’ll add water and mix the product completely. Use the mixed product within 1 to 2 hours and remix it every 15-20 minutes to avoid thickening.
- Apply the Coating
Using a roller or airless sprayer, paint the product evenly onto the concrete surface, avoiding puddling. Apply a second coat, if needed. Wait until the material is dry to the touch before applying a second coat.
- Add color effects
If you’re planning to add additional color, wait until its dry to the touch. Secondary color options for Cem-Coat® Plus include ARTesian Stain, a water-based stain that produces unique color effects, and Antique-It, an antiquing agent that adds highlights.
- Seal the surface
Once your final coat of Cem-Coat® Plus and topical colors are completely dry, apply a sealer. Brickform has several types of concrete sealers to choose from, depending on what type of finish you want. After sealing, protect the surface from foot traffic for at least 24 hours. If you’re working on a surface like a driveway or garage floor, keep vehicles off the concrete for at least 5 days.
FAQs About Painting Concrete
Is painting concrete a good idea?
Painted concrete floors are a good option for those looking for an easy, low-cost way to color a concrete surface. Some people also prefer the opacity of paint as opposed to a translucent stain.
With that said, it’s important to note that painting concrete is only a good idea when you’re using a product formulated for concrete such as Cem-Coat® Plus. If you decide to cut corners by purchasing the cheapest paint that wasn’t specifically created for a concrete surface, it’s not going to last long.
Does painting concrete last?
While painting concrete can last several years, you must use a high-quality product engineered for concrete surfaces. A cementitious coating will yield the best results. It’s important to remember to seal your concrete to ensure long-lasting color and durability to the elements.
While painting concrete does last a long time when you prepare the surface properly, use high-quality floor paints such as Brickform’s Cem-Coat® Plus, and seal the concrete, it’s important to consider whether it’s the best option for your project.
What is the difference between Cem-Coat® Plus and Stain?
Depending on the look you are trying to achieve, Cem-Coat® Plus will provide an opaque color to any concrete surface and can cover color variation. Concrete stains penetrate porous concrete adding color to the slab but do not hide color imperfections.
Cem-Coat® Plus can completely change the color of a slab giving you the freedom to achieve a brand new look to any patio or driveway. Stain, while great for coloring concrete and accenting borders, does not have the ability to completely change the color of a concrete slab.
Do you need to prime concrete before painting?
With most concrete paints, yes—you need to prime concrete before you paint it. However, with Cem-Coat® Plus, you do not need to prime as the bonding agent is included in the product.
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