What kind of paint do you use on a concrete porch?

When it comes to painting a concrete porch, using the right type of paint is crucial for getting great results. The porch floor endures a lot of foot traffic and exposure to the elements, so the paint needs to stand up to wear and resist peeling, fading, and stains.

Acrylic Latex Paint

Acrylic latex paint, also called acrylic emulsion paint, is the best choice for painting concrete porches. Acrylic latex paints are water-based and formulated using an acrylic resin binder. Here are some key advantages of using acrylic latex paint on a concrete porch:

• Durable – Acrylic latex paints form a protective plastic-like coating on the concrete surface. This coating is flexible, yet very durable, resisting damage from heavy foot traffic.
• Weather resistant – Acrylic latex paints contain polymers that make them highly resistant to damage from sunlight, rain, snow and temperature extremes. The paint film remains flexible and won’t crack or peel.
• Breathable – While forming a protective barrier, acrylic latex paint still allows moisture vapor to pass through. This prevents moisture from being trapped under the paint and causing it to blister.
• Good adhesion – Acrylic latex paints are specially formulated to bond tightly to masonry surfaces like concrete. Priming enhances adhesion.
• Abrasion resistant – The acrylic binders make this paint more resistant to abrasion from foot traffic than other types of paint.
• Easy clean up – Since acrylic latex paints are water-based, they can be cleaned up with water before the paint dries.

When applied properly to a clean, dry concrete surface and allowed to fully cure, acrylic latex paint provides excellent protection and lasts longer than many other types of paint. Be sure to choose a high quality exterior grade acrylic latex paint that is specifically made for masonry surfaces.

Oil-Based Alkyd Paint

Alkyd paints, also called oil-based enamels, were once very commonly used on concrete porches. However, acrylic latex paints have largely replaced alkyd paints for exterior use. Here are some drawbacks of alkyd paint that make acrylic latex a better choice:

• Long dry time – Alkyd paints take much longer to dry than acrylics, often requiring 24 hours or longer before recoating.
• Strong odor – The petroleum solvents have a very strong odor during application.
• Difficult cleanup – Brushes and rollers need to be cleaned with mineral spirits or paint thinner.
• Prone to peeling – Alkyd paints don’t expand and contract with temperature changes as well as acrylics, making them more prone to peeling.
• Yellowing – Alkyd paints tend to yellow over time with exposure to sunlight.
• Not as durable – While reasonably durable, alkyd paints do not stand up to foot traffic as well as quality acrylic latex paint.

For these reasons, acrylic latex paint is a better choice in most cases for painting a concrete porch floor. However, alkyd paint may sometimes be used for railings or other porch surfaces that don’t endure as much direct foot traffic.

Epoxy Floor Paint

Another option to consider for painting a concrete porch is two-part epoxy paint. Epoxy paints provide an extremely durable, high-gloss coating that is even more resistant to wear, chemicals, and stains than standard acrylic latex paint. Some key advantages of epoxy paint include:

• Extremely durable – Epoxy forms an exceptionally hard, protective coating able to withstand very heavy foot traffic.
• Excellent adhesion – Epoxy paint bonds tenaciously to concrete surfaces.
• Chemical resistance – Epoxy resists damage from motor oil, gasoline, antifreeze, battery acid, pool chemicals, and other corrosive materials.
• Stain resistant – The glossy surface resists staining from spills, motor oil, leaves, and other materials.
• Abrasion resistant – The hard finish better resists scuffing and abrasion from foot traffic.

Epoxy paint does have some disadvantages to consider. It is significantly more expensive than acrylic latex paint. The surface preparation required is extensive and it can be tricky to mix and apply the two-part product. Epoxy also tends to chalk and fade more quickly when exposed to sunlight. Overall, epoxy paint is best reserved for industrial settings where chemical resistance is needed.

Choosing the Right Paint Finish

In addition to choosing the right paint type, it’s also important to use the appropriate finish for a concrete porch:

• Flat – Flat or matte finish paints have no gloss shine and are good at hiding imperfections. However, the porous surface tends to hold dirt and is harder to clean. Flat paints are not durable enough for high traffic areas like porches.
• Eggshell – Slightly more glossy than flat paints, eggshell finishes are also too delicate for porch floors. The porous surface stains easily.
• Satin – With a smooth, low luster appearance, satin finishes are suitable for moderate traffic areas. They are somewhat stain resistant while hiding surface imperfections well.
• Semi-Gloss – Semi-gloss paints have medium gloss and good stain resistance. They clean up easier than satin but may accentuate imperfections in the concrete.
• Gloss – High gloss paints create a shiny, light reflective surface. They offer the most stain and abrasion resistance. However, they accentuate any imperfections in the concrete.

For painting a concrete porch floor, satin and semi-gloss acrylic latex paints provide the best combination of durability, stain resistance, and coverage. Semi-gloss may be preferred in hot, sunny climates where the glossy surface reflects more heat. Satin works well in cooler climates. For railings and other surfaces, higher gloss paint can provide good stain protection.

Surface Preparation

Proper surface preparation is extremely important for successful results painting concrete. Concrete is inherently alkaline, so acidic materials like bare wood, metal, and some paints will quickly fail unless the surface pH is neutralized. Here are key steps for preparing a concrete surface for painting:

1. Clean the concrete thoroughly with a detergent and stiff scrub brush to remove all dirt, grime, oil, and other contaminants.
2. Rinse thoroughly and allow the surface to fully dry.
3. Repair any cracks, holes or damaged areas using a concrete patching compound. Allow patches to dry completely.
4. Use a concrete degreaser or cleaner to remove any oil or grease stains. Rinse and allow to dry.
5. Etch the concrete with a 10% muriatic acid solution to neutralize the pH and improve paint adhesion. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry.
6. Apply a high quality alkali-resistant primer to enhance paint adhesion and provide a uniform surface.

Taking time to properly prepare the concrete before painting will help the finish last longer and look better.

Apply in Proper Conditions

In addition to surface preparation, following some basic rules will also ensure the best results:

• Only apply paint in dry conditions when no rain is expected for 48 hours.
• Do not apply when surface or air temperature is below 50°F.
• Avoid painting in direct sunlight or on hot surfaces.
• Apply in the shade during cooler parts of the day.
• Allow new concrete to cure for at least 30 days before painting.
• Follow all label instructions for application tools, thinning, dry time, and recoating.

Applying acrylic latex porch paint under the right surface and weather conditions will help achieve maximum durability.

Tips for Applying Porch Paint

Follow these tips for getting great results painting a concrete porch:

• Use high quality applicator tools – Invest in good paintbrushes, rollers, paint trays, and edging tools.
• Cut in edges first – Use a brush to cut in around edges, corners, and borders to create clean lines.
• Use a roller to fill in main surface area – Use a heavy nap roller to quickly apply paint to the main open areas.
• Maintain a wet edge – Work in sections and maintain a wet edge as you go to prevent lap marks.
• Work methodically – Carefully plan your application sequence and work systematically.
• Apply two coats – For best coverage and protection, apply two coats allowing proper drying between coats.
• Clean application tools promptly – Clean brushes and rollers thoroughly before paint dries using the appropriate solvent.

Taking your time and using proper application techniques will ensure your porch paint job looks smooth and professional.

Anti-Slip Additives

Since porches tend to get wet and slippery, adding an anti-slip additive to the porch paint is highly recommended. These additives contain granules or particles that create microscopic texture on the painted surface to increase traction. Silica sand and alumina oxide are two common anti-slip materials. For best results:

• Only add anti-slip additive to the final coat of paint.
• Stir in thoroughly according to product directions before applying.
• Typically 3-4 lbs of anti-slip additive per gallon of paint is recommended.
• Avoid over-applying as too much additive can make the surface uncomfortably rough.
• Anti-slip additives come pre-mixed into many porch and floor paints.

Anti-slip texture will provide peace of mind that wet porch surfaces maintain adequate traction and reduce the chances of slips and falls.

Other Concrete Porch Painting Tips

Here are a few other tips that can lead to great results painting a concrete porch:

• Clean porch thoroughly prior to painting – Remove dirt, cobwebs, debris, etc.
• Mask off adjacent areas – Use painters tape, drop cloths, and paper to protect siding, windows, railing, etc.
• Remove furniture and door mats – Clear the porch completely to allow unobstructed painting.
• Check for pops and cracks – Fill any flaws in the concrete with patching compound prior to priming and painting.
• Etch previously painted porches – Etching removes gloss and improves adhesion for painting previously coated concrete.
• Allow fresh concrete to cure – Let new concrete cure for at least 30 days before painting.
• Work safely – Set up ladders and scaffolding properly and wear protective equipment when needed.

Paying attention to details like preparation, taping, and safety will provide professional painting results.

Cost to Paint a Concrete Porch

For DIYers, the main costs for painting a concrete porch are the paint materials and any rental equipment needed. For hiring a painting contractor, you can expect to pay the following average costs:

Small porch up to 200 sq.ft.	$300 – $800
Medium porch 200 – 500 sq.ft.	$800 – $1,500
Large porch over 500 sq.ft.	$1,500 – $3,000

Many factors affect the cost like location, surface preparation needs, number of coats, and any repairs required. Anti-slip additive, primer, and using premium porch paint can also increase costs somewhat. Get free estimates from local professional painters to determine actual costs for your specific project.

Hiring a Professional Painter

While painting a concrete porch is a project many DIYers can complete successfully, there are some advantages to hiring a professional painter:

• Experienced with appropriate surface preparation for concrete.
• Proper equipment for more efficient cleaning and etching.
• Skilled applying primers, paints, and anti-slip additives.
• Insured and licensed for your protection.
• Higher quality application tools and familiar with best techniques.
• Trained in proper handling and application of concrete paints.
• More efficient at completing jobs quickly.
• Can provide warranty on their application workmanship.

For very large porch painting projects or surfaces in poor condition, hiring a qualified professional painter can ensure outstanding results.

Concrete Porch Paint – Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use latex paint on concrete?

Yes, latex paint, especially acrylic latex, is well-suited for application to cured and properly prepared concrete. Latex paints bond well and provide good protection on exterior concrete surfaces like porches.

What kind of paint adheres best to concrete?

Acrylic latex paints provide the best adhesion and durability on exterior concrete among common paint types. Alkyd enamels also bond adequately but do not last as long. Epoxy paints bond incredibly tenaciously to concrete but may be overkill for normal porch use.

How long after pouring concrete can you paint?

New concrete should be allowed to cure for at least 30 days before painting. This allows the concrete to fully hydrate and strengthen while minimizing shrinkage cracks. Painting too soon increases chances of adhesion failure.

Can you use exterior paint on concrete porch?

Yes, quality exterior house paint works well on concrete porches, especially acrylic latex formulations. Avoid cheaper interior paints without the UV inhibitors needed for exterior durability. Ensure the label confirms the paint is suitable for masonry or concrete.

How often should you paint a concrete porch?

With quality acrylic latex paint and proper surface prep, painting a concrete porch every 3-5 years is typical. High traffic areas may need repainting more often. Signs like visible wear, fading, flaking, and loss of anti-slip traction indicate repainting is needed.

Conclusion

Painting a concrete porch floor helps protect the surface and improves the appearance of the space. When done properly using the right type of paint, the coating can endure years of heavy foot traffic without damage. Acrylic latex paints provide the best combination of adhesion, durability, and appearance. Proper preparation like cleaning, etching, and priming ensure maximum performance. Allowing adequate drying time between coats and applying in the right weather conditions also improves results. Anti-slip additives help create a safer walking surface, especially when wet. Hiring a professional to paint a large concrete porch can assure outstanding, long-lasting results.