Concrete paint

Concrete is one of the most durable building materials, but to maintain its aesthetic appearance and full functionality, it's worth protecting its surface with appropriate paint. Learn about the types of paints available, their properties, and how to properly prepare concrete for painting.

What is concrete paint?

Concrete paint is a specialized product designed for painting concrete surfaces. Its primary purpose is to protect the concrete from external factors such as moisture, chemicals, and abrasion, as well as to give it an aesthetic appearance, often in a specific color.

Properties of concrete paints

Concrete paints are characterized by:

• Weather resistance : Most are resistant to UV rays, rain, snow and changing temperatures.
• Chemical resistance : They protect concrete against the effects of chemicals such as oils and acids.
• Mechanical durability : They are resistant to abrasion and mechanical damage.
• Water vapor permeability : Some concrete paints allow the concrete to "breathe," which prevents moisture from accumulating under the paint.

Applying paint to concrete

Concrete paints are used both indoors and outdoors. The most common applications include: 

• Industrial floors : In production halls, warehouses and workshops where resistance to abrasion and chemicals is required.
• Garages and driveways : Protect concrete from stains from oil and other automotive fluids.
• Terraces and balconies : Provide aesthetic appearance and protection against weather conditions.
• External and internal walls : They provide an aesthetic appearance and protect against moisture and dirt.

Types of concrete paints

Choosing the right concrete paint depends on the specific surface and the conditions it will be exposed to. Here are the most popular types of concrete paint:

Polyurea paints 

Polyurea paints are modern coatings characterized by exceptional resistance to weather conditions and UV radiation. This makes them ideal for both outdoor applications (e.g., terraces, parking lots, driveways) and indoor applications (e.g., garages, production halls). They are also quick-drying, allowing surfaces to be put back into use in as little as one day. An example of such a product is Neodur® Fast Track SF , a solvent-free, high-build polyaspartic resin that allows for the application of the entire system (primer + two resin layers) within 9 hours at 25°C.

Epoxy paints

Epoxy paints consist of two components: epoxy resin and a hardener. When mixed, they create a highly durable and resistant coating. They are resistant to chemicals, abrasion, and moisture. They are often used on industrial floors, in garages, and workshops. An example of such a product is Neopox® Special , which is available in a variety of colors and can also be used for marking lines. Unfortunately, the vast majority of epoxy concrete paints are not UV-resistant, so they are recommended for indoor use only. For outdoor applications, they must be covered with a UV-resistant coating.

Polyurethane paints 

Polyurethane paints are highly resistant to abrasion, UV radiation, and chemicals. They create a flexible and durable coating that performs perfectly outdoors, on terraces and balconies. An example of such a product is Neodur® Special , which helps protect concrete surfaces. Furthermore, it can be tinted according to the RAL palette, allowing you to achieve the desired visual effect on your terrace, balcony, driveway, or apartment.

Chlorinated rubber paints

Chlorinated rubber paints are resistant to water, chemicals, and weather conditions. They are often used in swimming pools, reservoirs, and structures exposed to corrosion. Unfortunately, they are very hard and exhibit lower durability compared to the types of concrete paints mentioned above.

Advantages of using concrete paint

Using concrete paint has many benefits:

• Protection against external factors : The paint protects the concrete against moisture, chemicals, UV radiation and mechanical damage.
• Improved aesthetics : Paint adds an aesthetically pleasing appearance to concrete, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings or interiors. The ability to color many types of concrete paints according to the RAL palette translates into a vast array of color options.
• Easy to clean : Painted surfaces are easier to clean and less susceptible to staining. Simply use a soft-bristled cloth or mop with warm water and a mild detergent.
• Extended lifespan : Protecting concrete with paint increases its durability and resistance to damage. Typically, this can range from several to even a dozen years, depending on the product used, the applied thickness, and the use and subsequent maintenance.

How to prepare concrete for painting?

For the paint to adhere properly and perform its intended function, the concrete surface must be properly prepared. Here are some steps to take:

Assessment of surface condition

Before painting, assess the condition of the concrete. It's worth checking for cracks, voids, or other damage that requires repair. If any cracks or breaks occur, they should be filled using epoxy or polyurea resin-based products. Ready -made repair compounds , such as Epoxol® Putty or Epoxol® Liquid , are used for this purpose, allowing for the preparation of repair compounds in various consistencies, from flexible to thick. Another product suitable for this purpose is Neodur® FT Putty epoxy primers , such as Epoxol® Primer SF-P can also be used to fill cracks. This can be mixed with quartz sand in various proportions to create a repair compound suitable for concrete cracks and voids.

Surface cleaning

All dirt, dust, grease stains, and other substances that may impair paint adhesion should be removed. If necessary, a pressure washer or specialized cleaning agents can be used. Degreasing agents such as Emulsol or Sulfanol A . However, it's important to thoroughly wash the concrete of any residue left by these agents to avoid impairing the paint's adhesion to the concrete.

Concrete priming

Using the right primer improves paint adhesion and increases its durability. For poor-quality concrete substrates, such as anhydrite or screeds, it is recommended to use solvent-based epoxy primers, which will strengthen the substrate. An example of such a primer is Epoxol® Primer . Then, to seal the substrate's absorbency, apply solvent-free epoxy primers, such as Epoxol® Primer SF-P. If the concrete is damp both on the surface and internally, a primer for damp concrete, Neopox® Primer WS .

How to apply concrete paint?

Proper application of concrete paint is crucial to its durability and aesthetics. A few rules should be followed to achieve the best results.

Selecting painting tools and techniques

The choice of appropriate tools depends on the type of paint and the surface being painted. The most commonly used tools include:

• Paint roller – ideal for large, smooth surfaces.
• Brush – helpful for painting edges, corners and hard-to-reach places.
• Spray painting – provides even coverage and is used on larger industrial surfaces.

When painting, avoid over-applying paint as this may cause streaks.

Layering and drying time

• First layer – should be thin to ensure good adhesion.
• Drying time – depends on the type of paint and atmospheric conditions, but is usually between 4 and 12 hours. Drying times and environmental conditions are described in the product data sheets.
• Second layer – necessary in most cases, applied after the first one has completely dried.

Do not use the painted surface for at least 7 days to allow the paint to cure properly.