Basement Floor Paint Options

A concrete basement floor doesn't have to be boring. Add simple basement floor paint and achieve a fresh look with an extra layer of durability.

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By: Caroline Shannon-Karasik

It might seem unnecessary to paint a basement floor, but consider that cold, hard slab of concrete and imagine if it were a warmer color. Better, right? While there are a number of basement floor paint options from which to choose, contractors and homeowners agree that epoxy paint is the best choice for preserving and enhancing a concrete floor.

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Epoxy paint dries thick and hard, providing the necessary durability that comes hand-in-hand with maintaining a basement floor. Epoxies are also an excellent solution for a basement that is being used as a recreation area or workshop.

An added benefit that comes with choosing an epoxy paint is that it will act as a waterproofing sealant for a basement floor, helping to lock out excess moisture. There are three types of epoxy paint — water-based, solvent-based and 100 percent solid — and they come in a range of colors, including ivory, brown and red.

Concrete stains, paints and dyes are also options for enhancing the look of a basement floor, but you'll need to know how to stain concrete, and none of them offer protection similar to that of an epoxy paint.

See also: Floor Buying Guide

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