Do-it-yourself painting of a concrete floor in a garage: choice of paint, preparatory measures and painting instructions

How to choose

The choice of working material is based on many design, technological and climatic parameters.

Type and strength of concrete base

When working with standard concrete bases, the grade strength of which is within M150-M300, polyurethane and epoxy primers are used. If the base is made of polymer-cement, magnesium floors, concrete with a strength of M350 or higher, it is recommended to use deep penetration primers. The same materials are best used for compacting and strengthening weak concrete floors (up to M150).

Application conditions

If work must be carried out at subzero temperatures, polyurethane primer is used. If it is necessary to apply the composition to a damp base, use a deep primer or deep penetration primer. If the smell is unacceptable during work, use epoxy primer.

Other parameters

In some conditions, it is necessary to take into account the level of vibration loads on the floor, chemical resistance parameters, and the time during which the object must be put into operation.

Causes of dust and defects

Concrete floors are characterized by active dusting. This is explained by the fact that due to the porous structure of the floor, under the influence of loads, it gradually wears out. Small particles form a layer of dust on the bottom of the garage that cannot be completely removed with a brush or other means.

For a similar reason, defects appear on the floor covering. In addition, cracking of the concrete screed is caused by:

• natural subsidence;
• contact with machine oil and other aggressive substances;
• penetration of water into the screed structure.

To avoid such problems, it is recommended to remove dust from the concrete screed at the stage of arranging the interior space by applying the appropriate material.

Epoxy primer for concrete

Primers of this type are made on the basis of epoxy resins.
Ready-made compositions are characterized by unique characteristics, which are in demand on any concrete base. Such materials are used for painting, for installing all types of epoxy floors (self-leveling, thin-layer, quartz-filled), and for pouring economical thin-layer transparent coatings.

Types of epoxy primers:

Technical specifications

Epoxy-based primers have high adhesion strength to concrete. The material provides good moisture protection and is fireproof. The finished layer demonstrates strength and resistance to wear during operation.

We can say that soils are characterized by deep penetrating ability, which contributes to the compaction and strengthening of concrete from the inside. The composition will prevent cracking and peeling of finishing paints.

The finished layer dries after 24 hours . The only limitation in application is that the material should not be spread over wet substrates. One of the significant advantages of epoxy floors is the absence of odor during application.

To revive the composition, it is heated, preferably in a water bath. Warm-up temperature – up to +60 degrees. This operation will return all original properties.

Objects of application:

Typical technical parameters of two-component epoxy primers are discussed in the table:

Polyurethane primer for concrete

Polyurethane primers are considered one of the best. They are more affordable compared to previous analogues.

Technical specifications

This type of soil is not inferior to epoxy in terms of adhesion parameters, and adhesion to concrete does not depend on its actual absorption. The material works successfully on dusty surfaces, binding dust and strengthening the base.

A significant advantage of polyurethane-based compounds is their resistance to high temperatures. This allows them to be used with functioning underfloor heating systems, for treating external concrete floors and walls.

Types of polyurethane primers

2.Deep penetration . Such compositions are able to effectively absorb into the pores of concrete, penetrating to a depth of 4-6 mm or more. This solution is suitable for concrete grades M350 and stronger. Maximum hardening is achieved at M100-M300. Can work on wet surfaces .

3.Deep primer . This is a two-component composition with improved penetrating ability. In addition, it is characterized by astringency, which is effective when processing magnesium, polymer-cement concrete and other bases with low porosity.

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On weak concrete, the primer works as a strong hardener . After polymerization, a chemically resistant layer with high mechanical strength is formed. Deep soil is very fluid, works at the highest possible binding capacity and penetrates deep into concrete, including low-porosity, wet substrates. But, the consumption of such materials is 30-40% higher than that of simple polyurethane primers. To saturate concrete with M350 you will need about half a kilogram per 1 sq.m.

Deep soil is capable of exhibiting the texture of artificial stone and is suitable for application both indoors and outdoors. It is used as a sealing, strengthening, dust-removing agent on surfaces subject to high-intensity loads . The finished layer is resistant to shock loads and abrasion. After impregnation, the base takes on the appearance of varnished concrete.

The finished layer demonstrates constant resistance to the following negative factors:

Scope of application: low-porosity, dense, magnesium concrete, concrete tiles, high-strength concrete M350 and higher, moist but not wet bases, including those with poor quality waterproofing (there is capillary suction of water).

Typical technical parameters:

Acrylic paints

Paint for concrete floors

Manufactured using innovative acrylic resins; various polymers can be added to increase stability. After drying, a durable film appears on the surface. The coating is wear-resistant, can withstand heavy loads, and does not peel off over time.

1. Positive sides. Simplicity and versatility of use, environmental friendliness, reliable and long-term protection of painted surfaces from various influences. The paint dries quickly, and an additional layer can be easily applied if necessary. Not afraid of prolonged exposure to moisture and fuels and lubricants. Can be applied either with a roller or with a pneumatic spray gun. Using a spray gun improves adhesion, paint particles hit the concrete and penetrate into all microcracks.

   Applying paint with a spray gun

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2. Negative sides. In terms of physical strength, they do not fully satisfy modern requirements.

Acrylate, acrylic primers for painting

Materials of this group are used for processing concrete facades, as well as for indoor work with subsequent coating of walls with water-dispersion paints.

Acrylate primer improves adhesion, evens out the absorbency of the base, and provides a water-repellent effect . The finished layer helps reduce paint and varnish materials when applying finishing coatings.

The peculiarity of acrylic materials is that they are well suited for processing previously filled and plastered surfaces. The advantages of this solution are increased weather resistance, a significant increase in strength and adhesion to the base. Acrylic primer significantly reduces the consumption of finishing layers .

Typical technical characteristics of acrylic primers:

Latex primers for concrete for painting

Essentially, these are concentrates of synthetic polymers.
Materials of this type are distinguished by the fact that they create a moisture-proof, water-repellent coating on the surface of concrete. They are used indoors and outdoors, including on highly absorbent substrates. Latex reinforcements work effectively both on walls and on floors, including under heated floor systems. It is necessary to take into account that the composition is characterized by an antiseptic effect , prevents the development of mold, fungi, bacteria, which is important against the background of high humidity.

Latex primers are used in diluted or concentrated form. They are characterized by a milky white color and medium fluidity.

Proportions are chosen based on the goals of the work:

Typical technical parameters:

Application technology

Priming concrete for painting is one of the main technological operations. Any mistakes can affect the quality of the finishing coating, including complete replacement. These are serious and unjustified financial losses.

Concrete preparation

The principles of preliminary preparation are always the same.
All surfaces to be treated must be cleaned. The floors are sanded using a mosaic sander. It is permissible to use shot blasting or sandblasting, which is also important on vertical structures. Chemical cleaning may be used for walls. During the work, it is important to completely open the pores of the concrete and remove the laitance (on new concrete) . The weak surface layer, dirt, old coatings, and oily areas are completely removed from old concrete. Immediately before applying any type of primer, the surfaces are dusted with industrial vacuum cleaners.

Features of applying one-component polyurethane primers

In order for the material to work effectively, waterproofing is installed on the lower floors. This will eliminate backwater and capillary suction of water from below to the floors. If they are working on freshly laid structures, a 28-day curing period is required , given that the concrete matures under normal conditions.

Working conditions:

Application:

The average consumption of one-component polyurethane primers is 150-300 g/sq.m.

Features of the use of two-component polyurethane primers of deep penetration

Application conditions:

Application:

Features of the use of deep primers

Application conditions:

Application: the two-component composition is thoroughly mixed with a construction mixer. For high-quality kneading, 2-3 minutes and a speed of 300-400 rpm are enough. You should remember the viability of the mixture - 60 minutes . It is recommended to apply the finished composition with a polyamide roller or brushes in 2-4 technological approaches. Drying each layer takes 6-8 hours. Before painting, primer is applied until a uniform wet surface is obtained.

Features of applying acrylate primers

Application conditions:

Application can be carried out using rollers, brushes, and paint sprayers. It is enough to apply 1-2 layers, which depends on the actual condition of the surface . If a paint sprayer is used, the composition should be applied evenly and generously.

The average consumption is 1 kg/10-12.5 sq.m. Layer-by-layer drying time takes 1-2 hours under favorable application conditions. If the air humidity exceeds 65% and the temperature is below +15 degrees, the next layer is coated only after 12 hours of drying the previous one.

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Features of the use of acrylic primers

Application conditions:

Application: acrylic primers are applied with sprayers, brushes and rollers in 1-2 technological approaches. Layer-by-layer drying takes 10 hours, provided that the air temperature is above +20 degrees. The consumption of the composition depends on the roughness and absorbency of the surface. On average, it will take 0.2-0.3 kg to cover one square meter.

Features of using latex primers for painting

Application conditions: t surface, environment - +5+50 degrees . Before use, the soil is thoroughly mixed. The composition is brought to the required concentration.

The work is carried out using airless and air spray guns or using a brush or roller. It is recommended to apply the composition in 2 approaches, which will eliminate incomplete treatment of the base.

Drying time for each layer is 30 minutes . The finished surface must dry for at least an hour. Consumption depends on dilution proportions.

The concentrated solution is consumed in an amount of 50 g/sq.m., in a ratio of 1:2 - 16 g/sq.m., in a ratio of 1:5 - 8 g/sq.m.

Features of the use of alkyd primers

The primer is used in its pure form or requires dilution with organic solvents, such as white spirit. For application, brushes and rollers are used, applying the composition in 1-2 technological approaches. It must be remembered that the material is particularly toxic and requires compliance with fire safety standards.

How to paint concrete after priming

Paints intended for use on concrete differ in their protective, operational characteristics, and application features.

Epoxy paints

It is recommended to use epoxy primers for such materials. The paint itself is a two-component composition that requires mixing immediately before application. This is a good solution for interior work, especially for painting floors. This is due to its high chemical resistance, wear resistance, and water resistance.

Acrylic

Application is carried out over acrylic and acrylate primers. The material works well indoors, providing resistance to high humidity and temperature changes. This is facilitated by high decorative characteristics, a variety of textures and colors.

Polyurethane paints

The composition provides high resistance to chemical attack and other operational loads. In practice, application is carried out on concrete coated with polyurethane primers (one- or two-component). The main purpose is to cover floors. Like acrylic compositions, a nice appearance is ensured.

Rubber

This wear-resistant paint is renowned for its resilience. A film based on such material can be bent and rolled without breaking its integrity. These properties work well under mechanical loads, which is why the material is used to cover indoor floors. It is better to apply rubber paint over an acrylic primer.

Urethane-alkyd

The material demonstrates high hiding power and high abrasion resistance. The finished surface is glossy, but you can expect a wide variety of colors. The paint adheres well to alkyd primers.

Types of paints and necessary tools

For painting, you can use polyurethane enamel, alkyd, acrylic or epoxy paint. Accordingly, you need to choose a polyurethane or epoxy primer. It will level the rough surface and smooth out its cellular structure, ensuring good adhesion of the paint to the concrete. The primer itself provides additional protection against damage. In addition, it improves the waterproofing of the floor.

Rollers for painting the floor.

Before starting work, you should stock up on tools and materials such as:

• concrete grinder;
• spray;
• replaceable paint rollers of different sizes: foam rubber, velor, facade;
• clasp (handle for roller);
• paint brush;
• narrow brush for painting corners;
• container for pouring paint;
• masking tape;
• protective film;
• topping (impregnation) with or without pigment;
• primer;
• quartz sand;
• paint or enamel.

It is necessary to take care of safety. The following protective equipment is used against harmful fumes and splashes of material in the eyes and on the skin:

• special glasses with ventilation holes;
• protective gloves;
• disposable gloves;
• respirator;
• shoes with spikes;
• robe, other work clothes.

You may be interested in: How to lay concrete floors: technology for performing the work

Primer for concrete floors - why is it needed?

The primer is a translucent whitish composition with a liquid consistency. Its main purpose is to level surfaces. The primer mixture acts by penetrating the upper layers of building materials and improving their smoothness and quality properties. It is applied before the final finishing of the surface, as a result of which the level of protection from moisture, destruction and fungal attack increases, and the degree of adhesion of materials increases (due to an increase in the contact area).

You can prime both vertical and horizontal planes, for example, floors. This treatment process is most often applied to concrete floor surfaces. Concrete itself is a durable material, but it does not resist aggressive influences (wind, moisture, vibrations) well enough - cracks appear in it, and dust that is hazardous to health appears in the fragile top layer.

A primer for a concrete floor greatly increases the period of its trouble-free operation, since it levels and polishes its rough surface, and also neutralizes the ability of the material to generate a lot of dust, compacting the top layer of concrete.

Note! The use of primer mixtures will also save paint and varnish materials by reducing their consumption.

Should I apply before laying laminate or tile?

Some novice builders sometimes wonder whether they need to prime a concrete floor before laying tile or laminate flooring. Considering that good surface preparation largely determines the service life of the floor covering, and strips of laminate laid on an uneven floor will quickly lose their attachment to each other, sag and creak, the answer is yes - of course, it’s worth it. Next, a polyethylene or cork backing is installed on the primed concrete and the laminate is directly installed.

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If you plan to make a tiled floor, then if the concrete base has increased dust, greasy stains, a previous layer of tiles, wear and tear or a layer of waterproofing (for example, in a bathroom), it is necessary to increase the level of adhesion using primer mixtures.

Additional Information! A negative answer to the question of whether it is necessary to prime the floor before laying tiles is possible only if there is “fresh” concrete as the base and the use of cement-based adhesive.

Cover the floor with PVC tiles

Another option for protecting the floor in the garage is to cover it with PVC tiles. Modern PVC tiles are modular tiles with locks, size 50 by 50 cm, thickness 5;7; 10 mm. Colors to choose from. Requires a level base. The service life is 20 years, this tile is easy to install.

conclusions

As you can see, there are quite a lot of garage floor coverings. Choice from economical options (primer impregnation) to expensive luxury modules and tiles.

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Types of primer solutions

If previously there was only one type of primer, which was used in all cases, now you can find a wide variety of these mixtures in construction stores.

They are divided into the following types according to the depth of penetration into the base of the floor:

According to the intended purpose, the floor primer is:

Reference! Often primer mixtures combine several purposes - for example, antiseptic and fireproof at the same time.

Which one to choose depending on the base being processed?

Floor primers should be selected based on the type of surface being treated: for new floors or previously rubbed; for porous or smooth surfaces and different base materials:

As a primer for a concrete floor under laminate or tile, a concrete-contact mixture is most often used to form a rough waterproofing film on the cement screed. Such floors last about 8 decades.

Also, when choosing primer mixtures, you should take into account the color of the base (it is desirable that it matches the finishing coat), the area to be treated, the consumption of soil (depending on the degree of absorption of the base), as well as the temperature of the priming site (there are frost-resistant and heat-resistant products).

Selecting material by type of room

Depending on the location of the priming work, choose different types of primer for tiles or other floor coverings:

Polymer self-leveling floor in the garage

Polymer bulk has a second name, liquid linoleum. This is an expensive, two-component coating used like self-leveling concrete floors. Requires serious preparation of the base; it is prepared from two components directly during use.

According to technologies, there are the following polymer self-leveling floors (LP):

1. Epoxy NP;
2. Polyurethane NP;
3. Self-leveling floor with flocks;
4. White NP
5. 3d floor
6. Transparent self-leveling floor
7. Conductive self-leveling floor
8. Antistatic, without tape floor

Only the first three of the listed polymer floors are suitable for a garage.

How and with what to apply primer to the floor surface

To perform priming work efficiently, it is advisable to have on hand the appropriate tool needed for it.

Thus, porous substrates (which include concrete) are easier to process with a spray gun, and poorly absorbent surfaces are primed with a paint roller or a wide brush with soft bristles for a more even distribution of the mixture.

Before starting all work, you should properly clean the work surface, clearing it of small mechanical debris, dust and dirt (you can use a construction vacuum cleaner). Next, the cracks are sealed using putty.

You can’t just pour primer on concrete - you need to follow the consumption standards for this material, and you shouldn’t save money either; it’s better to apply the primer in several layers. Initially, a deep penetration compound is used, then the floor is sanded and a final coat of primer is applied.

Attention! Do not mix primer with concrete.

Rules for using primer

Dry primer mixtures sold in stores are diluted according to the manufacturer's instructions with tap water. Application should be done evenly, trying to obtain a uniform surface without sagging. The direction of movement is from the far corner of the room - to the front door.

It is necessary to monitor the temperature and humidity in the room - the quality of priming depends on this.

A primer should be applied to the loose base until the mixture stops being absorbed, then you can proceed to the next stage of work.

Surface preparation

Before work, you should check whether the fur coat is falling off the roller. If lint or fibers remain in the solution and fall onto the floor, they will be difficult to remove later. We check the quality of the fur coat like this: first we try to pull the pile with our fingers. Then, to be sure, we prime a small test area with a roller, wait for it to dry and see if the fur coat has left fibers and lint on its surface. It would be a good idea to repeat the check. If everything is in order, you can start working.

The floor surface must also be prepared for priming:

• remove the old coating (manually, with a grinding machine), peeling on the screed;
• we clean from dust, dirt, oil stains, grease and wipe off with a solvent;
• We sand the wooden floor with sandpaper along the grain, first coarse-grained, then fine. It is better to wrap the skin on a wooden block and secure it with a stapler - it is more convenient to work;
• knots on pine boards often release resin - we clean them off with a spatula. Performing again? We heat the knot with a hairdryer and cover it with shellac primer;
• vacuum and thoroughly wash the floor surface. Waiting for it to dry.

Why so much pre-work? Before applying the mixture, the surface must be perfectly clean. Dust, pieces of dirt and small “construction” rock, oil stains, resin, and peelings violate the tightness of the primer layer. This means that the strength of the base for the finishing layer is not guaranteed.

Have you ignored the condition of cleanliness? Expect mold at the seams, cracks, and chips on the tile sheets in a couple of months.