Basements are often overlooked in Canadian homes, despite providing an extra space for entertaining or storage. They are usually relegated to being “uninviting” or “unfinished”, especially if these spaces feature cold concrete floors, peeling paint, or tired surfaces.
The good news is that you can easily bring comfort and protection to this space with a high-performance floor paint. This paint can transform a basement from drab to revived and design-forward!
As with any flooring project, using floor paint requires the proper prep, products and tools. Read on to learn how painting concrete or wood flooring can add durability, moisture-resistance and personality to these high-use spaces.
Step 1: Prep
When it comes to painting floors, the quality of the prep work determines how long your finish will last. Skipping this step can lead to peeling, cracking, or poor adhesion, especially in areas prone to moisture.
For basement concrete, start by checking for existing moisture and addressing any damp spots first. Repair minor cracks, ensure the surface is completely dry, and remove dust, dirt, and residue. Acid etching or using a concrete cleaner can help open the surface, allowing the paint to bond correctly.
Timber Tip
If you’re looking to repaint, you’ll want to remove loose or peeling paint using a TASK Scraper! This tool will help create a smooth, clean surface, allowing the new coating to adhere evenly and last longer.
Step 2: Choose Your Paint
It may be evident by now, but not all paint is designed for floors! For concrete basements, SICO Floor Paint Interior/Exterior is formulated to handle real wear. This paint is a blend of 100% acrylic latex and polyurethane, delivering outstanding adhesion to concrete (it’s also perfect for wood). Its low-VOC formulation also meets Canadian indoor air quality standards, making it a wise choice for enclosed areas like basements and laundry rooms.
Canadian homeowners will especially love this option, as it resists flaking, peeling, and stands up to moisture year-round.
Timber Tip
When choosing a paint product for your concrete floors, be sure to consider the temperature changes, humidity, and moisture exposure. Not only for damage prevention against the flooring, but also to ensure the paint is both durable and moisture / mould resistant. Be sure to repair any cracks before painting.
Step 3: Apply
Your application technique matters just as much as the paint itself! Use quality rollers for broad areas and brushes for edges, corners and detail work to achieve a smooth, even finish.
Timber Tip
SICO Floor Paint offers excellent resistance to humidity, oil and stains, making it ideal for basements used as laundry rooms, workshops or storage areas.
We recommend applying thin, even coats and allowing proper drying time between layers. This will ensure you build a durable surface that looks clean and intentional.
Step 4: Measuring and Detail Work
Painted floors aren’t just practical; they also present an opportunity to add a touch of design! Colour-blocked zones, stencilled patterns or defined work areas are a growing trend in basements and utility spaces.
A Makita Tape Measure makes it easy to map out zones, plan layouts, and accurately calculate paint coverage before you begin. Measuring first helps avoid uneven lines and ensures you have enough product to finish the job without interruption.
Timber Tip
Dry-mark your design with painter’s tape before you open your paint can! It’s an easy way to visualize the finished look and make adjustments.
Visit your local TIMBER MART and speak with our experts for advice on floor paint, prep tools and accessories. We carry trusted brands like SICO, Makita and Task Tools, that can help you transform your basement or porch with confidence.
