If you’re a homeowner, keeping your foundation in good shape is absolutely critical. After all, your foundation is what keeps your entire house strong and stable. Cracks or crumbling in the foundation can lead to very serious issues. That’s why protecting and beautifying your exterior foundation walls with a fresh coat of quality paint is so important.
Why Painting Your Foundation Matters
It’s easy to overlook your home’s foundation walls since they are out of sight. But keeping them properly sealed and maintained should be a priority. Here are the key benefits of adding a fresh coat of exterior paint to your concrete foundation:
- Protects against weathering and moisture damage – Paint creates a protective barrier against the elements.
- Prevents cracks and crumbling concrete – Flexible paints can bridge existing cracks and prevent new ones.
- Provides an attractive, uniform appearance – Paint covers discoloration and stains.
- Allows customization of color – Choose a shade to complement your home.
- Extends the life of your foundation – Paint protects the integrity of the concrete.
Without paint, untreated concrete is vulnerable to damage from rain, snow, temperature swings, sunlight exposure, and more. Keeping a quality paint coating on your exterior foundation walls is one of the most effective ways to defend against deterioration.
Choosing the Right Exterior Foundation Paint
With so many types and brands of exterior paint on the market, it can be tricky to select the best one for your concrete foundation. Here are the key considerations as you shop for the optimal foundation paint.
Types of Paint for Concrete Foundations
Some types of paint are specially engineered to adhere to and protect concrete surfaces:
- Elastomeric paint – Flexible to expand and contract with temperature changes.
- Masonry paint – Formulated for concrete and masonry substrates.
- Cement paint – Designed for use on cement and concrete.
- Concrete sealer – Penetrating sealers for protection.
- Waterproofing paint – Contains sealants to block moisture.
- Acrylic paint – Provides good adhesion and durability.
Elastomeric or masonry paints are top choices for exterior concrete foundation walls. The elasticity allows the paint to bridge existing hairline cracks and move with the concrete through freeze/thaw cycles and temperature swings.
Key Features to Look For
Ideal exterior foundation paint should include these key features:
- Flexibility – Allows paint to expand and contract with the concrete.
- Acrylic resins – Provide maximum adhesion and durability.
- Mold and mildew resistance – Prevents ugly black stains.
- UV protection – Guards against sun damage and fading.
- High solids content – Delivers excellent hiding power.
- Penetrating sealers – Soak in to fortify and protect porous concrete.
Checking for these important characteristics helps ensure the paint you choose will stand up well to weather, moisture, sunlight and other hazards.
Leading Brand Recommendations
Based on professional painter recommendations and consumer reviews, here are some top-rated exterior paint brands for concrete and masonry:
- Sherwin-Williams Loxon XP for elastomeric paint
- BEHR Premium Concrete & Masonry Paint
- KILZ Masonry/Concrete Paint
- INSL-X Sure Step Acrylic Anti-Slip Coating
Sherwin Williams Loxon XP is a favorite for its self-priming formula, high elasticity, and long-lasting durability. BEHR Premium and KILZ Masonry paints are also great budget-friendly options. For added traction on slippery concrete, INSL-X Sure Step has aggregated anti-slip particles to create a textured non-skid finish.
Prep Work is Crucial for Success
Before you even open the paint can, proper prep work is absolutely essential. It lays the groundwork for the paint to adhere tightly and perform at its best. Don’t shortchange this important process.
Cleaning and Repairing Concrete
Start by thoroughly cleaning and repairing the concrete walls:
- Pressure wash away all dirt, grime, peeling paint and efflorescence.
- Patch any cracks, holes or damaged areas with hydraulic cement.
- Grind down any high spots or protrusions for a flat surface.
Addressing any underlying issues before painting prevents future headaches. Take time to properly clean and repair your concrete foundation walls first.
Proper Dry Time
Moisture is paint’s worst enemy, so adequate dry time is mandatory:
- Let newly poured concrete cure for at least 30 days.
- Test moisture levels with a meter before painting.
- Wait for several dry days in a row before painting.
Applying paint too soon can cause bubbling, cracking, peeling and adhesion issues down the road. Be patient and allow proper dry time before painting.
Priming Concrete
Most paints will require a primer coat for best adhesion:
- Use a proper concrete primer for superior bonding.
- Tint primer close to the topcoat color for better coverage.
Quality primers are formulated especially for concrete surfaces. They soak in deeply to ensure the topcoats stick tight. Primer is well worth the small extra cost.
Application Techniques for Exterior Concrete Paint
With the prep work done, you’re ready to start applying the paint. Use these techniques for a flawless professional-grade finish:
Brushes, Rollers and Sprayers
- Use a high-quality nylon/polyester brush for cutting in edges.
- Choose a 1/2 or 3/4″ synthetic nap roller for smooth finish.
- Airless sprayer requires a .015-.019 size tip opening.
The right tools make the painting job much easier. Brushes reach tight spots while rollers quickly cover large areas. Sprayers are fast but require masking off overspray.
Number of Coats
- Two coats are the recommended minimum.
- Darker colors may require three coats for best coverage.
Don’t attempt to get by with a single coat – thin or uneven coverage can compromise protection and appearance. The small extra cost of a second or third coat is worth it.
Applying in Sections
- Work in 4×4 or 5×5 sections for best coverage.
- Maintain a wet edge as you move along the wall.
Breaking the walls into smaller sections makes the painting process more manageable. Working from top to bottom while maintaining a wet edge prevents lap marks.
Caring for Painted Concrete Over Time
Your painting work isn’t done once the last brushstroke goes on. Maintaining your painted concrete properly over time ensures it continues looking its best.
Signs It’s Time to Repaint
Watch for these cues that your foundation walls need freshening up:
- Fading, chalking or loss of color intensity
- Bubbling, cracking, peeling or blistering paint
- Mold, mildew or algae growth
Typically, expect to redo the paint every 3-5 years. Address any issues promptly to limit further damage.
Power Washing Safely
When power washing prior to repainting:
- Use low pressure and a wide-angle nozzle.
- Work top to bottom to prevent drips and streaks.
- Allow walls to dry completely before painting.
Take care not to blast off existing paint. Light pressure with a fan spray prevents damage.
Ongoing Maintenance
Between paint jobs:
- Reapply elastomeric paint every 3-5 years.
- Touch up any damaged areas as needed.
- Keep concrete properly sealed against moisture intrusion.
Staying vigilant with maintenance and touch ups keeps your painted foundation walls looking their best year after year.
Adding a fresh coat of quality exterior paint to your concrete foundation walls is one of the best investments you can make for your home. The right paint protects against weathering, seals out moisture, prevents cracks, and adds custom color. While the prep work is important, the painting itself is relatively easy with the right materials and techniques.
Give your home a strong foundation for both structural integrity and curb appeal. Don’t let cracks or crumbling compromise your home’s bones. Renew your exterior foundation walls with a protective coating of elastomeric masonry paint designed specifically for concrete and masonry.
You can keep your foundation looking beautiful and perform at its best with the strategies above. Your home deserves a stable, durable foundation – and exterior foundation paint plays a critical role in longevity and appeal.
