How to Apply Epoxy Paint to a Painted Cement Floor

Applying epoxy paint to a raw, unpainted cement floor can take a lot of work. Since paint doesn’t stick to horizontal cement surface very well, you must use etching acid to create a porous surface more suited for adhesion. Luckily, if you’re garage or basement floor has already been painted, you can bypass this tedious, even dangerous step. However, before you begin slathering your cement floor with paint, you need to familiarize yourself with the proper preparation process or you will likely end up with some chipping and peeling.

Things You Will Need

• Coarse broom or brush
• Metal putty knife
• Chemical degreaser
• Mop
• Fan
• Towels
• Epoxy kit
• Roller extension pole
• Paint roller cover
• Roller frame
• Five-gallon bucket
• Wooden stir stick

Steps

1. Use the metal putty knife to scrape any dirt or sticky material from the painted cement floor.
2. Apply a chemical degreaser to any greasy or oily areas of the painted cement floor. Use a broom or a coarse brush to scrub these greasy or oily areas clean.
3. Use soapy water and a mop to wash the painted concrete floor.
4. Dry the floor completely using towels or a fan. Do not proceed to step five until the painted cement floor has dried completely.
5. Attach the paint roller cover to the roller frame. Screw the roller frame onto the roller extension pole.
6. Use a wooden stir stick to thoroughly mix the catalyst with the epoxy resin in the five-gallon bucket. Add pigment to the mixture if any was included with your kit.
7. Use the roller to apply the mixture onto the painted cement floor. Begin at one far corner and move left to right.
8. Continue applying the epoxy mixture to the painted concrete floor until it is completely covered.
9. Allow the surface to dry for a full 24 hours. Apply another coat if necessary.
10. Sprinkle the epoxy texture onto the surface before the second coat dries.

Things to Consider

Always read the labels before you begin applying epoxy coatings as some brands contain specific instructions.

Be sure to pay attention to your surroundings as you apply the epoxy paint to the painted cement floor. Otherwise, you may end up literally painting yourself into a corner.