Painting Surface
Concrete
Painting concrete? Start here to compare common paint options and find an approach that fits your project.
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Concrete paint compatibility
Concrete should be fully cured, clean, and dry before painting. Remove loose material and use products approved for concrete or masonry.
| Paint | Compatibility | Preparation | Primer | Finish | Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic paint | Good when fully cured and dry | Let new concrete cure and dry fully; remove dust, loose material, and surface contaminants. | Can be painted directly for some decorative uses; sealing or gesso can improve the painting surface. | Choose a suitable protective finish for wear or exposure. | — |
| Spray paint | Good with a concrete-compatible product | Remove dust and loose material; make sure the surface is clean and fully dry. | Use a compatible primer when required by the spray paint or surface condition. | Product-specific. | — |