Do I need special paint for a concrete floor

Question

I want to paint a concrete floor in my house that functions as a work roomI have some leftover Valspar interior gray paint. Can I use it on concrete?

Answer 1

From what I can tell from the Lowe's & Valspar websites, you would be better off using a paint specifically made for floor use. Valspar has a latex floor & porch paint (http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=pr...

Another thing to consider is the surface prep you'll need to do to ensure the paint will adhere properly to the concrete. This typically is to 'etch' the concrete with TSP, then rinse thoroughly, allow to dry, then paint.

Another option is to get an epoxy-based or urethane paint. Far more durable than other floor paints. The downside is the odor when applying and cost.  

Answer 2

careful some paint becomes very slippery on the floor  .especially if your feet get a bit damp  .maybe add some texture to the paint .

Answer 3

Absolutely, positively, do not use the wall paint to paint the floor!  I can guarantee that it will not last a year.  I agree with David that the most important step is the prep, however rather than TSP, I would use a concrete pretreatment (acid) solution to etch it.  The reasoning behind this is the lime in the concrete creates a strong alkali, which prevents the paint from adhering to it.  The acid neutralizes the lime, (just like vinegar and baking soda), and also removes the sheen that the concrete already has.  After etching and rinsing the floor, you can paint with pretty much any floor paint (epoxies are strongest, but oils and latex's will also work.)  

The prep assumes that the floor has not been sealed before, if it has already been painted, ignore everything I just said.

Answer 4

You can buy concrete floor paint at Home Depot/Rona/Lowe's/Canadian Tire for this purpose.  Make sure the floor is clean, dry and free of damage and cracks before applying.

Answer 5

Latex paint won't last very long on concrete. You need to use an epoxy enamel type. That's what my neighbor - a painting contractor - uses.

You also need to prep the surface properly to make sure the paint adheres properly.

Answer 6

YES!