Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

October, 2004

Painting a New Concrete

Q. I will be moving into a brand new house in mid-October. The basement was poured in July. Can I paint the basement now? If so, what is the best coating to use? If not, how long must I wait?

The normal waiting period for painting you concrete is about 30 days. They looking at the calendar I would say that it is safe for you to apply a coat of paint.

In new construction concrete I like to recommend that you acid etch (with a mild acid solution) the surface to remove and neutralize any alkaline salts that may be present on the surface. The certain that the basement is well ventilated, and allow all the concrete plenty of time to dry thoroughly.

I recommend that you use a moisture blocker and concrete sealer type product to apply over the newly cleaned concrete surface. Contact the folks at you're local home-improvement center, ask for specific product recommendations and application procedures. They should be able to send you in the right direction.

Please be aware that paints, coatings and solvents are chemicals and therefore you must always pay attention to proper handling procedures and be prepared to wear protective clothing, such as respirators, gloves, coveralls, etc. For further information on the health and safety requirements for the coatings and solvents you wish to use we strongly advised you to contact your local coating supplier. If possible, go the extra step and look for this information on the website of the product vendor.

Acid etching: You MUST insure that you are properly protected with goggles, acid-resistant gloves and proper clothing so that you don't injure yourself. For similar reasons, please insure that you keep others away from this process.

Regards,

Jim Burke