How to prep uncoated & coated concrete
Prep concrete the right way before floor coating. Test the surface with water to check for sealer, etching, and moisture. Use the right cleaner, etcher, degreaser, or stripper based on whether the floor is bare, sealed, or painted. Check painted floors with duct tape to see if old paint is sound. Rinse well, let the surface dry, and confirm moisture is gone with a 2’ x 2’ plastic sheet test after 24 hours before coating.
- Test concrete with water to check for sealers, etching, and moisture before coating.
- Use different cleaning, stripping, and etching steps based on the floor’s condition.
- Check painted concrete with duct tape to see if old paint is still sound.
- Rinse well, let the surface dry, and use a plastic-sheet test to confirm the floor is dry enough to coat.
Achieving a flawless, long-lasting finish starts with proper surface preparation! Follow these essential steps to ensure your concrete surface is expertly prepped and primed, setting the stage for a smooth, durable topcoat application.
Tools & supplies
- Tray & Liner
- Roller Cover & Frame
- Extension Pole
- Scrub Brush
- Broom
- Hose
- Protective Apparel
- Chemical Resistant Gloves
- Painter's Tape
- Plastic Sheeting
- Scraping Tool
Step-by-step process
Uncoated concrete
Step 1
Clean your surface to ensure it is free of any dirt and debris.
Step 2
Use a cleaner and degreaser (read and follow all manufacturer's label directions) to remove remaining dirt, oil, or grease.
Step 3
Rinse and allow to dry.
Step 4
Etch surface using a product such as a muriatic acid etcher (read and follow all manufacturer's label directions) to achieve a textured profile similar to 150 grit sandpaper.
Step 5
Scrub etcher into surface, let sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse and allow surface to dry.
Step 6
Wipe your fingers over the clean, dry floor to check for dust or powder. Ensure there is no residue on your fingers that may have been left from the etcher. If residue is found, repeat the rinse again.
Step 7
Sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface. If water is quickly absorbed and the surface feels like 150 grit sandpaper, the surface is ready. If not, re-etch.
Step 8
Prime: Optimize topcoat adhesion by priming with BEHR PREMIUM® No. 880 Concrete & Masonry Bonding Primer for areas subject to automotive tires, heavy foot traffic, or persistent exposure to moisture, or in areas previously treated for efflorescence or laitance.
Previously coated concrete
Step 1
Clean your surface to ensure it is free of any dirt and debris.
Step 2
If the coating is failing or peeling, use a paint scraper tool or sand down to a sound concrete surface.
Step 3
For stubborn coatings, use a paint stripper (read and follow all manufacturer's label directions)
Step 4
Scrape down to sound concrete surface.
Step 5
Rinse paint stripper from surface and allow to dry.
Step 6
Prime: Optimize topcoat adhesion by priming with BEHR PREMIUM® No. 880 Concrete & Masonry Bonding Primer for areas subject to automotive tires, heavy foot traffic, or persistent exposure to moisture, or in areas previously treated for efflorescence or laitance.
