Painted concrete is always attractive compared to leaving it to bear. But painting concrete, especially at home, in not just a matter of beauty and style. Paint has protective properties too.
When choosing concrete paint, color choices and finishes are important considerations, because you want the surface to be transformed after painting.
You should take it a notch high by considering protective properties such as mildew and mold resistance, waterproofing, rust, peel, fade, crack-resistance, and many more.
In our concrete paint review, we present you the leading brands in offering those features alongside style, for your home concrete painting projects.
In this post:
- 10 Best Concrete Paints – Review
- 1. Rust Bullet 850154005716 – Best Overall Concrete Paint
- 2. Rust-Oleum 7214502 – Best Budget Concrete Paint
- 3. Colored Epoxies 10002 – Best Glossy Concrete Paint
- 4. Rust-Oleum 203007 – Best Basement Floor Coating Paint
- 5. Eco Advance EACON16CON – Best Concrete Waterproofer
- 6. Kilz L378601 – Best Decorative Concrete Paint
- 7. Diamond Brite Paint 3100 – All-purpose Concrete Paint
- 8. Kilz L341711 – Alkali-resistant Concrete Paint
- 9. Kilz L394811 – Concrete Resurfacing Paint
- 10. RTG RTG-0826-K – Fast-drying Concrete Floor Paint
- How to Buy the Best Concrete Paint
- How to Paint a Concrete Surface
- Conclusion
10 Best Concrete Paints – Review
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Rust Bullet 850154005716 (Best Overall) |
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 | 2. Rust-Oleum 7214502 (Best Budget) |
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 | 3. Colored Epoxies 10002 (Best Glossy Finish) |
| |
 | 4. Rust-Oleum 203007 (Best Basement Floor Coating Paint) |
| |
 | 5. Eco Advance EACON16CON (Best Waterproofer) |
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 | 6. Kilz L378601 (Best Decorative) |
| |
 | 7. Diamond Brite Paint 3100 (For All-purpose) |
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 | 8. Kilz L341711 (Alkali-resistant) |
| |
 | 9. Kilz L394811 (Resurfacing Capacity) |
| |
 | 10. RTG RTG-0826-K (Fast-drying) |
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PRODUCT |
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1. Rust Bullet 850154005716 (Best Overall)
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2. Rust-Oleum 7214502 (Best Budget)
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3. Colored Epoxies 10002 (Best Glossy Finish)
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4. Rust-Oleum 203007 (Best Basement Floor Coating Paint)
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5. Eco Advance EACON16CON (Best Waterproofer)
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6. Kilz L378601 (Best Decorative)
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7. Diamond Brite Paint 3100 (For All-purpose)
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8. Kilz L341711 (Alkali-resistant)
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9. Kilz L394811 (Resurfacing Capacity)
|
10. RTG RTG-0826-K (Fast-drying)
|
1. Rust Bullet 850154005716 – Best Overall Concrete Paint
Photo: Rust Bullet
- Volume: 0.25 gallons
- Coverage (sq. ft./gal.): Up to 300
- Number of Colors: 18
Paint that doesn’t require a basecoat, topcoat or even priming is very rare. Rust Bullet 850154005716, our best overall concrete paint, bears all these qualities, and many more.
The premier concrete, and garage floor paint, is loved by many because it gets the job while requiring little or no surface preparation from the user.
As far as withstanding stresses go, the paint eliminates rust, and it is chemical and UV-resistant. It also performs well in resisting chipping and scratching especially because of its outstanding adhesion to concrete.
You’ll love the fact that this paint offers 18 color options you can choose from, meaning that even when you’re looking to paint multiple locations and surfaces, you can the same brands and maintain its consistent results.
We didn’t like the low 0.25-gallon capacity of the paint, which may not be adequate for large scale projects, but you can always get the larger quantities or several pints if needed.
Pros:
- Requires minimal surface preparation
- Resists UV, chemicals and scratching
- Effective rust killer
- Robust color options
Cons:
- Low capacity
2. Rust-Oleum 7214502 – Best Budget Concrete Paint
Photo: Rust-Oleum
- Volume: 0.25 gallons
- Coverage (sq. ft./gal.): Up to 400
- Number of Colors: 8
- Finish: Hammered metal
If you’re on a tight budget and won’t compromise the quality of concrete paint you want, then Rust-Oleum 7214502 is a great deal for you.
It is a weather and corrosion-resistant paint coating designed to protect both interior and exterior surfaces, especially those that are concrete-based.
We especially loved the special oil-based formula adopted by this paint. This formula has proven reliable in providing a durable protective coating and rust prevention, on the surfaces of the paint is applied.
Also, the hammered metal finish of this paint gives it excellent abrasion, chipping, and fading resistance. The finish does a good job of hiding surface flaws and imperfections, especially on metal.
For ease of application, this paint will not require any priming. Simply proceed to apply and allow it to dry.
During application, we noticed the Rust-Oleum 7214502 pain produces a pronounced odor, which may require you to wear a painting mask, and may take a while to subside.
Pros:
- Reasonable price
- Weather and corrosion-resistant
- Abrasion and chip-resistant finish
- Easy to apply
Cons:
- Strong odor during application
3. Colored Epoxies 10002 – Best Glossy Concrete Paint
Photo: Colored Epoxies
- Volume: 3 gallons
- Coverage (sq. ft./gal.): 125-170
- Number of Colors: 12
- Finish: Glossy
Sometimes we want our concrete floors to have a glossy paint finish, especially if these spaces are smooth in nature. Colored Epoxies 10002 delivers unrivaled glossiness, making it especially custom surfaces.
This non-water-based epoxy delivers professional mold and mildew resistance, and waterproofing on top of the impact-resistance durable gloss finish it offers.
Because the paint coating will neither crack nor chip, it has proven transformative when applied to concrete and resinous flooring. We even recommend it for use of other surfaces such as plywood and bar tops.
Also, this clear epoxy resin is VOHAP-free and has low VOC. It is UV-resistant and should be able to reliably withstand the fading and peeling associated with exposure to constant sunlight.
For optimal outcomes, each kit comes with comprehensive step-by-step instructions on how to mix and apply the resin.
Although this kit comes with 3 gallons, we feel that the price of Colored Epoxies 10002 is a bit on the higher side.
Pros:
- Superior glossy finish
- Effective mold and mildew resistance
- Free of VOHAP and low on VOC
- Reliable UV resistance
Cons:
- Pricey
4. Rust-Oleum 203007 – Best Basement Floor Coating Paint
Photo: Rust-Oleum
- Volume: 1.25 gallons
- Coverage (sq. ft./gal.): Up to 250
- Number of Colors: 2
- Finish: Satin
You can transform your basement into paying, working or even living spaces with the simple application of Rust-Oleum 203007, a premium basement floor coating epoxy.
This 2-part water-based epoxy is offered as a kit containing a 1-quart part A activator, and a 1-gallon part B base. Combined, you get a high-quality floor coating that does not require surface priming.
Because the epoxy coating is intended to make concrete surfaces human-friendly, it produces a satin finish that is low-odor and easy to clean. Simply use soap and water for regular cleaning.
Ease of cleaning is supported by the durable stain and water-resistant surface this coating helps creates. Its ability to resist abrasion means you can count on its long-lasting beauty.
As a bonus, you get decorative chips you can sprinkle on the paint. You also get a stir stick.
To obtain the most optimal results with Rust-Oleum 203007, however, you may need to wait a day or 2 for the paint to cure well. Some may find this long wait inconveniencing.
Pros:
- Premium epoxy coating
- Easy to clean
- Water and abrasion-resistant
- Bonus accessories
Cons:
- Not the fastest curing
5. Eco Advance EACON16CON – Best Concrete Waterproofer
Photo: Eco Advance
- Volume: 0.13 gallons
- Coverage (sq. ft./gal.): Up to 240
- Number of Colors: 1
- Finish: Clear
Waterproofing is a top priority when painting most surfaces, especially concrete ones. Effective waterproofing, such as that achieved by Eco Advance EACON16CON can help prevent the rapid degradation of paint jobs.
This waterproofed comes in the form of a concentrate, which you can dilute with clean water to create a commercial-grade solution that will cover an area of up to 240 square feet.
You can then proceed to apply the solution on new concrete and masonry, especially because it is vapor permeable (breathable). It also works great on brick, stucco, natural and synthetic stone, pavers, and more.
We especially recommend this waterproofer because of its eco-friendliness, which makes it safe for use around people, pets, and even plants.
It is a low-VOC and low-odor formulation that will be ready to walk on in less than 2 hours after application.
Even though Eco Advance EACON16CON is a reliable waterproof, it dries clear, unlike paint, which has a color.
Pros:
- Prevents substrate degradation
- Breathable and great for new concrete
- People, plant and animal-safe
- Low-VOC and low-odor
Cons:
- Dries clear with no color
6. Kilz L378601 – Best Decorative Concrete Paint
Photo: Kilz
- Volume: 1 gallon
- Coverage: 40-60 sq. ft./gal.
- Number of Colors: 2
- Finish: Matte
When choosing concrete paint, appearance is as important as performance in some applications. Kilz L378601 combines both by being not only a decorative paint but also reliably anti-slip.
This paint is specially formulated for garages, driveways, pool decks, patios, and porches concrete surfaces. It creates an attractive textured finish, especially when you go with the Tan option.
Besides decorative, this paint performs well in slip-resistance, which is achieved through the textured matte finish. It will minimize the occurrence of dirt and grease, 2 common stain types occurring especially on the garage concrete surfaces.
It has proven effective in filing hairline cracks common in concrete surfaces. In addition, we noticed the paint performs well in resisting hot tire pick up, another common challenge associated with driveway paints.
A disappointment you may encounter in Kilz L378601 is its long curing time. You will need to wait 72 hours before driving on the newly-painted surface, and 24 hours before the surface can take light foot traffic.
Pros:
- Decorative matte finish
- Superior anti-slip capacity
- Fills gaps in concrete
- Hot type pick-up resistance
Cons:
- Long curing time
7. Diamond Brite Paint 3100 – All-purpose Concrete Paint
Photo: Diamond Brite Paint
- Volume: 5 gallons
- Coverage (sq. ft./gal.): Up to 300
- Number of Colors: 12
- Finish: Glossy
Diamond Brite Paint 3100 is not your ordinary concrete paint. While it yields exceptional results when applied on the exterior and interior surfaces, this all-purpose concrete paint has proven reliable in transforming industrial flooring and machinery as well.
There are many surfaces this oil-enamel paint can be applied to. At home, you can use the paint on basements and garage floor surfaces, patios, and any other surfaces deserving a glossy finish.
It is especially great for machinery because the gloss enamel does an exceptional job in protecting interior and exterior surfaces from repeated rusting, abrasion, peeling, fading, cracking.
Because the paint yields an alkyd finish that is mildew-resistant, it will protect your home’s railing from damage by mildew and rust.
Also, you get at 12 robust color choices you can pick from and apply to different surfaces within your home.
The Diamond Brite Paint 3100 does, however, take quite some time to cure completely. In most cases we used the paint, its ideal drying time was at least 2 days.
Pros:
- Versatile multi-floor paint
- Protects machinery
- Mold and mildew resistant
- Many color choices
Cons:
- Takes long to cure
8. Kilz L341711 – Alkali-resistant Concrete Paint
Photo: Kilz
- Volume: 1 gallon
- Coverage (sq. ft./gal.): 250-400
- Number of Colors: 5
- Finish: Mildew-resistant
Kilz L341711 stands out from the rest of the pack because of its excellent alkali-resistance capacity.
This acrylic latex water-based paint is great for both interior and exterior concrete surfaces especially because it is alkali-resistant up to 12.0 pH, which is very impressive. Also, this property makes the painted surface easy to clean with just soap and water.
Expect the self-priming paint to produce a mildew-resistant finish on multiple surfaces, including properly-prepared rough and textured masonry, drywall, brick, and stucco. It was designed to accentuate all textured surfaces.
Coverage is also decent. 1 gallon of this pain will cover 250-400 square feet of area depending on the surface texture. It offers multiple application options including rolling, brushing and spray-on, for your convenience.
Even though Kilz L341711 is a great exterior/interior paint, it works great of most surfaces apart from floors. Therefore, one painting project may require you to explore alternative paints, if floors are part of the project.
Pros:
- Superior alkali resistance
- Easy to clean
- Supports multiple surfaces
- Decent coverage
Cons:
- Not ideal for floors
9. Kilz L394811 – Concrete Resurfacing Paint
Photo: Kilz
- Volume: 1 gallon
- Coverage (sq. ft./gal.): Up to 75
- Number of Colors: 2
- Finish: Smooth
Concrete resurfacing is a common project that many undertake to restore the beauty and vibrancy of their concrete surface. Kilz L394811 is just the right paint for your next resurfacing project.
The paint excels at resurfacing old beat-up concrete and wood and bringing them back to life because of its innovative solid redwood and chocolate brown color. These colors combine well with the paint’s 100% acrylic resin formula to excels at coating concrete.
You can count on the solid color coating to bridge cracks, mask imperfections, and achieve a uniform look when applied to multiple surfaces. It will also transform cracked horizontal/vertical wood, and composite surfaces on decks, porches, and patios and sidewalks.
Speaking of cracks, the concealing capacity of this paint allows it to fill splinters up to 1/4-inch to produce a smooth and slip-resistant finish.
Because 2 coats are recommended for optimal durability, we felt that the 75-feet-per-gallon coverage offered by Kilz L394811 is very low.
Pros:
- Superior resurfacing capacity
- Conceals wide cracks and splinters
- Coats multiple surfaces
- Smooth uniform finish
Cons:
- Low coverage area
10. RTG RTG-0826-K – Fast-drying Concrete Floor Paint
Photo: RTG
- Volume: 1 gallon
- Coverage (sq. ft./gal.): Up to 300
- Number of Colors: 1
- Finish: Satin
Nobody likes waiting hours and days for a freshly-painted surface to dry and resume normal use. RTG RTG-0826-K is a paint that eliminates this agonizing process with its fast-drying guarantee.
This 1-part water-based acrylic paint dries in record time, making it a great choice for the basement, garage, and workshop floors so that you can resume using them as soon as they are painted. It excels in high-traffic surfaces.
Even though this paint is recommended for surfaces subject to significant amounts of abrasion, it is ultra-durable and has a waterproof coating the is chemical peeling, crack, stain, and fade-resistant.
The low-odor and low-VOC properties of this paint make it an excellent pick for shop and indoor use, 2 of the most common areas occupied by human beings.
We liked the decent 300-square-feet coverage this paint offers. You can use it on interior concrete, masonry and wood surfaces, especially because it produces a soft satin finish.
RTG RTG-0826-K is, to the disappointment of many, built for use on interior surfaces only.
Pros:
- Dries fast and evenly
- Ideal for high-traffic floors
- Durable and waterproof
- Covers a large area
Cons:
- For interior use only
How to Buy the Best Concrete Paint
Photo: Kilz
1. Types of Paint for Concrete
There are many types of concrete paints, but the 4 we have listed below are the most common. Read further to learn more about them.
Acrylic: These paints are known for their excellent color retention and glossiness. The fast-drying paint is made using a pigment that’s suspending acrylic polymer emulsion.
Even though acrylic paints are water-soluble, they become water-resistant when dry. We recommend them for those looking for waterproof and vibrant concrete paint.
Epoxy: This paint contains epoxy resin, which a strong substance designed to make the final coat of paint resistant to mildew, chemicals, moisture, and physical damage.
It adheres well to concrete floors but takes a bit more time to dry compared with other paint types’ drying time. We recommend it for use on high-traffic surfaces such as garage floors.
Read More: The Best Epoxy Pool Paint
Latex: Today’s latex paints are loved for their durability, ease of application, and ease of cleaning, with just soap and water. Latex paint is ideal for recoating surfaces previously painted with latex.
It’s worth noting, however, that latex won’t adhere well to surfaces with high-gloss paint finishes.
Urethane: Featuring advanced plastic technology, urethane paint has proven superior to enamel paint in terms of durability, and the fact that it can be applied over enamel-painted surfaces.
It produces a good finish that dries quickly without running lines. It is also resistant to chipping and fading, even though the paint is pricier than the acrylic alternative.
2. Volume and Coverage
Concrete paint comes in different packages, especially in terms of volume, which further translates into the coverage area.
Gallons and quarts are the most common capacities used on concrete paints. While the quart is just 1/4 of a gallon, it is ideal for small surfaces and single coats, especially on surfaces that are not accessed frequently.
If you have an extensive concrete painting project, you can grab high-capacity and high-coverage paints such as the 5-gallon Diamond Brite Paint 31000, which will cover up to 1500 square feet of the surface.
3. Colors and Finish
For most people, especially homeowners, decorating is a top motivation for painting concrete surfaces. Thus, color and finish are usually at the top of the priority list.
Besides the regular white finish, there many other paint colors to choose from, especially if you get the Rust Bullet 850154005716, which offers at least 18 color choices.
As for paint finish, that will depend largely on the surface being painted, and your personal preferences. The most common finishes are matte, satin, textured, glossy, and clear.
4. Components
Paint, being a chemical-based formulation, contains many components, which should not be disregarded, especially you will be applying it on surfaces that human beings, animals and plants may interact with.
Most paints try to maintain low levels of components such as VOCs and sometimes go as far as removing VOHAPs entirely.
The components contained in your choice of paint may also depend on whether it is water or oil-based. Always check the paint’s component composition prior to purchasing it.
5. Easy to Apply
We describe paint as being easy to apply when the preparation and application procedures are straightforward and simplified.
Aside from custom formulations, most paints require simple mixing with water of another formulation, prior to applications.
You can think of paint being easy to apply when it supports multiple modes of application such as spray-on, brushing, or rolling, for your convenience.
How to Paint a Concrete Surface
Photo: Kilz
When it comes to painting concrete surfaces, mixing the paint, surface preparation, and application are the 3 most important stages you need to focus on. Let’s look at how to optimize the process.
Step 1: After getting the paint that’s ideal for the concrete surface you’ll be painting, proceed to clean this surface(s). You can opt to power wash it if the dirt or impurities are firmly attached.
If the surface has mold and algae, you can use mildewcide for cleaning. In case the surface is an interior one, you can opt to clean it with a wire brush or scrapper.
Step 2: Sometimes, surfaces could have defects and they may require repairs. Concrete patches are great at repairing any defects. Always follow the repair guidelines to do a thorough and effective job.
Step 3: Sealing and priming are the other important steps because almost all concrete surfaces require them. Sealing helps keep moisture from passing through the concrete, especially on basement floors. Note, however, that some paints don’t require priming of surfaces.
Step 4: After the priming/sealing has dried completely, apply the paint using any of the recommended application methods.
Brushes and rollers are a common application tool, but you need to adhere to the manufacturer-recommended specifications for optimized outcomes.
You can apply one or more coats, depending on your preference, and the paint in use. You should allow adequate drying between subsequent coats.
Conclusion
Concrete paint can help transform both interior and exterior surfaces in your home. It can also protect these surfaces from damage by multiple elements such as cracking, fading, peeling, water, mold, and mildew.
If you want the best of them all, get Rust Bullet 850154005716, our top pick for concrete paint. It requires little to no surface preparation, has superior protective capabilities, and offers many color options.
For those on a budget, Rust-Oleum 7214502 is a great pocket-friendly paint that is weather and corrosion-resistant.
We recommend the Diamond Brite Paint 3100 to those looking for a multi-surface, high-performance paint.