Cinder blocks can be used in both the interior and exterior of a home.Cinder blocks can be painted to match the color of your home.The process of painting can be broken down into three simple parts.
Step 1: Masonry cleaner is used to remove powder deposits.
Cinder blocks that have been exposed to water through a leak will develop a white powder coating on the outside.The deposits can be removed with a cleaner and scrub brush.Before washing the walls, allow the cleaned areas to dry completely.You can mix the masonry cleaner with water in a mixture and use a pressure washer to clean the cinder blocks.Fix the leak before painting to avoid future deposits.
Step 2: Use a knife or scraper to remove paint.
Cinder blocks are mostly gray or taupe, so if your blocks have a shine to them, they are probably painted.Lift off the paint with a scraper.As much of the paint is removed as possible, chip away small portions at a time.After you remove most of the paint, don't worry about small pieces that are still there.You can wash them off with water or paint them.
Step 3: The blocks can be washed with a pressure washer or hose.
If you don't have access to a pressure washer, using one on a mild pressure level will get the job done quickly.You can use a garden hose to spray the blocks and then scrub them with a brush.If you want to clean a cinder block, avoid using soap in the water.
Step 4: After getting wet, allow the blocks to dry for 4 hours.
If it is applied to wet cinder blocks, the primer won't stick.If you are working inside, open the windows or turn on the fans to let the cinder blocks dry out.Be patient.You should wait another hour if the blocks aren't dry after 4 hours.
Step 5: The cracks should be sealed with a caulk.
If you want to find cracks in the cinder block, buy a tube of caulk at the hardware or home improvement store.Push the caulk to the tip of the tube with your hands if you don't have a caulking gun.Apply the caulk liberally, covering the joint completely.Run a razor over the caulk to flatten the joint and blend it with the rest of the block for a smooth finish.This method can be used to seal cracks between cinder blocks.
Step 6: You can choose a bonding and filling primer.
At the hardware or home improvement store, look for latex acrylic-based primers.The best way to fill in cracks and pores in cinder blocks is to use these.If you want to paint an area with a water leak, look for a waterproof primer.Cinder blocks can be smooth or split-face.To find the total that you will be painting before you go to the store, you need to know the height and length of each wall.If you want a recommendation on the amount of paint you should buy, ask the sales associate.
Step 7: Nap rollers are used to apply a coat of primer.
When applying primer, use long strokes.If the blocks are rough, you should use a 0.25 in (0.64 cm) nap roller.If you are painting over with a different color, you will need one coat of primer.A second coat on the blocks will ensure the paint sticks and prevent wear over time.
Step 8: Allow the primer to dry before painting.
The primer needs to be completely dry before you apply the next coat.After 24 hours, check on the blocks.They should be completely dry to the touch.
Step 9: Purchase latex paint.
Cinder blocks need a paint that can hold up to wear and tear.The smoothest application for smooth and split-face cinder blocks can be achieved with latex paint.To determine how much paint to buy, use the same area measurements that you used to purchase primer.Ask a store associate how much paint they recommend for the area, which will vary based on the brand.If you need to touch up the paint in the future, buy a half-gallon of extra paint at the hardware store.If the paint will be on blocks, choose a paint that is waterproof to prevent damage from the elements.
Step 10: Apply a coat of paint using a nap roller.
It is important to work slowly and with a little bit of paint at a time to ensure an even application and prevent dripping, which will be visible on the cinder blocks.Work vertical sections with long strokes of the roller.If you try to avoid overlap sections, they will take longer to dry and give an even look to the first coat.If you need to paint smaller areas, use a nylon brush.
Step 11: Allow 12 hours for the first coat to dry.
If you are working indoors, keep the room wellventilated with fans and make sure the paint is completely dry after 12 hours.If you want to touch the paint gently, use a rag or gloved finger.There shouldn't be a transfer.If you live in a humid area, you might need to wait up to 18 hours before the paint dries.
Step 12: Apply a second coat of paint using a nap roller.
You want this to be the same as the first coat.Work slowly, taking a little bit of paint on the roller at a time and applying in long, smooth strokes.It is possible to see your brush strokes on smooth cinder blocks.
Step 13: Allow the paint to dry for 24 hours.
If you are working indoors, keep the roomventilated with fans.Touch the paint with a gloved hand or rag to see if it is dry.There shouldn't be a transfer.You can apply a third coat to the blocks if you want better coverage.Wait at least 12 hours before applying a third coat.