11 Best Paint For Concrete Walls In Basement | Reviews + Tested

While this seems easy enough, most homes lose their valuation because people remain ignorant about painting the basement, garage, or poolside. Since they are not the eye-catching areas of your house, it's natural to be negligent. 

However painting the basement significantly improves the life of the walls, keeping the house in fine shape. Understandably, the next question is what kind of paint to use. 

To help you, we've decided to review the 11 best paints for the concrete walls in the basement. These paints are usually water or oil-based solutions and possess incredible durability, making it worth the investment. 

So, let's put on our painting gear and dive into our first product review. 

Whether you want to create a cozy ambiance or add a pop of color, this list will guide you toward finding the perfect paint to revitalize your basement. So, without further ado, here's the list of the 11 Best Paints For Concrete Walls In the Basement.

1. KILZ L377611 - Best for Wall Durability

KILZ is a well-known brand in the painting world, producing premium-quality products at affordable prices. Its latest paint is incredibly durable, offers fantastic coverage, and has a satin finish, giving it the edge over other brands. There's a lot to like about it, solving most of your painting needs.

To choose the best concrete wall paint, you'll need to consider durability. That's why this product is one of the top choices of customers, thanks to its water-based solution. You can apply it in hard-to-reach areas, and given its resistance to cracking and blistering, rest assured that it will last a long time. 

But that's not the only thing that it's resistant to. We found that it retains its color even under extreme heat and doesn't stain due to chemical or oil spills. What's more, its durability means that it's also exceptionally versatile, allowing you to use it on masonry, brick, and stone. 

After applying it, users can enjoy its satin finish, meaning it's easy to get a smooth coating on different surfaces. It dries in under two hours, allowing consumers to recoat the walls in four hours our findings show.

The paint takes longer to dry, and you'll need to wait approximately four hours to apply the second coat. That said, you'll have to find a separate spot to keep your car for a couple of days because it often starts peeling under hot tires.  

2. INSL-X SU092209A-01 - Best Anti-Slip Solution

This product is extremely reliable and safe for long-lasting use. Although it doesn't have sufficient coverage, you get an even coating on most surfaces to restore the quality of your basement or garage. Hence, if you have money to spend, this might be the most suitable option.

We mentioned that the KILZ L377611 peels under car tires, and this is a problem that the INSL-X SU092209A-01 solves. Unsurprisingly, the paint is highly durable, with the manufacturer focusing on skid resistance for safety and longevity. 

We found that the color doesn't fade even after years of heavy use, thanks to its abrasion and water-resistant properties. Apart from the basement, you can apply it to the stairs, walkways, and patios of the property, guaranteeing safety for your family. 

What's more, users can use it to seal cracks and blisters, thanks to its fast-drying nature, reducing the waiting time to apply the second coat. Also, one gallon of paint can cover 80-120 square feet, ensuring that you get an even coating. 

Since it doesn't have a wide coverage area, you'll need to apply multiple coats of paint, which increases the overall cost. Also, the solution is rather thick, and it takes time to reduce it to the required viscosity. Naturally, a single can of this paint isn't sufficient for painting large areas. 

3. KILZ L378601 - Best for Cracks Coverage

Our second product from KILZ has made certain improvements, generating mostly positive reviews from prospective buyers. We loved its quick drying time and matte finish, ensuring that your home stands out. And, thanks to its speckled coating, you get a unique appearance on most surfaces. 

For starters, it's suitable for indoor and outdoor projects, allowing you to apply a beautiful coat of color to patios, decks, and porches. It livens up the walls and helps you repair cracks without any hassle. 

Speaking of repairs, you won't be able to fill in large gaps. Instead, the paint covers hairline cracks, measuring 3mm, preventing damage from debris, grease, and hot tires. Now, once you apply the coat, its skid-resistant properties kick in, making the pool and walkways safer. 

However, you'll need to purchase some additional components, like a ¼-inch roller cover, which has strong adhesive properties. It will hold the paint together, preventing fading while covering 50 square feet in one gallon. 

Overall, your concrete surfaces will get a nice facelift, improving the valuation of the property. 

Like the earlier model, this product too suffers due to its reduced coverage, but you do get a matte finish which is a silver lining. So, whether or not this is the right product depends on your preference. But a more serious issue is that it fails to mask the previous wall color. 

4. Liquid Rubber 20602 - Best Eco-Friendly Option

The Liquid Rubber 20602 features a sealant membrane, allowing the paint to spread over most surfaces smoothly. While the coverage is nothing substantial, it's not bad either, and we assure you that this water-based solution meets most of your painting needs. Particularly pleasing is that it's eco-friendly, meaning it doesn't have any harmful effects.

If you're looking to add an extra layer of protection, this is the ideal product for you. It's durable and has a protective finish, making it suitable for painting shower liners, wood, metal, and basements. Like the KILZ L378601, we found that it also has a coverage area of 50 square feet. 

Interestingly, it has a sealant membrane which helps the solution spread evenly across all surfaces. The sealant offers 900% elongation to cover all cracks and blisters, allowing the paint to adhere strongly to the surface. 

Moreover, it's easy to use and doesn't require mixing. All you need to do is use a brush, roller, or paint sprayer and apply the necessary coating to different surfaces. Also, if there's paint left behind, simply close the lid tightly and store it for future use. 

Finally, it's eco-friendly, and its water-based solution is free of solvents and harmful odors.

One downside is that it has a higher viscosity, meaning thicker coats. Naturally, this impacts the coverage area, and you'll have to reduce the mixture or apply multiple strokes with the roller to get the desired thickness. Understandably, painting becomes messy, and cleaning the splashes of color is another hassle. 

5. FIXALL F06570-1 - Best Skid-Resistant Option

When it comes to acrylic paints, FIXALL has developed an innovative solvent that adheres to most surfaces. It's also incredibly safe, perfect for painting the garage or poolside. And users will especially like that it's available in numerous colors, ensuring your home gets a vibrant appearance.

So far, we've looked at several water-based solutions, so it's time to change things up a bit. Our next recommendation is a textured acrylic paint that evenly spreads over most surfaces for a durable finish. Why do we say so? Because it has anti-skid properties, creating a high-grip finish so that your walls remain in top shape for a long time. 

It's the perfect option for painting high-traffic areas, delivering safety to keep your family safe. So, your car won't skid in the garage, nor will you lose your footing around the poolside. In fact, users have also used it for painting basketball courts. 

You'll find that it's suitable for domestic and commercial purposes, and available in multiple colors. Also, it's easy to use but always clean the surface before playing the first coat. Then, spread it over the desired area with a brush or roller before leaving it to dry. 

Although it's available in several colors, the actual colors may vary slightly from the description. For instance, users reported that the green color often has a bluish tinge which is unwelcome. However, once you choose the right color, it would be best to carry out regular maintenance to prevent scuffing. 

6. Rust Bullet 850154005631

It offers nothing fancy, but this model is highly reliable and perfect for indoor/outdoor painting projects. We loved its wide coverage and durable mixture, which reduces the need for prepping the walls. Understandably, it's convenient for professionals and first-timers alike, leading to growing interest among buyers.

To paraphrase Hamlet - variety, thy name is Rust Bullet. Very few concrete painting solutions offer so many colors for you to try out, ensuring that the basement receives a much-needed facelift. Moreover, it's perfect for use in garages, patios, sidewalks, and pools, making it the go-to option for many people. 

But why so? This is because it's resistant to scratching, rust, and chemical solutions, meaning there's no need to worry about peeling. You can reverse your car into the garage without worrying that the hot tires will impact the color. Also, it adds to safety and reduces the chances of skidding. 

It's the perfect solution for indoor and outdoor use, having a 300 square feet per gallon coverage area. Usually, it takes two coats to get an even coating, depending on the solution's texture, porosity, and concentration. 

Lastly, you can apply it with a brush, roller, or sprayer. 

We noticed that the paint creates a ripple effect in certain spots, which might be due to the texture of your choice of painting equipment. Hence, it would be best to smoothen the areas with a brush. Besides, it has a strong odor upon opening the lid, but it dissipates soon enough. 

7. Eco Advance EACON16CON

As the name suggests, you don't need to worry about toxic chemicals or foul odors affecting the health of those around you. Eco Advance has developed a liquid concentrate formula that is extremely durable, protecting against the weather along with mold, mildew, and stains. If you're interested to know more, read the following section.

Users living in moist conditions, and experiencing frequent rainfall, will love the performance of this liquid concentrate solution. It's waterproof, and a one-gallon container covers most surfaces smoothly to deliver a commercial-grade waterproof coating. Overall, it has a coverage area of 240 square feet suitable for painting basements and garages. 

Apart from concrete, you can use it on brick, stucco, stone, and pavers without any hassle. You'll also find that it's incredibly durable, protecting against mold, mildew, oil, and stains, thereby retaining its color for a long time. Plus, it's easy to clean, and all you need is some cleaning agent and a wet cloth based on our firsthand experience with the product.

Unlike the Rust Bullet 850154005631, Eco Advance has developed a non-toxic, non-flammable formula. So, it's not harmful to your pets, plants, or kids, keeping your family safe. 

Finally, the breathable solution sticks to the surface, resisting peeling or scratches. 

You'll need to apply more than one coat to get the desired result. The good part is that you can use any equipment of your choice without any hassle. However, do add sand to the mixture because it remains slippery even after the paint dries. 

8. Armor AR5005GAL

If you're looking to purchase paint with a glossy finish, this can of paint from Armor fits your requirements perfectly. It's an acrylic-based solution, adhering to most surfaces to deliver unmatched performance. So, your home will look good, and it will be a long time before the need for repainting arises.

Another acrylic-based option that's captured the imagination of users is the Armor AR5005GAL. Acrylic paints have a fantastic texture, and their breathable solvent increases their adhesive properties. So, it can penetrate high solids, holding onto the surface strongly for long-lasting performance. 

Speaking of durability, it can withstand sudden variations in temperature without cracking, keeping the walls in top shape. Moreover, it's UV-resistant, prevents abrasion, and doesn't peel even if you drive a hot tire over the surface. Long story short, it retains its high-gloss finish, infusing life into dull surfaces. 

We believe that you'll need to apply at least two coats, guaranteeing a lifespan of 4-5 years. You can also apply it on surfaces already having an acrylic coating or on unsealed surfaces. But for the best results, it would be best to use it poured and stamped on concrete or pavers. 

What's more, it's suitable for indoor and outdoor painting projects. 

Our only issue with this paint is that it's sticky and takes longer to dry. Moreover, you need to clean the wall of impurities and ensure that dust and dirt don't gather on the surface while the paint is drying. Also, refrain from using the garage if you paint the floor.  

9. Rust-Oleum 225380

Solely, in terms of coverage, this product tops the charts compared to other models, but there are other factors to consider. Thankfully, we weren't disappointed and found that it has advanced acrylic technology, complete with a satin finish. So, you can brighten up your home with vibrant shades that won't fade quickly.

In terms of coverage, few products can match the performance of the Rust-Oleum 225380. One gallon of this solution can cover 844-847 square feet, making it affordable and delivering a smooth coating. Hence, you can use it on interior and exterior surfaces by applying the solution with a brush, sprayer, or roller. 

The paint has an eye-catching satin finish, thanks to its advanced acrylic technology. You'll find that it's resistant to UV rays, weather, or chemical stains, ensuring that the color remains intact. Moreover, it can handle changing weather conditions, and you can rest assured that the color won't fade during the monsoon. 

Since it's suitable for painting the garage, the engineers have ensured that hot car tires don't peel the color from the surface. But there is a chance that it could gather impurities. So, all you need to do is clean the surface with soap and warm water. 

We found that it isn't available in various colors and you can only choose from a few options. However, even if you find the color suitable, there could be slight variations compared to the description. So, keep this in mind before making a purchase. 

10. AQUA-X P1101G

Up next, the AQUA-X P1101G is a versatile model suitable for numerous tasks. Be it painting the garage, driveway, or patio; you will get an even coverage to restore the quality of your home. Moreover, it has high resistance against the weather, ensuring that the walls won't deteriorate after a couple of years. 

This concrete sealer from AQUA-X is perfect for professional painters, delivering a clean yet natural feel. You can use it on concrete driveways, unglazed cement tiles, patio pavers, and cast concrete, enhancing the durability of any surface. Added to that, it looks good so that your property stands out. 

What's more, it's a water-based solution, protecting against stains, spalling, freeze-thaw, and pitting. Hence, even if the walls gather impurities, cleaning it won't be a hassle. You won't need to spend much time on maintenance, and a wet cloth works wonders, helping retain its natural color. 

Compared to other products, this unit doesn't have any harmful chemicals or a foul odor, keeping you and your family safe. It's perfect for painting your home while also maintaining the health of your plants and pets. 

Users said that they needed to apply multiple coats to get a smooth texture. But that's the least of your troubles because different areas of the property take different times to dry. Meaning, that there might be one wet surface while another part of the garage may be dry and ready for the second coating. 

11. United Gilsonite 23813

Engineers at United Gilsonite have developed this modern paint with advanced epoxy technology, which won't crack or blister under stress. We loved its semi-gloss appearance, proving waterproof and delivering safety in high-traffic areas. Additionally, the paint doesn't go to waste, and you can store it for later use. 

This paint has advanced epoxy technology for long-lasting benefits, offering greater protection and durability. You can rest assured that seasonal changes won't lead to cracking or blistering, allowing you to seal wall imperfections without any hassle. 

We found that it's highly resistant to water and impurities, meaning even chemical spills won't harm your walls. Not surprisingly, it retains its color and won't fade easily, but we still recommend that you repaint the surface after 3-5 years. Until then, if there's paint left over, you can store the container for future use. 

Moreover, this paint is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, delivering a semi-gloss appearance to spruce up your property. What's more, maintenance is easy, and you can scrub the surface with water without worrying about peeling or scratching. 

Overall it ticks all the right boxes, and you're sure to get value for money. 

It's essential that you prep the walls before applying the first coat, ensuring that it's clean and free of impurities. Additionally, while storing the leftover paint, close the can tightly to prevent leakage, and it would be best to secure the opening with clips. 

What is the Best Paint For Concrete Walls?

Outlined below is a comparative chart, specifically designed to highlight the distinct attributes of the top-ranked paints for concrete walls. The table's evaluative dimensions include the coverage area, finish type, volume of paint, drying time, and whether the product is waterproof, mold and mildew-resistant, and UV resistant.

Buying Guide for the Best Paint for Concrete Walls in Basement

It's time now to discuss some of the essential characteristics of concrete paints, ensuring that you can choose between two similar products. So, make a note of the following points to purchase the paint most suitable to your needs. 

• Durability

When choosing paint for your concrete walls, durability is key. Concrete surfaces are generally exposed to more wear and tear than other materials, so the paint must be able to withstand these conditions for an extended period of time. High-quality paints can offer a variety of protection against external conditions like temperature fluctuations, moisture, and UV damage. Some paints also have specific additives that can resist hot car tire marks, which is particularly useful in a garage setting. Opt for water or oil-based solutions that are specifically formulated for concrete surfaces to ensure long-lasting performance and minimal maintenance.

• Low-Maintenance

Maintenance is another crucial factor to consider. The best paints for concrete walls are those that require minimal upkeep, leaving you more time to focus on other projects. This means the paint should be easy to clean and resist stains and dirt. Most high-quality paints for concrete surfaces will only require occasional cleaning with a wet cloth and a mild cleaning agent to remove surface dirt or impurities. Paints with a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish can also be beneficial for maintenance, as they allow for easier surface cleaning compared to matte finishes.

• Cost

Cost can be a significant factor in your decision, but it's important to consider the overall value rather than just the upfront price per gallon. A less expensive paint might require multiple coats or frequent repainting, which could end up costing more in the long run. Conversely, a higher-priced paint might offer superior coverage, requiring fewer coats and providing longer-lasting results, offering better value over time. Additionally, consider the viscosity of the paint, as this can affect how much product is needed to cover your surface area adequately. Thicker paints tend to provide better coverage, potentially saving you money by reducing the number of coats needed.

• Acoustic Considerations

When choosing the best paint for your concrete walls, one factor that's often overlooked is its potential contribution to the acoustics of the space. Particularly in a basement, where sound can easily bounce off hard surfaces and create an echo, the type of paint you use can subtly affect the level of sound transmission and reverberation.

Some specialty paints contain small, sound-absorbing fillers that can partially absorb and diffuse sound waves, reducing the echo and noise levels in a room. While these paints can slightly improve a room's acoustics, they should be viewed as part of a broader soundproofing strategy rather than a standalone solution. It's important to remember that the effect of such paints on soundproofing is often relatively minor compared to other soundproofing measures.

Therefore, while considering paint for your concrete walls, it's a good idea to complement it with other soundproofing methods. You can incorporate sound-absorbing materials in your furniture, use thick rugs and carpets, or apply a layer of drywall with sound-absorbing compounds.

For more detailed steps on how to create a sound barrier and truly soundproof your walls, consider consulting comprehensive resources that delve deeper into the topic. Incorporating these methods will help you not just create a visually appealing space, but also control sound transmission, enhancing the overall ambiance of your room.

How do I prepare the concrete walls before painting?

Before painting concrete walls in the basement, it’s crucial to prepare the surface properly. Start by cleaning the walls thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or grease. Fill in any cracks or holes with an appropriate filler and allow it to dry. Consider using a concrete primer to enhance adhesion and promote a smoother finish.

Can I use regular interior paint for concrete walls in the basement?

It is generally not recommended to use regular interior paint for concrete walls in the basement. Regular interior paint may not adhere well to the concrete surface and may not provide the necessary durability and moisture resistance required for basement environments. It is best to use paints specifically designed for concrete or masonry surfaces.

How many coats of paint should I apply to concrete walls in the basement?

The number of coats of paint needed for concrete walls in the basement can vary depending on factors such as the color you’re painting over and the desired coverage. However, it is generally recommended to apply at least two coats of paint to ensure even coverage and a long-lasting finish.

Can I paint over the existing paint on the concrete walls in the basement?

Yes, you can paint over existing paint on concrete walls in the basement. However, it’s essential to ensure that the existing paint is in good condition, properly adhered to the surface, and free from peeling or flaking. If there are any issues with the existing paint, it’s recommended to remove it before applying a new coat of paint.

We hope you now have all the information when it comes to painting basement concrete walls. 

Do you feel confident about making a purchase? If you're still in doubt, let us assist you by highlighting our favorite options in different categories. If you're looking for durable paint, we recommend opting for the KILZ L377611. 

Apart from that, the INSL-X SU092209A-01 is incredibly reliable and delivers maximum safety around your property. That's all there is to know about painting concrete walls; it's time now to bid you goodbye. 

Before signing off, we'll leave you with this tip: it would help if you clean the walls every month to remove dirt and debris. This will keep the color intact and maintain a vibrant appearance. 

Until next time when we'll be back with more exciting product reviews, take care, and see you soon!