The Best Types of Paint for CMU Block Walls

Concrete cinder block walls are strong and sturdy—but they can be an eyesore. For commercial, industrial, and residential property owners with CMU (concrete masonry unit) block walls, you might be wondering how or if you can paint them.
The answer is yes! You can absolutely paint CMU block walls to give them a more polished look that aligns with your interior design goals. Before you drive down to your local paint store, it’s important to understand what types of paint you can use on CMU block walls.
At
VanDerKolk Painting, we aim to provide the highest-quality service and advice to
our West Michigan residents. So, before you grab your paintbrush and start painting your CMU block walls, we’re diving into what paint is best for these porous walls.
Should You Paint a Concrete Wall?
There is some debate online about whether or not it’s a good idea to paint a concrete wall. Those who do not recommend painting concrete walls express concerns about breathability and moisture trapping. While it’s true that moisture can be an issue, especially in humid environments, there are ways to accommodate it!
CMU block walls are porous, which means moisture can become trapped inside. If there is a layer of paint, it can be difficult for the moisture to escape. However, with the right sealant and primer, this isn’t something you need to worry about.
At VanDerKolk Painting, we believe you can absolutely paint concrete walls—when it’s done correctly!
Best Types of Paint for CMU Block Walls
Paint is developed for specific projects. That being said, there are three types of paint that you can use for cinder block walls.
- Masonry Paint - this type of paint is specifically formulated for porous walls to allow them to breathe and resist moisture efflorescence (white, chalky residue). It is best used on exterior walls.
- Elastomeric Paint - this type of paint is durable, flexible, and resists peeling while preventing water infiltration. It is best used in high-moisture environments like basements.
- Acrylic Latex Paint - this paint is ideal for interior CMU block walls and provides a smooth, polished finish.
When choosing the best paint for CMU block walls, you must consider where the wall is located—interior or exterior—and the moisture levels of the environment.
How to Paint Concrete Cinder Block Walls
Remember, painting CMU block walls is only a good idea if you do it correctly! Below is a step-by-step guide for using the paint we recommended above.
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Your concrete cinder block wall may be in bad shape, especially if it is outdoors. Properly preparing the wall is the best way to ensure the paint lasts and looks great.
Clean the surface well to remove dirt, debris, and dust. Use TSP (trisodium phosphate) or a mild detergent and a wire brush to scrub away grime.
After the wall has dried from cleaning, it’s time to identify any cracks or holes and remove them. If you notice any flaking material, remove them so you have a smooth surface to work with.
Step 2: Apply Primer
Applying masonry bonding and filling primer is the most important part of painting CMU block walls. This ensures the porous walls are sealed to prevent moisture from building up. If you’re working in a high-humidity environment, opt for a water-resistant masonry primer.
Priming the wall will also help the paint adhere to the surface better and
prevent cracking and peeling for a more durable finish.
You can apply primer with a thick roller and carefully touch up the edges and corners with a paintbrush.
Step 3: Paint the Wall
Using a paint roller, paint the wall starting from top to bottom to avoid dripping. You will want to apply at least two coats of your selected paint to ensure the color is vibrant and the paint creates a durable layer on the cement.
Ensure the first coat of paint has dried fully before adding the second coat. Depending on the type of paint you use, you may have to wait overnight before adding the second coat.
Step 4: Add a Topcoat Sealer (interior only)
For interior CMU block walls, we recommend adding a topcoat sealer. It provides a more durable finish than normal paint while also adding a high-sheen finish to further enhance the wall’s aesthetic.
When to Hire a Professional to Paint CMU Block Walls
It is possible to paint CMU block walls yourself, but the task is often more difficult than most people expect. Since cement is a porous surface, applying a primer and painting smoothly can be challenging. And don’t forget, the primer is the most important part of ensuring the wall is sealed and protected from moisture!
If you need a cinder block wall painted, we recommend calling the professionals at VanDerKolk Painting. You’re guaranteed to have a high-quality paint job done by experienced painters.
VanDerKolk Painting is Here for All Your Painting Needs
Whether you need a cinder block wall painted in your warehouse, school, or basement, VanDerKolk Painting is here to help with all of your painting needs!
Our team of experienced painters offers white glove service, guaranteeing precision and professionalism. We’ve served the Grand Rapids area for more than 30 years, helping
home andbusiness owners enhance the aesthetics of their buildings while also adding a layer of protection with the right paint.
Contact us for a FREE estimate on your next painting project today!
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