When choosing paint for basement walls, it’s important to consider factors like moisture resistance, mildew resistance, and ease of cleaning. The basement tends to be damp and humid, so the right basement wall paint should stand up to those conditions. The best basement wall paints will have primers incorporated to help seal porous concrete and block walls. Top choices include epoxy paint, masonry paint, and latex paint formulated for basements.
Consider Moisture and Humidity
Basements are prone to moisture issues because they are partially or fully underground. Even if you don’t have water seepage, basements tend to be more humid than other areas of the home. When moisture hits painted walls, it can cause the paint to blister, peel, crack, or flake over time. Choosing a paint formulated to resist moisture is key for long-lasting results in a basement.
Look for paints made specifically for basements or masonry applications. These will have binders and pigments designed to expand and contract with temperature/humidity changes without failing. Epoxy paints offer excellent moisture resistance. Many latex paints for basements also contain epoxy resins to improve moisture resistance.
Proper prep is also important. Clean walls, etch glossy concrete, fill cracks, and priming helps paint adhere. Let new concrete cure fully before painting. Address any moisture sources rather than trapping moisture under paint.
Mildew Resistance
In damp basements, mildew growth can be an issue on painted walls over time. To limit mildew growth, look for paints with EPA-registered mildewcide additives. Both latex and epoxy paints are available with mildewcides added.
Also important is choosing a paint and sheen that can be easily cleaned if mildew does start growing on the surface. Flat paints are hardest to clean. Eggshell or satin sheens clean better. Semi-gloss is ideal for washability. Epoxy paints are inherently easy to clean and resistant to mildew.
Proper prep is key. Clean any existing mildew off walls before painting. Fill cracks and gaps that could allow moisture behind paint. Improve ventilation if possible.
Ease of Cleaning
Basement walls tend to get dirty faster than other walls due to humidity, dust, and lack of ventilation. Choose an easy to clean sheen like eggshell, satin, or semi-gloss. Flat paint is hard to clean.
Some latex paints add silicone or other resins to improve washability. Epoxy paints are very smooth and easily cleaned with soap and water.
Avoid textured paints in basements. The texture holds onto dirt and is harder to clean. Smooth coatings clean much easier.
Primer Seals Porous Surfaces
Basement walls are often bare concrete block or poured concrete. These porous surfaces allow moisture to seep through. Unsealed, they also allow stains to penetrate and paint adhesion to fail.
Using the right primer is key to seal concrete and improve paint bonding. Look for specialty basement primers from brands like Kilz and Zinsser. Water-based epoxy primers provide excellent sealing and adhesion. Some latex paints for basements have primers added.
For heavily porous block walls, use a thin coat of masonry sealer before priming and painting. Always read the manufacturer’s recommendations. Proper priming is essential for paint success on basement walls.
Epoxy Paint
Epoxy paint provides the best protection for interior basement walls. Epoxy forms a thick, plastic-like coating that seals surfaces from moisture penetration. It adheres tightly to resist peeling and cracking. The hard resin coating is also easy to clean by washing.
Epoxy paint provides excellent resistance to moisture, condensation, and dew. It limits mildew growth. The durable surface stands up well to kids, pets, and other abuses. Epoxy paint comes in many colors. It can be tinted to any custom color.
The biggest downside is that epoxy paint contains solvents. It requires careful prep and application. Ventilation is mandatory. Epoxy paint also costs significantly more than latex paint.
Masonry Paint
For painting bare concrete and block foundation walls, masonry paint is a top choice. Formulated for alkaline surfaces, masonry paint adheres well to cement and concrete. It works on cinder block, poured concrete, stucco, and more.
Masonry paint contains acrylic resins to bind well and resist peeling, cracking, and fading. It includes agents to limit efflorescence. Masonry paint resists moisture and mildew. Many brands feature primers to seal and prime in one step.
Masonry paint provides a breathable coating. It comes in flat, eggshell, and satin sheens. Masonry paint is cheaper than epoxy but provides good durability and performance. It’s easy to apply using basic painting tools and techniques.
Latex Basement Paint
For already painted basement walls in good condition, latex basement paint can provide an affordable option. Latex paint won’t seal as well as epoxy or masonry paint. But top latex brands resist moisture, humidity, and mildew.
Look for mold/mildew resistant latex paint. Waterproofing resins improve moisture resistance. Many feature primers to help adhesion and sealing. Latex dries faster than epoxy for quicker recoating. It provides good durability and hiding power.
Use a dehumidifier and ventilate the basement when possible. For unfinished walls, use a masonry sealer first for better moisture protection. Latex paint cleans up easily with water and dries to a durable, scrubbable finish.
Conclusion
Choosing the right paint for basement walls requires considering moisture resistance, mildew resistance, and cleanability. Epoxy paint provides the best sealing and protection, but at a higher cost. For concrete and masonry, masonry paint offers better penetration and adhesion vs standard latex. Latex paint works well over already painted walls in good condition. Improving ventilation and using dehumidifiers also helps any paint last longer on basement walls. Addressing moisture issues is key before painting.
| Paint Type | Moisture Resistance | Mildew Resistance | Cleanability | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epoxy | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Expensive |
| Masonry | Very Good | Very Good | Good | Budget-Friendly |
| Latex for Basements | Good | Good | Good | Affordable |
