If you’re looking to spruce up your self leveled garage floor with a splash of color, the first thing you may need to know is if you can paint over it. Is garage floor paint compatible with self leveling compound?
Self leveling compound can be painted on, and most garage floor paints are compatible with the compound. There are some paints that specifically cannot be used on self leveling compounds, however. The labels on these paints should indicate their compatibility.
In this article, you will learn whether or not you can use epoxy paint over self leveling compound and if self leveling compound can be colored before setting. Additionally, we will address if self leveling compound can be used as a finished floor, what the natural color of self leveling compound is, and how long to let self leveling compound set before you paint it.
Can You Epoxy Paint Over Self Leveling Compound?
Epoxy paint is another great option for painting over self leveling compound for garage floors. In fact, a lot of garage floor paints are epoxy based. Some epoxy paints are simply for sealing purposes and dry as a clear coat. Other brands of epoxy paint look more like true paint in that they are colored.
The most common colors you will find for garage floor epoxy paint are beige, blue, gray, brown, green, and black. However, some brands may be able to make custom colors outside of those they offer. Whichever color you choose, make sure that the brand of epoxy paint you use is compatible with self leveling compound.
Can You Color Self Leveling Compound?
Another option for adding color to your self-leveling compound garage floor is by coloring the compound itself. You would need to color the compound before laying though so if you’ve already laid your self leveling compound, painting is a better option. Alternatively, you could add another thin layer of self leveling compound that is colored and pour it over top.
You can use special dyes or stains to mix in with the self leveling compound mixture before application. These can come in a variety of colors. The dyes used are usually topical and can come in liquid or powdered form.
You have the option of mixing it yourself or some brands of self leveling compound come premixed with color in them. Some brands even offer customizable coloring. Check with local suppliers or the manufacture themselves to see what your options for coloring are.
Can Self Leveling Compound Be Used As a Finished Floor?
For the most part, self leveling compound can be used as a finished floor, especially if you’re using it as a garage floor. However, self leveling compound can be damaged if it takes too much abuse. If you are intending to store things in your garage and set up activities that could easily damage the compound, it would be advantageous to put a layer of sealant over top.
Epoxy paints can be used as a final finish for self leveling compound floors because of the nature of the mixture. However, other garage floor paints may not be more protective than the self leveling compound by itself. If you’re not sure if your garage uses may damage the self leveling compound, ask a professional’s opinion.
What Is the Natural Color of Self Leveling Compound?
If you’d rather stick to the natural look of self leveling compound, you may get some variation of brown or gray. Self leveling compound can be painted over or dyed but some people can’t be bothered with the extra work.
In fact, some people prefer natural grays and browns, especially for garage floors. Dirt and grime can be easily masked on a floor that it is impossible to keep immaculate anyway. Instead of flat color, self leveling compound will have a natural variation which adds to the effect.
How Long Should You Let Self Leveling Compound Dry Before Painting?
Most self leveling compounds will completely set within twenty-four to forty-eight hours after pouring. There are special fast set self leveling compounds that will dry in two to six hours. Check to see if the manufacturer recommends a certain timeframe for allowing the self leveling compound to set before use.
Once your self leveling compound floor is ready for use, it is ready to be painted. Test multiple spots around the garage to ensure that the entire floor is set. If you want to be extra cautious, wait a full day after the self leveling compound has set to ensure that it is completely dry and ready to be painted.
Conclusion
If you aren’t satisfied with the appearance of your self leveling compound garage floor, don’t worry – you can paint it! Most garage floor paints and epoxy paints are compatible with self leveling compounds. However, there are some brands that you cannot use over self leveling compounds. Always check the label before use.
Alternatively, if you think to change the color before you lay the self leveling compound, there are dyes and stains that can be mixed so that you can have virtually any color garage floor. Some people like the natural grays and browns of plain self leveling compound and choose to leave the garage floor as is.
Self leveling compound can serve as a finished garage floor. However, if you are looking to do some heavy duty activities or store items that may damage the floor, it might be a good idea to add a finish that will protect the floor.
If you choose to do any type of finishing to your self leveling compound garage floor, you need to make sure the compound has completely set before painting or finishing it. Most compounds dry within a day or two, but some set faster only after a few hours.
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