Can i paint cement?

i need to paint cement. either in the process of doing the cement or after when its dry? which way is the best? it has to be really durable, waterproof.Can i paint cement?
Paint intended for cement comes in two types--there are coatings which sit on the surface, and stains, which soak into the concrete somewhat. Stains are generally more durable than coatings for things like foot traffic and vehicles. Home Depot sells a brand that comes in many colors, is intermixable and is a water based epoxy that can be thinned and faux painted. You have to follow the preparation directions exactly for the stuff to work right. They also sell a clear topcoat which makes it more durable.





To mix color into the cement itself requires using pigments mixed into it at the time its being poured. The advantage here is that the color is in the concrete, not on it. It runs all the way through the slab. Can't wear or wash off. The color is not nearly so bright as paint and the choice is somewhat limited. It's also very difficult to make any variations in the color (to mimic natural stone for instance) but if you're willing to work your *** off you can do it. The best place to find it is to call a concrete supplier for sources. Or you can try to get the info from a company that does that sort of thing for pool decks and driveways, but they probably won't give up their secrets too willingly.





You don't say if this is a surface you're working with or an object, so it's hard to get too specific. Plain old enamel house paint holds up pretty well for things like garden statues and benches. It wears in time to a kind of weathered and aged patina that actually looks pretty good.





The main thing about any coating product you use is to etch the surface with muriatic acid. It cleans it and etches the surface to make it more receptive to a good bond. There are also bonding agents sold specifically to help the paint stick. (again Home Depot)





If you want to get really exotic, you can try to color it with a chemical/acid wash that essentially reacts with the salts within the cement and changes it to another color. It gives an effect not unlike the kind of rainbow effect of oil on water. It' difficult to find the materials, but the process is pretty straightforward--it is hazardous though. The fumes are toxic so it has to be done outdoors with the proper precautions. But as with the pigments in the mix, you're actually changing the color of the concrete, so it's permanent and weatherproof.





Hope any of this helps.Can i paint cement?
You can paint it. Hardware stores have paints for that, but it will come off with time. If you want it permanent, it will be not painting, but colored cement. Again, ask at a hardware store what pigments to add while making cement to get certain colors.
there are a number of concrete paints and finises availabe at paint stores and for order from speciality vendors (such as tennis court paints)...also scid stains for concrete and clear finishes....
After the new cement dries %26amp; hardens completely, give it a good wash with clean water and completely dry it. Under a day with bright sun %26amp; no wind, apply a few coats of any garage floor/brick/stucco/cement paint (preferably with epoxy base).
Sure can, just go to hardware store check the paints, should tell you on the label.........
Yes. Buy the paint that is used for basement floors. It doesn't come in very many colors but it seals the concrete well.
Is this near/around a pool or water source? Cement must be sealed, then painted. Go to B. Moore paints or Bear paints. Lowes Home center carries both I think. The paint for cement is a special blend that must be used. Can use paint sprayer.
David C is correct, also, if it is freshly poured or set, be sure to wait 28 days to allow the concrete to cure. otherwise you could potentially deal with some pretty serious problems.