Decorative Concrete

Floor Stencils - Ideas For Decorative Concrete Floors

By Debra T Conrad

Faux painting techniques are an economical and innovative way to transform any surface and can complement any decorating style. Dull concrete floors, both indoors and out, can be brought dramatically to life with paint.

In theory, almost any look can be replicated, by introducing color, pattern and texture. The ideal design will vary according to the room or space you are making over. You may want a color scheme or theme to complement the décor style and/or function of a room or outdoor area.

Planning and Preparation

Before choosing a design, look carefully at your surface and space. Some designs are useful for disguising flaws in a floor. For other designs you may need to patch and smooth flawed surfaces thoroughly first.

You will also need to think about the traffic in the area you are painting. Is it worth doing an elaborate, time-consuming pattern in a high traffic area? If you don't like the distressed look that will result, you may want to rethink. Designs also need matching to the surface area. Large, bold patterns may be out of scale for a small room. Equally, small, detailed patterns may get lost in large spaces. If you are using stencils, note that some manufacturers can resize stencils for you.

Inspirations for Faux Painted Floors

Brick and Stone

Brick (or 'block') and stone finishes can add texture and/or color and can be effective indoors or outdoors. Patterned brickwork is easily simulated using reusable stencils. They are available in a wide range of designs and are an easy option for beginners.

Simulating the effect of stone may require more expertise (and time) and so may be more suitable for smaller spaces. Many types of stone can be reproduced using paint. You could create a luxurious marble floor for your bathroom. Faux slate paving or flagstones will suit patios and indoor spaces, such as kitchens or hallways.

Tiles and Mosaics

Faux terracotta tiles are a versatile option for kitchens, patios and dining rooms. Their warm, earthy appearance goes well with the rustic Tuscan look and can add warmth in a modern home. Again, stenciling can be used to reproduce a tiled appearance. You could use paint to create a faux mosaic floor worthy of a Roman villa.

Patterned and Textured Finishes

For a finish that isn't too busy, you can use paint to create subtle texture. The color washing technique used to create a mottled or cloudy effect on walls can also be used on floors. Distressed and antique finishes that simulate wear and age may be suitable in some décor schemes.

With pattern, your choice is endless. Covering an entire surface is one option. Alternatively you could paint a faux rug, perhaps with patterns inspired by oriental carpets and kelims. You might prefer clean lines and geometric patterns. Stencils are always useful and can be used for patterned borders for a more understated look.

Bold or subtle, bright or neutral, faux painting techniques can give your floor an expensive-looking makeover that won't break the bank.

Find more concrete floor stencil ideas from That Painter Lady. Then claim your free "Insider's Guide to Faux Painting" and avoid all the common mistakes, get success tips, find the right products for the job and more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Debra_T_Conrad

Painting Your Garage Floor

Painting Your Garage Floor

By: Kenneth Collins

Today you can protect your garage floors with an almost endless list of options some of which include mats, rubber, tiles, paints etc. Painting up your garage floor can be an excellent idea to change the look of your old garage and give it some appeal, however many people think that it is a waste of money and efforts due to which they keep their garage floors unpainted. They fear that the rough environment, weather, tires and the moisture can cause the paint to peel off. Painting your garage floor can actually benefit you in the long run. It acts as a protective layer and saves it from further abuse. Choosing the correct concrete floor paint is of utmost importance if you wish it to do any good at all. You can check garage flooring Raleigh if you wish to improve your garage flooring.

Concrete floors when left untreated have a greater tendency to accumulate dirt, stains and grease. Painting your garage floors can provide a safe environment for any work to be carried out in the garage without the fear of staining the floor with oil and grease. When left untreated these floors become dirty and stained lowering the overall appeal of the garage. When you choose to paint your garage floor you must first clean it thoroughly. It must be cleaned using industrial solvents in order to remove the dirt which has accumulated in it over the years. If the floor is not cleaned properly then chances are that the paint will not effectively bond with the surface of the floor resulting in peeling of at the slightest exertion which is why you must take special care in cleaning the floor before painting it.

Choosing the correct paint for your garage flooring:
�The paint that you choose must be able to stand very high temperatures as it will be exposed to the heat of the cars from its tires. Such kind of heat will be in direct contact with the surface of the paint so you must choose a paint of good quality.
�The paint should be stain resistant as well. The garage is a place where fluid leaks and spills are most common which makes the garage floors most vulnerable to dirty stains and marks. A stain resistant paint will prevent such damage and help it look clean and new for a much longer period of time.

One of the best paints for garage floors is the epoxy paint. They are made from resinous and epoxy materials consisting of water based coating. Epoxy paints are known to better tolerate stains, chemicals and heat. You can also look for garage storage cabinets Raleigh for some great space saving cabinets.


Kenneth Collins is a vastly experienced writer. He often writes about garage flooring Raleigh. He is expert in garage storage solution and garage storage cabinets Raleigh.