Indoor and outdoor cinder block walls have different paints for them.

We’ll discuss the best paints to use on cinder blocks, but first, let’s go over the process of painting cinder blocks.

How to Paint Cinder Blocks

Preparation

You need to first prepare the cinder blocks correctly so that the paint adheres to the surface evenly. Before priming, try to remove as much peeling paint as possible. Use pre-mixed mortar patches to repair cracks and missing portions of cinder blocks. Make sure the mortar completely dries before priming the cinder block wall.

Primer

Get rid of dirt and dust on the wall with a high-pressure wash. Pressure washing helps improve primer and paint adhesion. The porous nature of cinder blocks makes it easy for acrylic primers to fill the pores and give you a smooth finish. Use thick nap paint rollers to apply the primer. Take a break to allow the primer to dry before applying the second coat. Two of the best primers are Kilz and BIN for use on cinderblocks or concrete.

Exterior Cinder Blocks

Exterior cinder blocks require more paint because of their roughness. Choose a paint that is durable and can endure heat and moisture. Acrylic paints are a popular choice for cinder blocks. Apply at least two coats for an appealing finish. Wait between coats as per manufacturer instructions to get the best results.

It’s better to spend a few extra dollars than to buy cheap rollers that become compressed and cause frustration. Lambswool rollers with thick naps give the best coverage.

Interior

Interior cinder block walls are smoother and much easier to paint. Their smooth-sided blocks require about half the amount of paint as an exterior rough block wall.

Acrylic primers are recommended for interior walls, but you can also choose between latex and elastomeric for the final coat. Sheen can vary from matte finish to high gloss, depending on your creative taste. If you like, you can spray paint interior walls instead of using rollers.

What is the Best Paint for Cinder Block Walls?

Acrylic Latex paints are the best option for cinder block walls. Here are some of the most popular paints in this category:

Best Interior Paint For Cinder Block Wall – Giani Brick Transformations Whitewash Paint for Brick and Fireplaces

Giani Brick Transformations Whitewash Paint for Brick and Fireplaces is an easy-to-use and affordable paint to give your cinder block walls a fresh new look.

This Giani paint dries quickly and has a very low odor range, making it a suitable choice for small spaces and small time frame projects.

This titanium dioxide-based paint gives your cinder block wall a whitewashed look, an elegant blend of modern and vintage styles.

Best Exterior Paint For Cinder Block Walls – KILZ Interior/Exterior Self-Priming Masonry, Stucco, and Brick Flat Paint

Before painting the cinder block wall, you need to prime it. But with the KILZ Interior/Exterior Self-Priming Masonry, Stucco, and Brick Flat Paint, you can avoid this hassle. This special paint mixture is self-priming. This water-repelling paint is available in a variety of colors. It easily transforms your exterior and seals cinder to keep it safe from corrosion.

KILZ Interior/Exterior Self-Priming Masonry, Stucco, and Brick Flat Paint cost slightly more than other cinder block paints, but it makes up for it because you don’t have to use primer separately.

All Rouder Paint for Cinder Block Walls – Kilz Porch Floor and Patio Paint

KILZ Porch and Patio Floor Paint is 100% acrylic latex paint. It is ideal for interior and exterior paint jobs. This product from Kilz provides a durable and long-lasting finish.

Its low-luster formula creates a surface that endures variable weather conditions. Not only that, but it’s also moisture resistant, making it resistant to scuffing, cracking, fading, and peeling.

This product is ideal for multiple applications. You can use it for porches, floors, basements, decks, patios, trim, siding, trellises, and furniture.

This multipurpose paint has superior coverage of 300-400 sq. feet on smooth surfaces. You can get 200-300 sq. feet of coverage on rough surfaces. It dries to touch in 1 hour and is ready to recoat in 4-6 hours.

How do you paint a cinder block wall with a roller?

1. Strip off the old paint
2. Clean the cinder block surface
3. Let the wall dry for 24-48 hours
4. Roll primer with a roller that has a 1-foot nap for the best texture on cinder blocks.
5. Let the primer dry, then apply the paint with a roller.

How do you seal painted cinder block walls?

Cinder block walls are usually sealed before the paint finish is applied, but you can add a thin layer of silicon-based sealant after the final coat. This seals in the color and protects the paint from environmental damage.

Can I use spray paint on cinder blocks?

You can spray paint cinder blocks. Make sure to buy spray paint that is viable for concrete walls.

Whether you’re going for the spray or roller, always choose a paint that is made for concrete surfaces and exterior walls (cinder blocks are commonly used in exterior areas).

Can you stain cinder blocks?

Yes, you can stain cinder blocks. If you’re looking for more than a thin layer of paint on the block wall, stain them. This will soak the color into the surface, giving them a mottled look.

Staining does not require priming beforehand, and it gives the cinder blocks a permanent new color.

Wrap Up

To paint cinder blocks, you need a special grade paint that is suitable for your usage. Paints for interior and exterior walls differ.

Before painting the block wall, some preparations are important. Scrape off the peeling paint. Fill cracks and repair damaged edges with pre-mixed mortar patches.

Get rid of dirt and dust from the cinder block wall and let it dry. Prime it once it’s dry. Use a thick nap roller for application. Apply the second coat after the dry time instructed by the manufacturer.

Exterior block walls require more paint than interior ones because of their roughness. Remember to use a lambswool roller with a thick nap for the best coverage.

Paint away! Share your painting experience in the comment section.