I painted my concrete basement floor about 12 yrs ago. I didn't do anything special prep wise and some of the paint peeled and flaked over the years (some of which I guess is to be expected through wear and tear). I'm ready to repaint and was looking at some literature that talked about the need to "rough up" the surface if the concrete is smooth. Obviously I don't want to do any more than necessary to prep the floor. Been looking at epoxy floor paints and wondered if they tend to do a better job than the standard concrete paint that I used before? Any other ideas, tips to save me aggravation or regret at not doing something I should have to make the job turn out better? Appreciate any advice!

I worked in paints for 8 years through high school and college. I'd rough it up, and depending on what you put down before, I'd go with an oil base floor paint. Unless it's a garage floor that gets a lot of wear and tear from vehicles, I'd avoid the two part epoxys.

try this:

http://www.sherwin-williams.com/do_it_yourself/products/porch_floor_enamel/

but only use it if there's a latex on there now, if there is oil base on now, stick with oil base.

Don't use too much paint. Other basements will think it looks like a whore.

I am looking to do something similar, except I'd like to paint and follow that up with some color flakes and a clear coat. Should I just grab one of those boxed garage paint kits, or think about something else.

I am looking to do something similar, except I'd like to paint and follow that up with some color flakes and a clear coat. Should I just grab one of those boxed garage paint kits, or think about something else.

If there is nothing on it, yes.

yeah. as of now it's just the basement floor, no paint at all.

yeah. as of now it's just the basement floor, no paint at all.

As long as it's not brand new, the concrete should be cured and ready to go. Make sure the surface is clean. An etching with Muratic Acid is not a bad idea either. It acts like a bonding agent. (I just had to look that up, I've been out of the business for 15 years, wanted to make sure they hadn't come up with something similar, and easier)