Coo-Var Acrylic Floor Paint is a water-based, hard-wearing floor coating suitable for interior and exterior surfaces. It provides a practical, durable finish for concrete, wood, tarmac, stone, brickwork and suitably prepared metal.
This guide explains how to prepare the floor and apply Coo-Var Acrylic Floor Paint to both bare surfaces and previously painted floors.
Before You Start
Good preparation is essential for a successful floor paint job. The surface must be clean, dry, sound and free from oil, grease, dust and other contamination.
Check the product label and technical data sheet before starting and make sure the conditions are suitable for application.
You will typically need:
- Coo-Var Acrylic Floor Paint
- Roller suitable for floor coatings
- Paint brush for edges and awkward areas
- Clean water for thinning
- Suitable cleaning/degreasing products
- Abrasive paper or suitable mechanical preparation equipment where required
Step 1: Clean and Prepare the Floor
Start by removing all dirt, dust, oil, grease and other contamination from the floor.
Use a suitable degreaser or oil remover where required and allow the surface to dry thoroughly before painting.
Bare Concrete
New concrete must be sufficiently cured and dry before painting. Check the moisture content and ensure the surface is suitable for coating.
Smooth, polished or power-floated concrete may require mechanical abrasion to provide a suitable key for the paint.
Where required, Coo-Var Acid Etch can help remove surface contamination and provide a suitable surface profile.
Remove all residue after preparation and allow the floor to dry completely.
Previously Painted Floors
Check that the existing paint is sound, well adhered and suitable for overcoating.
Remove any loose, flaking or poorly adhered paint, then clean and degrease the surface thoroughly.
Smooth or glossy areas should be lightly abraded to provide a suitable key. Remove all dust before painting.
If you are unsure about compatibility, carry out a test area before coating the whole floor.
Step 2: Apply the First / Priming Coat
Coo-Var Acrylic Floor Paint is self-priming.
For bare concrete, thin the first coat by 5% with clean water.
Mix the paint thoroughly before application, then apply an even coat using a suitable roller. Use a brush around edges and in awkward areas.
Avoid applying the paint too heavily, as excessive application can increase drying times.
Step 3: Apply the Second & Third Coat
Allow the first coat to dry sufficiently before applying the second coat.
Apply a full coat of undiluted Coo-Var Acrylic Floor Paint, working systematically across the floor to achieve an even finish.
Avoid overworking the paint or applying excessively thick coats.
The recommended coverage is approximately 9–11m² per litre, depending on the surface and application.
Allow second coat to dry before applying a third where required.
Step 4: Allow to Dry
Allow the final coat to dry fully before putting the floor back into use.
Typical drying times are approximately:
- Touch dry: 1 hour
- Hard dry: 4 hours
- Overcoat: approximately 6 hours
- Walkable: approximately 12 hours
Drying times can vary depending on temperature, humidity, ventilation and the surface being coated.
Tips for a Better Finish
- Always start with a clean, dry and properly prepared surface.
- Do not paint over loose, flaking or poorly adhered existing coatings.
- Abrade smooth or glossy surfaces before painting.
- Do not apply excessive amounts of paint.
- Work systematically to maintain an even finish.
- Allow sufficient drying time between coats.
- Carry out a test area if you are unsure about surface or coating compatibility.
Need Help Choosing the Right Floor Paint?
Choosing the right floor coating depends on the surface, level of traffic and conditions the floor will be exposed to.
Explore the Coo-Var Floor Paint range or contact our team for free technical support, specs and site visits where required.
