Here in New Jersey, many homes have basements, and they can vary from cozy and comfortable to dank and dreary! Wherever your basement falls on the spectrum, it is likely to benefit from painting. There are some aspects of painting a basement that are different from other interior painting, so it is worth taking some time to consider. 

Choosing a Basement Paint Color

Because most basements have limited natural light entry, it is best to avoid dark colors there. Instead, go with a neutral like white, tan, or gray, or with a bright tone like butter yellow, light blue, or sun-on-grass green. The one exception to this is if you were painting a man cave or media room, and you want the basement walls darker to create a specific ambiance.<h1>Are There Water Issues?

If a New Jersey home has water or dampness issues, it’s likeliest to show up in the basement. If your basement walls ever seep, or if you have a lot of humidity or condensation in your basement, these issues need to be dealt with before you can paint. 

For water intrusion, you need to hire a professional who can do the necessary work outside and inside your basement to keep it dry. If there is no seepage, but there is high humidity, a quality dehumidifier could make a wonderful difference. 

When water has been present for a long time, the likelihood of mold or mildew is quite significant. Any places where these fungi have appeared need to be treated with a fungicidal agent that is stronger and longer-lasting than bleach. This, too, is often best left to a professional.

Many paint manufacturers have antimicrobial paints that are specifically designed for areas that experience more than usual dampness. After taking the precautions just mentioned, these paints are an excellent choice for a basement.

How to Paint Block, Brick, and Concrete

Are your basement walls made of some kind of masonry, whether it be cinderblock, bricks, or concrete? If so, you are in good company! Fortunately, these surfaces are not hard to paint, as long as you use the right products. Begin with a block filler primer, which fills and seals the myriad pores in the surface of masonry. This gives you a good surface for your paint to adhere to, ensuring long-lasting results. 

Keep the Air Circulating!

Most basements have poor air circulation, so if you are painting one, make sure you provide ventilation. If you do any sanding or scraping, be sure to wear a breathing mask. Finally, it is a good idea to select Low-VOC or Zero-VOC products if possible, so you are breathing the cleanest air you can during and after your project.

Basement Painting for New Jersey and Philadelphia

When your basement needs some attention from a painter, consider calling Cherry Hill Painting. We have the expertise to help you make the right choices in regards to products and procedures, ensuring you the best outcome. Our craftsmen have painted thousands of homes throughout New Jersey and the greater Philadelphia metro area, and we can put that knowledge to work for you!

Cherry Hill Painting performs interior painting, exterior painting, wallpaper removal, cabinet refinishing, carpentry, and more. Call us for a free basement painting estimate today!