Can you epoxy over painted concrete?

Nick Shushan
By Nick Shusan , Epoxy Expert and the CEO of NYC Epoxy Flooring.

December 6, 2022

Yes, it is possible to epoxy over painted concrete. First, the surface of the painted concrete should be cleaned and prepared properly to ensure that the epoxy adheres well. Any chipped or peeling paint should be removed and the surface should be roughened slightly to create a rough texture for the epoxy to grip onto.

Once the surface is prepared, the epoxy can be applied in thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and applying the epoxy to ensure a smooth, even finish.

After the epoxy has been applied, it should be left to cure for the recommended amount of time before it is ready for use. Depending on the type and brand of epoxy used, the curing time can range from 24 hours to several days. Once the epoxy is fully cured, it will create a strong, durable, and waterproof layer over the painted concrete, protecting it from further damage.

Will epoxy paint stick to painted concrete?


Yes, epoxy paint will stick to painted concrete, but it is important to make sure that the paint is in good condition and that there is no visible flaking or cracking. You will also need to ensure that the surface is thoroughly cleaned and prepped before applying the epoxy.

Do I need to remove the paint from the concrete before repainting?

It is generally not necessary to remove the existing paint from the concrete before repainting. However, there are a few factors to consider before deciding whether or not to remove the old paint.

First, if the existing paint is in good condition and is not peeling or chipping, it can be left in place and simply painted over with the new paint. This can save time and effort, and will also create a thicker layer of paint that will provide better protection for the concrete.

If the existing paint is in poor condition, with peeling or chipping, it should be removed before repainting. This will create a smoother surface for the new paint to adhere to, and will also ensure that the new paint does not peel or chip prematurely.

In addition, if the existing paint is a different color than the new paint, it may be necessary to remove the old paint in order to achieve a clean, even color.

Overall, it is recommended to assess the condition of the existing paint and the desired final result before deciding whether or not to remove the old paint before repainting.

Should you paint before or after epoxy?

It is generally recommended to paint before applying the epoxy. This allows the paint to create a smooth, even surface that the epoxy can adhere to properly. If the epoxy is applied first, any imperfections or unevenness in the surface of the concrete may be visible through the paint, resulting in an unprofessional-looking finish.

Additionally, painting before applying epoxy allows for any touch-ups or corrections to be made to the paint before the epoxy is applied. This ensures that the final result is as smooth and flawless as possible. Once the epoxy is applied, it cannot be easily removed or corrected, so it is important to make sure the paint is perfect before moving on to the next step.