How should you paint cinder block walls?

To paint a cinder block wall, power wash it, caulk the cracks, protect the floor, apply concrete primer and paint the wall. The supplies you need are a power washer, a wire brush, acrylic caulk, masking tape, drop cloths, concrete primer, latex masonry paint and a paintbrush.

1. Power wash the wall

   Use a power washer to clean the wall and remove existing paint. Scrub stubborn paint residue with a wire brush. Wait for the wall to dry before you proceed.

2. Caulk the cracks

   If the wall has cracks, fill them with acrylic caulk. Pack the caulk into the cracks with a putty knife, smooth the surface and dry the caulk according to the manufacturer's instructions.

3. Protect the floor

   Cover the floor with drop cloths, and cover the surrounding surfaces with masking tape.

4. Apply primer

   Brush the wall with concrete primer. Work the primer into the nooks and crannies to ensure that the entire wall is coated, and let it dry for at least four hours. Wash and dry the paintbrush.

5. Paint the wall

   Apply one coat of latex exterior masonry paint, and let it dry. This usually takes four to eight hours. Apply a second coat when the first is dry.