How to Paint Basement Steps
- 1). Sweep the steps thoroughly to remove any dust or debris from the surface. Cleaning the area should always be the first step in any paint job.
- 2). Wipe the steps with plain water and a soft disposable cloth. This will remove any remaining dust or dirt from the surface of the steps and ensure that debris will not clog the paintbrush or mar the painted finish.
- 3). Purchase the correct type of paint for your basement steps. There are particular paints for cement and others for wooden steps. Choose a durable mix in a neutral color that is easy to clean. Texture paint can help make the steps a little safer. Stick to an easy-to-wipe resistant paint.
- 4). Place tape along the joins between the steps and the wall to prevent paint splatter. Masking tape or blue painter's tape work best and don't stick to paint or wallpaper. Be sure to get the tape as close as possible to the edge of the steps without actually overlapping onto the steps.
- 5). Begin painting at the bottom of the steps to prevent trapping yourself in the basement as the paint dries. It is a little more awkward to paint steps this way, so the natural inclination is to start at the top and work your way down. If you have a basement door to the outside or other way of exiting the basement after painting, begin at the top of the stairs.
- 6). Use a 3-inch vinyl paintbrush dipped in a small amount of paint and brush horizontally along the very bottom baseboard of the steps. Use even strokes and try to avoid making contact with the wall and the painter's tape.
- 7). Continue painting the steps baseboard to tread board all the way up to the top of the stairs. Allow to dry as instructed on the paint can before removing the tape.
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