Top 10 Best paint For Basement Stairs In 2022

The most challenging part of a basement makeover is the staircase transformation. The stairs cannot go untouched, or your room basement will provide an incomplete look. Our stairs are mostly dull and the meh brown color. It is time to transform the stairs to eliminate the perception of the basement dungeon. The stairs, no doubt, look dirty and worn. It is time to freshen up the appearance of the stairs of the basement. It is not a difficult job and does not require a professional. Use epoxy and primer to fill in the holes. Remember to take out the nails, so the feet don’t sting when it’s time to use the stairs.

Best paint for basement stairs is an enamel-based that sticks to the surface. You can transform the basement into another living floor or turn it into a gaming space.  

Comparison Table of Top 10 Paint for Basement stairs

Here Are Top 10 Paint for Basement Stairs 

Top 10 Best Paint for Basement Stairs Reviews

1.FIXALL Skid Grip Anti-Slip Paint

2.KILZ Enamel Paint

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KILZ Low-Lustre Enamel Porch & Patio Latex Floor...

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The paint will provide an even-looking porch and patio floor with its every-lasting formula. The paint is easy to clean and does not scuff. The enamel paint is also resistant to cracking, peeling, fading. The paint features a film upon drying that makes it resistant to mildew. The paint applies the same on a primed or a non-primed painted surface.

The paint also accentuates trims, trellises, and sides. The paint provides a smooth finish that dries in less than an hour. The second or the recoat after that must be applied after four to six hours. You may apply the paint with a 3/8 to ½ inch roller or an air sprayer. The polyester or a nylon brush will provide an even coating. The paint covers at most 300 square feet of a rough surface and 300 to 400 square feet of an even surface.

Highlighted features:

• The paint comes in a can packaging.
• The paint provides a low lustrous finish.
• The paint is recommended for floors.
• The paint is acrylic-based enamel paint.
• The paint takes six hours to dry.
• The paint is available in 128 fluid ounces.
• The paint container weighs 10.7 pounds.
• The paint covers 200 to 400 square feet.

3.Diamond Brite Paint

The Diamond Company continues to manufacture paints of a premium and professional quality. The paint is resistant to mildew and provides a long-term glossy finish to protect the interior and exterior surfaces. The paint does not rub, or rust, or house numerous chemicals. The paint works beautifully with brick, stucco, aluminum, and cinder block surfaces. The Diamond paint is easy to clean as well. Before being shipped, the paints are stirred. This may last from two to seven days.

You would need to stir again so the loose particles mix well with each other and do not sink to the bottom of the can. You must apply with paint when the surface temperature is between 15 to 32 degrees Celsius. The paint is manufactured with a very hardened formula to withstand high foot traffic and its potential use.

Highlighted features:

• The paint weighs 56 pounds.
• The volume of the paint is five gallons.
• The paint is oil-based.
• The paint dries in less than a day.
• The paint provides maximum coverage of 300 square feet.
• The paint job is easy to clean and protects the surface from freezing.
• The paint applies with a spray, roll-on, or brush.

4.Rust-Oleum Paint

Rust-Oleum continues to be the pioneer of paints. This type of paint carries a new latex formula that is easy to clean with a simple solution of warm water and soap. The paint also provides a one-coat coverage that covers the surfaces instantly.

This volume of Rust-Oleum paints covers at most 150 square feet that provides top-quality adhesion to the surface with very little prep. The paint dries to an ultra-matte finish that is creamy and very consistent.  However, the paint may require at least three coats of paints to provide maximum coverage.

This paint requires patient build-up, so set some time aside for this project. The paint is easy to use, nonetheless. If you need the paint to cooperate, simply add water until it reaches the desired consistency. You may also stir the paint before use, so the color granules do not sink to the bottom.

Highlighted features:

• The paint container weighs 7.85 pounds.
• The paint is 30 fluid ounces in volume.
• The paint type is watercolor paint.
• The paint does not carry a smell.
• The paint applies on a variety of surfaces such as wood, metal, and ceramic.
• The paint dries in less than 30 minutes.

5.INSL-X Coating Paints

INSL-X SU031009A-01 Sure Step Acrylic Anti-Slip...

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The paint is durable with its modern formula that is resistant to skid and slipperiness. The paint applies to both exterior and interior surfaces. The coated paint retains excellent coverage that is resistant to abrasion. The paint also has the ability to resist water which is an excellent feature for basement painting.

The paint is able to withstand a high amount of foot traffic. It is mostly recommended for floors such as walkways and patios. The paint also dries fast, applies smoothly, and fills in the seals and cracks fully, so you would not know they were there in the first place. However, do not start painting on the exterior surface when it is raining outside. The paint is only able to withstand water once it has dried. The wet weather will have the paint slide right off. You can also review the manufacturer's website for preparation detail.

Highlighted features:

• The paint provides a clear exterior finish.
• The paint arrives in a can.
• The paint type is acrylic.
• The volume of the paint is 1 gallon.
• The paint container weighs 11.56 pounds.
• The paint covers 80 to 120 square feet per gallon.
• The kit includes paint, a can opener, and a stir stick.

6.KILZ Epoxy Paint

7.KILZ Epoxy Paint

KILZ 1-Part Epoxy Acrylic Concrete and Garage...

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This paint for basement floors is long-lasting and durable. The formula of the paint does not fade, crack, and blister even if heavy objects are placed on it. The paint is water-based. Thus, it is easy to clean with warm water and soap. The paint is also resistant o corrosive chemicals, gasoline, and oil.

The paint is exceptionally durable and has the ability to withstand masonry, stone, and brick surfaces. However, the paint is mainly intended to apply on high foot traffic surfaces such as driveways, porches, and basements. The paint applies smoothly and evens the horizontal floor that dries in less than two hours. The recoat may be applied after waiting for a further four hours. The paint is not intended for vertical surfaces whatsoever. The paint covers at most 500 square feet of smooth and at most 400 square feet of rough surfaces.

Highlighted features:

• The paint is manufactured with a water-based formula.
• The paint covers 300 to 400 square feet.
• The paint carries a paint volume of one gallon.
• The paint container weighs 10.14 pounds.
• The manufacturer offers a limited warranty.
• The paint includes paint for garage and concrete floors.
• The paint dries entirely in four hours.

8.Diamond Brite Enamel Paint

The Diamond Paint manufacturer provides professional-quality painting. This paint is mildew-resistant painting delivers a durable and glossy finish that accommodates all surfaces. The Diamond paint protects the household from rusting and abrasion and other chemicals.  The paint dries extremely hard as it needs to be able to withstand foot traffic.

A second coat may be repainted after a further wait of a day. The paint will also protect the surface from freezing. The paint must completely dry before the next coat is painted on. Use a brush with a natural bristle or premium quality roller with a plastic center for best results. The surface of the temperature must be between 60 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. You must prepare the surface first and wait for the correct temperature, or the paint will crackle and not adhere to the surface.

Highlighted features:

• The paint container weighs 13 pounds.
• The container carries one gallon of paint.
• The paint is oil-based.
• The paint applies to interior and exterior surfaces.
• The paint provides a long-lasting and rigid surface.
• The paint does not fade, scuff, and cracks.
• The paint applies with a brush, roll-on, or a spray.

9.INSL-X Waterproof Paint

INSL-X AMW100009A-01 WaterBlock Acrylic Masonry...

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The paint is a water-based mold that is resistant to mildew regarding interior and exterior surfaces. The paint works well for basement walls, cinder blocks, brick, and masonry surfaces. The INSL-X paint carries a high alkali resistance of pH 13. The waterproof paint keeps the basement walls dry, and a protectant film upon drying keeps the mildew away. The surfaces work well with the surface at a temperature of 50 to 90 degrees Celsius.

The paint can withstand up to 12 PSI hydrostatic pressure. A water-block label from the same manufacturer may help with application tips and proper preparation. The surface must be made free of dirt and chalk by power washing or scrubbing with water and soap. The surface must be thoroughly rinsed. The surface must also be stripped of the previous paint.

Highlighted features:

• The pint is waterproof.
• The volume of the paint is 1 gallon.
• The paint is water-based.
• The paint provides a flat matte finish.
• The paint covers 75 to 125 square feet per gallon.
• The paint kit includes the paint, stir stick, and can opener.
• The paint weighs 11.05 pounds.
• The warranty may be personally requested by the manufacturer.

10.Valspar Satin Enamel

Valspar 27-1500 QT 1 Quart White Porch and Floor...

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The paint provides a vibrant and beautiful color. The paint is worth the money and is an inexpensive alternative to the expensive, time-consuming painting jobs that require a professional set of hands. The paint works well with concrete floors and any floor with massive foot traffic. The paint is fantastic in quality and provides excellent results that would have you recommending it in your social circle.

The paint lasts for a long time, too, exactly what you expect from the paint. You do not want a paint that chips in the first two weeks and would require another coat. Paints are supposed to be every lasting to save your money. The paint also works well with linoleum, so it would be a complementary project in the bathroom as well. The paint does what is advertised and stays true to its description.

Highlighted features:

• The paint weighs 2.84 pounds.
• The paint provides a satin finish.
• The volume of the paint is one quart.
• The paint is wholly manufactured in the USA.  
• The paint is used for painting supplies and staining accessories.
• The paint can be stenciled on top of one another.
• The paint is durable.

How to Prep and Paint Basement Stairs 

Begin with removing carpet and any overly material. The paint staples must also be removed to identify holes and scratches.

In case you have a cement staircase, you may fill holes with an epoxy solution. However, make sure that the filling is formulated for small holes in the concrete staircase.

Now decide the color of the staircase. You may paint the stairs separately from the railing or do a one-color job. You can also switch between two to three colors. Also, consider the runner of the stairs to complement the color of the structure underneath. You can use painter’s tape, so the color does not overlap.

Purchase floor or porch paint. The formula must be oil-based paint that provides satin and a high-gloss finish. You will find these conveniently at the hardware shop.

Prep the stairs by sweeping or vacuuming. The concrete stairs will need to be washed with a TSP detergent. Wooden stairs need to be sanded and wiped with a cloth.

Apply a primer that is resistant to slipping. Mix it with the paint primer using a stir stick.

Using a painter’s tape, apply it to the walls and area surrounding the stairs.

Begin painting the stairs. Paine one step at a time and let it rest. You do not need a footprint that follows around like a shadow.

Let the first coat dry. Apply the second coat for a long-lasting effect after the first coat has completely dried.

Wear clean shoes and socks on the freshly painted stairs.

Frequently asked questions(FAQ)

What kind of paint do you typically use on basement steps?

- Oil-Based Latex Paint
- Oil-Based Acrylic Paint
- Water-Based Latex Paint

What type of paint should I use for my wooden stairs?

- Oil based (good for high traffic areas, but doesn't last as long)
- Latex (easy to apply and affordable)

How do I paint my basement stairs?

Begin with taking out the nails and priming the surface. Using the epoxy solution to prime and then apply two coats of paint. Let it dry.

How do you paint a high stairwell without a ladder?

The high stairwell is painted similarly to the stairs. However, you may paint gold to accentuate the stair knobs and inside of the railing.

What is the best way to paint a stairwell?

Cut out the extra ceiling to make space. Use the roller to paint over the new surroundings—prep the staircase with a primer and paint stick. Apply stair paint and let it dry. Do not wear socks around the new paint job.

What paint to use on stairs?

Best paints for basement stairs is an enamel-based that presents a smile-gloss finish.

How do you paint hard to reach places?

Use an arm extender to reach the challenging spaces. The extender holds tightly to the brush or the roll-on.

Do I need to cut in twice when painting?

Never cut in twice instead of rolling. The coats must dry together.

Should you paint the trim or the walls first?

Paint the trim first before moving on to priming the walls. Paint the walls after and let them set dry.

Where can I buy paint behind tools?

Conclusion

We have figured out the necessary steps to paint the basement stairs that do not break your bank. Now it is up to you to purchase the necessary equipment and get to painting. Follow the steps to the T for an even and flat paint job. Best of luck in your latest painting endeavor and happy painting!