Cement Paint Dos and Don'ts

• Do follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter. Thorough cleaning and other prep work and a careful application are critical to a long-lasting paint job.

• Do apply a primer or sealer, if recommended by the paint manufacturer. Primer and paint from the same manufacturer are specifically formulated for a good bond.

• Don't use regular paint. Masonry needs to "breathe" more than other building materials. Standard paints trap moisture and will soon bubble and peel due to water vapor trying to escape.

• Don't paint new concrete until it has fully cured. The standard minimum wait is 28 days, but check with the paint manufacturer for recommendations.

• Don't make a hasty decision to paint. Unpainted exterior masonry, such as brick siding and concrete patios, is essentially maintenance-free. Painting creates a maintenance issue for the life of the house.

There's a reason cement paint is different from regular paint. Apply your new coating carefully, if indeed you do decide to paint your masonry.

Source: http://www.networx.com/article/cement-paint