Apply a solution of 2 tbsp. (14. 8 ml) of bleach and 1 quart (0. 95 liters) of warm water. Blot the affected area with a sponge or cloth saturated with the solution. Continue blotting until the stain disappears. Remove stains with a commercial grade mold and mildew remover. Commercial mold and mildew cleaners are available at most home improvement centers.
Remove loose dirt and debris with a coarse brush. Clean the walls by wiping them down with a damp cloth. Use a commercial degreasing product to remove stubborn grease or oil stains. Commercial grade degreasing solutions are available at most home improvement stores. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for application. Utilize a pressure washer to remove dirt and debris. Pressure washers are available for rent at most home improvement stores. Exhibit caution when using a pressure washer to clean stone walls. To avoid damage to the stone basement, use the pressure washer on the lowest pressure setting and gradually increase the pressure.
Let the stone dry entirely before you start priming. Typically, it will take at least 24 hours for the stone to dry.
Use a wide nylon/polyester brush to apply the primer. The brush should be between 2 and 3 inches (5 and 7. 6 cm). Avoid rollers when painting stone basement walls because the roller won’t get the paint into the small uneven surfaces of the stone. The rugged stone surface also could tear a roller cover. Cut in a 2- to 3-inch (5- to 7. 6-cm) border around the top, bottom and sides of the stone walls. Start by applying masonry primer in 1 corner and continue along the edge of the wall. Paint the masonry primer onto the stone walls in 4-foot by 2-foot (1. 2-m by . 6-m) sections. As you apply the primer, overlap into the previously applied and cut in areas for consistent coverage.
Select a paint color that complements your basement’s decor. Masonry paint is available in several colors at home improvement and paint stores.
Use a wide nylon/polyester brush to apply the masonry paint. The brush should be between 2 and 3 inches (5 and 7. 6 cm). Avoid rollers when painting stone basement walls because the roller won’t provide coverage in the uneven surfaces of the stone. The rugged stone surface also could damage a roller cover. Cut in a 2- to 3-inch (5- to 7. 6-cm) border around the top, bottom and sides of the stone walls. Start by applying masonry paint in 1 corner and continue along the edge of the wall. Paint the masonry paint onto the stone walls in 4-foot by 2-foot (1. 2-m by . 6-m) sections. As you apply the paint, overlap into the previously applied and cut in areas for consistent coverage. Allow the paint to dry for a minimum of 4 hours in between coats of paint. Evaluate the coverage after the second coat of paint. Check the small crevices in the stones to ensure even coverage. The walls may need a third coat of paint, or spot applications in the stone wall’s nooks and crannies may be necessary.
