Learning how to paint and decorate a foundation is not hard, and will add curb appeal to your home. Although the process can be time consuming, the results are worth it. You will be increasing both the visual beauty of your house's exterior, as well as the property's value.
1 Pressure wash or scrape and wash any old paint off the stone. Use scrapers, rags, scrubbers and a bucket of soapy water. Remove any residue and rinse until the stone is completely clean. Let it dry thoroughly.
2 Choose a concrete paint that compliments the rest of your home's exterior. Consider matching the color to the trim around the roof and windows. If you find a different color that sets off the rest of your landscaping or decorative garden items, go for it. The trim can always be repainted to match the foundation, at minimal cost.
3 Use a wide roller and brushes to paint the foundation. Use the edge of your brush to "cut in" all the edges and corners first, brushing paint in from the edge a few inches. Starting in the center, roll on the paint in a V formation, lapping your strokes until the area is covered and all edges are smoothed out. If your foundation is made of a deep brick, rather than smooth stone, use the brushes to coat in between the grooves, then smooth out the paint with a smaller roller. Make sure that your coats are as even and smooth as possible. Apply a few coats, if needed. Let the paint dry completely (usually about 24 hours).
4 Choose some stencils that match the rest of your landscaping theme. This could be simple ivy or a random leaf pattern, or you could go for a whole lattice board mural if you are ambitious and artistic. Use small, sample-sized concrete paint to add any elements you want. Let the paint dry thoroughly.
5 Seal the paint with concrete sealer. Apply the sealer the same way you applied the paint in Step 3--first cut in any edges, then roll on a smooth coat. Apply two coats if you reside in an area with extreme temperatures. Sealing your foundation will protect it from the sun and other natural, corrosive elements.
