How to Paint Stonework
- 1). Clean the stone thoroughly with a cleanser designed for masonry. Rinse with a garden hose, not a power washer, which will damage stone and brick. For indoor stone where a hose is impractical, use a spray bottle and cloth to thoroughly clean away the cleansing agent.
- 2). Apply masonry primer when the stone has dried. A single coat usually works, but for porous stone apply two coats. Wait for it to dry.
- 3). Apply a coat of latex or masonry paint with a paint roller for flat stone and a paintbrush for varied stone. Allow that coat to dry for several hours, then apply a second coat. Two coats will be enough for most stone, especially over a good masonry primer. Some paints suggest that you finish with a masonry sealer, but it's optional.