When I started my home repair business, I was looking for an easy way to waterproof my projects but wasn’t sure if I could paint over the flex seal. I tried a few different products, but nothing worked as well as Flex Seal. Not only does it seal out water, but it’s also flexible and can be used on a variety of surfaces. In this guide, I’ll show you how to use Flex Seal to waterproof your projects.
What is Flex Seal?
Flex Seal is a liquid rubber coating that can be sprayed on to a variety of surfaces. It dries to a flexible, watertight seal that is perfect for sealing out moisture. Flex Seal can be used on wood, metal, glass, and more.
What Flex Seal products can you paint over?
Flex Seal Spray
• Flex Seal Spray can be easily coated with most commercially available paints and urethanes. To ensure proper adhesion, we recommend painting over Flex Seal with a high-quality primer and paint system designed for the specific substrate being coated.
For the best results, it’s recommended to use a high-quality oil-based paint or a spray paint designed to adhere to rubber or silicone materials, as Flex Seal Spray creates a rubberized coating when it dries. Before painting, ensure the Flex Seal layer is completely dry and fully cured, which might take up to 24 hours or longer, depending on the conditions such as humidity and temperature. Additionally, lightly sanding the surface of the cured Flex Seal with fine-grit sandpaper can help create a more adhesive surface for the paint. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the paint adheres well and dries to the desired finish.
Steps to paint over flex seal spray:
Painting over Flex Seal Spray involves a series of steps to ensure that the paint adheres properly and the finish is durable. Here’s a detailed guide to help you achieve the best results:
1. Wait for Complete Curing
- Allow the Flex Seal Spray to fully cure. This usually takes 24 to 48 hours, but depending on the environment and the thickness of the application, it may take longer. Check the product instructions for the recommended curing time.
2. Clean the Surface
- Once cured, clean the surface gently to remove any dirt, grease, or debris. Use a mild soap and water solution, rinse thoroughly, and let it dry completely. Avoid using harsh chemicals that might damage the Flex Seal.
3. Light Sanding (Optional)
- For better paint adhesion, lightly sand the Flex Seal coated surface with fine-grit sandpaper (around 220 grit). This creates a rougher surface for the paint to stick to. Be careful not to sand too aggressively, as you don’t want to compromise the integrity of the Flex Seal layer.
4. Wipe Down the Surface
- After sanding, wipe down the surface with a clean, damp cloth to remove any dust or particles. Let it dry completely.
5. Apply Primer (Optional)
- Applying a primer designed for use on rubber or similar materials can enhance paint adhesion and provide a more uniform finish. Ensure the primer is compatible with both the Flex Seal and the type of paint you plan to use. Allow the primer to dry as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Choose the Right Paint
- Use a high-quality oil-based paint or a spray paint that’s compatible with rubberized surfaces. Test the paint on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it adheres well and dries to the expected finish.
7. Paint Application
- Apply the paint in thin, even coats to avoid drips or unevenness. For spray paints, hold the can approximately 8 to 12 inches away from the surface and apply in a sweeping motion. If using brush-on paint, apply with smooth, even strokes.
8. Allow Adequate Drying Time
- Let the first coat of paint dry completely before assessing if a second coat is necessary. Follow the paint manufacturer’s recommended drying times between coats.
9. Apply Additional Coats if Needed
- If the coverage isn’t uniform or you desire a thicker layer of paint, apply additional coats as needed, allowing for proper drying time between applications.
10. Final Curing
- Once you’ve achieved the desired finish, allow the paint to cure fully. Avoid touching or using the painted surface until it has completely dried and cured, following the paint manufacturer’s recommended curing time for the best durability.
By following these steps carefully, you can successfully paint over Flex Seal Spray, ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.
Flex Glue:
Flex Glue not only acts as a top-quality adhesive but can also serve as a sealant for windows and doors. Also, Flex Glue can be used with most commercially available paints and urethanes.
Surfaces with Flex glue Can be painted over once it is dry. We recommend using a high-quality primer and paint system designed for the specific substrate being coated.
Flex Seal Products that Cannot be Painted Over:
Flex Seal Liquid
Flex seal liquid cannot be coated with anything other than Flex Seal Liquid, however, you can add as many coats as you like. Make sure you let it dry between coats and can even add different colors to create a unique look.
Flex tape:
Flex tape cannot be painted over except using a coat of flex seal spray. Below are the steps to paint over flex seal tape using spray;
Painting over Flex Seal Tape with Flex Seal Spray to achieve a uniform appearance or add an additional protective layer is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:
1. Ensure Proper Adhesion of the Flex Seal Tape
- Before applying Flex Seal Spray, make sure the Flex Seal Tape is firmly pressed onto the surface and fully adhered. There should be no air bubbles or loose edges. This helps in creating a seamless base for the Flex Seal Spray.
2. Clean the Surface
- Clean the surface of the Flex Seal Tape and the surrounding area to remove any dirt, grease, or debris. Use a mild detergent and water, rinse thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely. A clean surface ensures better adhesion of the Flex Seal Spray.
3. Mask Off Areas
- Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas around the Flex Seal Tape that you do not want to spray. This step is crucial for achieving a neat finish, especially if you’re only targeting specific sections.
4. Prepare the Flex Seal Spray
- Shake the Flex Seal Spray can vigorously for about a minute to ensure the contents are well mixed. This step is important for achieving a consistent color and texture.
5. Apply Flex Seal Spray
- Hold the can approximately 8 to 12 inches away from the surface. Begin spraying in a sweeping motion, applying a light, even coat over the Flex Seal Tape and any areas you wish to cover. The key is to apply thin layers to avoid drips and ensure even drying.
6. Let It Dry
- Allow the first coat to dry completely. Drying times can vary based on humidity, temperature, and airflow, but typically, a light coat should be dry to the touch within 2 to 3 hours. Refer to the Flex Seal Spray instructions for specific drying times.
7. Apply Additional Coats (If Necessary)
- If you’re seeking a more uniform appearance or additional thickness, apply subsequent coats, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. Usually, 2-3 coats are sufficient for a uniform finish and additional protection.
8. Remove Masking
- Once the final coat is dry to the touch and you’re satisfied with the coverage and appearance, carefully remove any painter’s tape. It’s best to remove the tape before the Flex Seal Spray is completely cured to avoid peeling.
9. Curing
- Allow the Flex Seal Spray to cure fully. Full curing can take up to 24 hours or longer, depending on environmental conditions. The surface should be left undisturbed during this time to ensure the best results.
By following these steps, you can effectively paint over Flex Seal Tape with Flex Seal Spray, creating a cohesive and waterproof seal that matches or complements the surrounding area. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and follow all safety instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Flex shot:
Another flex seal product you can’t paint over is the Flex shot. The Flex shot can be used as a top-quality adhesive but also serves as a sealant for windows and doors. Also, the Flex shot can be used with most commercially available paints and urethanes.
How to Paint over Flex Seal:
1. Flex Seal can be easily coated with most commercially available paints and urethanes. To ensure proper adhesion, we recommend painting over Flex Seal with a high-quality primer and paint system designed for the specific substrate being coated.
2. Apply a thin layer of primer to the surface that you will be painting. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding.
3. Once the primer is dry, apply a thin layer of paint to the surface. Allow the paint to dry completely before adding additional coats.
4. For best results, we recommend applying 2-3 coats of paint to the surface. Allow each coat to dry completely before adding the next.
5. Once you are satisfied with the number of coats, allow the paint to dry completely before using or touching the surface.
How to Paint over Flex Seal Liquid:
Unfortunately, Flex Seal Liquid cannot be coated with anything other than Flex Seal Liquid. However, you can add as many coats as you like. Make sure you let it dry between coats and can even add different colors to create a unique look.
1. Begin by adding a thin layer of Flex Seal Liquid to the surface that you will be painting.
2. Allow the first layer to dry completely before adding additional coats.
3. For best results, we recommend applying 2-3 coats of Flex Seal Liquid to the surface.
4. Once you are satisfied with the number of coats, allow the paint to dry completely before using or touching the surface.
How to Paint over Flex Tape:
Flex Tape cannot be painted over but you can add a coat of Flex Seal Spray. Flex Seal Spray can be painted over with most commercially available paints and urethanes.
1. Apply a thin layer of primer to the surface that you will be painting. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding.
2. Once the primer is dry, apply a thin layer of Flex Seal Spray to the surface.
3. Allow the Flex Seal Spray to dry completely before adding additional coats.
4. For best results, we recommend applying 2-3 coats of Flex Seal Spray to the surface. Allow each coat to dry completely before adding the next.
5. Once you are satisfied with the number of coats, allow the paint to dry completely before using or touching the surface.
How to Paint over Flex Shot:
Another flex seal product you can’t paint over is the Flex shot. The Flex shot can be used as a top-quality adhesive but also serves as a sealant for windows and doors. Also, the Flex shot can be used with most commercially available paints and urethanes.
1. Apply a thin layer of primer to the surface that you will be painting. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding.
2. Once the primer is dry, apply a thin layer of Flex Shot to the surface.
3. Allow the Flex Shot to dry completely before adding additional coats.
4. For best results, we recommend applying 2-3 coats of Flex Shot to the surface. Allow each coat to dry completely before adding the next.
How to apply Flex Seal Liquid:
1. Flex Seal Liquid can be easily applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer. For best results, we recommend using a high-quality brush or roller designed for use with liquids.
2. Begin by adding a thin layer of Flex Seal Liquid to the surface that you will be coating.
3. Allow the first layer to dry completely before adding additional coats.
4. For best results, we recommend applying 2-3 coats of Flex Seal Liquid to the surface. Allow each coat to dry completely before adding the next.
5. Once you are satisfied with the number of coats, allow the paint to dry completely before using or touching the surface.
How to remove Flex Seal Liquid:
If you need to remove Flex Seal Liquid for any reason, we recommend using a high-quality solvent or stripper. For best results, we recommend following the manufacturer’s directions for use.
1. Begin by adding a small amount of the solvent or stripper to a clean cloth.
2. Rub the cloth over the Flex Seal Liquid until it is saturated.
3. Allow the solvent or stripper to sit on the Flex Seal Liquid for the recommended amount of time.
4. Use a putty knife or scraper to remove any remaining Flex Seal Liquid.
5. Wash the area with soap and water to remove any residual solvent or stripper.
Can you add color to Flex Seal Liquid?
Yes, Flex Seal Liquid can be tinted with most commercially available paint tints. For best results, we recommend using a high-quality paint tint designed for use with liquids.
1. Begin by adding a small amount of the tint to the Flex Seal Liquid.
2. Stir the tint and Flex Seal Liquid together until the desired color is achieved.
3. Apply the tinted Flex Seal Liquid to the surface that you will be coating.
4. Allow the first layer to dry completely before adding additional coats.
5. For best results, we recommend applying 2-3 coats of tinted Flex Seal Liquid to the surface. Allow each coat to dry completely before adding the next.
6. Once you are satisfied with the number of coats, allow the paint to dry completely before using or touching the surface.
Can you use Flex Seal Paint on Wood?
Flex seal paint on wood makes the wood waterproof, rot-resistant, and scratch-resistant and a coat of flex Seal will protect indoor and outdoor furniture from UV light, moisture, and fungi attacks.Flex Seal protects wood by seeping into the fibers and sealing it from the inside.
To apply Flex Seal to wood, first, clean the surface of the wood with a mild soap and water solution. Next, roughen up the surface of the wood with sandpaper to help the Flex Seal adhere better. Once the wood is dry, apply a generous amount of Flex Seal with a brush, making sure to get into all the cracks and crevices. Allow the first coat to dry for at least 24 hours before applying a second coat.
Below are some of my favorite wood paint over flex seals;