A good cleaning might convince you that you don’t need to cover your brick floors after all! Acid cleaners are harsh chemicals, so be sure to wear safety goggles and protective gloves while you’re cleaning. Also, open any windows or doors to ventilate the area. These products are usually labeled as “acidic cleaners,” “brick cleaners” or “masonry cleaners. " You can also simply purchase phosphoric acid. [2] X Research source If you prefer not to handle acid cleaners, scrub the floor with a wire brush and a mixture of 1⁄2 cup (0. 12 L) of trisodium phosphate (TSP) and 2 US gal (7. 6 L) instead. You’ll still need to wear goggles and gloves![3] X Research source
Apply the sealant in thin layers with a paint roller or paintbrush. Be sure to carefully follow the label directions! Clean the floor thoroughly and let it dry completely before you seal it so you don’t trap any dirt or moisture against the brick. You’ll need to reapply the sealant every 3-5 years to keep your floors protected.
For a more subtle effect, mix 1 part paint to 2 or 3 parts water. If you prefer, you can also dab the whitewash onto the brick with a rag. If the floor was previously painted, remove the old paint with a putty knife or wire brush.
You may need two coats of paint to get the coverage you want. For a really fun look, try using large stencils to create patterns over the brick! Stencils that are 1 ft (0. 30 m) or larger work best. [8] X Research source
Unlike paint, stain will penetrate into the brick, so staining can be a longer-lasting option than painting.
Just remember to factor in the difference in height between your existing brick floor and the new floor with the plywood and overlay. For instance, it could make some doors harder to open.
Don’t fit the laminate tightly against the wall—leave about 3⁄4 in (1. 9 cm) of extra space so the flooring can expand. The underlayment will protect the laminate from any moisture that may come up through the bricks and plywood, and it will also create a more comfortable walking surface. Laminate flooring is durable and inexpensive, but it’s not water-resistant and may show wear over time. [12] X Research source
Stick-on tiles are really easy to use—they just need to be pressed onto the subfloor. To install vinyl sheet flooring, create a large stencil of your floor with butcher paper and tape. Use a utility knife to cut the vinyl sheet, then spread the vinyl out in the room and attach it to the floor with double-sided tape. [13] X Research source
To install the engineered floor, place a foam underlayment on top of your subfloor. Then, place your wood planks one at a time, starting parallel to the longest wall in the room.
Laying carpet is pretty labor-intensive—consider having it professionally installed!
You can even use multiple rugs to designate different areas in the room, like a large circular rug under a table and a rectangular rug in front of your sofa.
