Can you paint a floor as a temporary option?

[sarahdee]

 

 

 

 

I’m looking for an affordable option for flooring for a hallway and 2 bedrooms. The carpet had to be pulled up in the hallway and then I tried to lay a floating floor (hybrid clip lock planks) but it was not great and had to be pulled up (the subfloor is not completely flat, the hallway has lots of nooks and doorways so cutting the planks to fit was a nightmare and ultimately the planks drifted apart). I’ve been putting off doing anything in there because I just can’t decide what to do plus I don’t have much money to put towards it.

Ultimately I’d like a Lino/vinyl to be installed, I like the look of a modern seamless light coloured floor in the style of a polished concrete, something like Senso sheet vinyl in Dune Grey but when I read the installation guide it says I can’t install it straight on the subfloor because vinyl will react with the chemicals the subfloor was treated with. So I’m thinking that I might just paint the floor instead.

For context:

- the subfloor is some sort of particle board

- its a bit wonky, too wonky to lay clip lock boards (like the hybrid planks)

- I can’t afford to pay someone else to install so it needs to be something I can DIY

- I’m not confident in pulling up the subfloor to replace so that it’s even enough to put a floating floor on

- I was going to put sheet vinyl down but now it looks like I’d have to put Masonite underlay or IBS hardboard down first (according to the product guide)

So my question is, can I paint the subfloor as a semi temporary option? If I can, then what things do I need to know? I’ve done some research and the general consensus seems to be to use an oil based paint but is there anything important I need to consider (other than the standard prep the area steps).

pics of subfloor attached for reference

Thanks! 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @sarahdee,

It sounds like you're dealing with a tricky situation, especially with the uneven particle board subfloor and the challenges of working within a budget. Painting the particle board may seem like a quick fix, but there are some significant issues to consider.

First, as you mentioned, the existing compromised surface could pose a problem for paint adhesion. Even with thorough preparation, particle board is porous and tends to swell or degrade when exposed to moisture, which can make the paint peel or chip over time. I'm also not aware of a floor paint suitable for over particleboard.

Given that you're leaning towards a modern, polished look like the Senso sheet vinyl, I’d recommend moving forward with the underlay approach. Installing masonite underlay can give you a smoother, more stable surface that will protect the vinyl from reacting with the chemicals in the particle board. This will also allow you to achieve a more professional finish and ensure the vinyl flooring holds up over time.

If you're concerned about tackling the underlay installation yourself, masonite underlay is relatively straightforward to install with a few basic tools. You’ll need to make sure the surface is as clean and level as possible, secure the underlay with nails, and ensure any gaps are filled to create a smooth surface for the vinyl.

While painting the subfloor may offer a temporary solution, it's unlikely to achieve the durable, polished look you're after. Opting for the underlay now will save you time and effort in the long run, and will provide a better base for when you’re ready to install the vinyl you want. 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell