Abstract: A coated article is provided that includes a cement composite substrate; and a coating system applied to the substrate. The coating system includes an epoxy-functional coating composition applied to the substrate, and a water-based coating composition, distinct from the epoxy-functional coating composition, applied to the epoxy-based coating. between the compositions. A method is also provided that includes the steps of: providing a cement composite substrate; applying an epoxy-functional coating composition to the substrate; and applying a water-based coating composition, distinct from the epoxy-functional coating composition, to the epoxy-based coating. The water-based coating composition used in this method preferably comprises a polymer having one or more functional groups that can react with the epoxy-based coating to promote adhesion between the compositions.