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Whether it's better to stain or paint concrete depends on your budget, desired aesthetic, and DIY skill level. Generally, staining is a more durable option because the stain soaks into the concrete's surface and won't wear away like a topical paint coating. Painting concrete can trap moisture underneath the paint layer, which may cause the concrete to deteriorate over time. However, concrete paint offers a wider variety of colors, is typically easier and less expensive to apply, and is effective at covering up existing stains or blemishes on the surface.

The concrete that likely already makes up your garage floor is the longest-lasting garage floor material, although you can treat it with a variety of coverings to improve its durability. Epoxy is one of the most popular options, as it’s relatively affordable, adds strength to the floor, helps prevent staining and physical damage, and even improves the resistance to water intrusion. Other popular options for durable floor coverings include rubber, an aspartic coating, and vinyl.

Epoxy paint is a popular option for concrete due to its durability and stain resistance. You can also use masonry paint, which adheres well to concrete. Acrylic paints are more affordable but not as durable. Concrete stain is another option, which is more durable than paint and won’t peel over time. 

The cost to seal concrete is around $1,500 on average, but you could spend anywhere from $1,000 to $7,000, depending on the type of sealer used and the size of the space. You may want to seal concrete that receives a large amount of foot traffic or heavy wear. While you can seal concrete yourself with materials from a home improvement store, you must ensure the surface is clean and ready to accept the sealer. Hiring a professional is often recommended to ensure good, even coverage that provides adequate protection.