You can whiten concrete for unsealed and unfinished concrete with a solution or either muriatic acid or bleach and water—but never both. However, if your concrete does have a stain, finish, or polish, keep in mind that these hard chemicals could damage the topcoat. Your best bet otherwise is to power wash outdoor concrete slabs or clean indoor ones with a gentle cleaner such as laundry or dish detergent.
You should sand concrete before painting, as it helps remove any irregularities and pieces that stick out from the surface. This not only helps the paint look better but it prevents any unwanted water absorption.
To preserve a concrete coating, routine maintenance should include regular sweeping and cleaning to remove debris and dirt, promptly addressing any spills to prevent staining, and applying a sealer as the manufacturer recommends. Inspect the surface periodically for any signs of wear or damage to ensure timely repairs and maintain the coating's protective qualities.
Concrete can take years to fully settle, but interior concrete floors are mostly settled after a year. Shifting and settling can occur throughout your home’s life, but most major settling happens the first few years after the concrete is poured. It’s not uncommon for minor cracks to appear in concrete floors over time—check with a concrete pro to ensure new cracks don’t indicate a structural issue in your home.
Yes, it is possible to apply a concrete coating yourself, especially for smaller applications if you have the proper equipment. However, for larger projects, a professional application is recommended to ensure durability, slip resistance, and proper adhesion.
The Carlin, NV homeowners’ guide to epoxy flooring services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
This guide breaks down the cost of installing epoxy flooring in your garage, basement, or other space. Costs depend on resin type, floor size, and more.
Epoxy flooring adds shine and durability to your basement, studio, or garage floor. Check out these epoxy flooring ideas to create the room of your dreams.