Prep is where the project is won
Concrete coatings and stains need a clean, sound surface. If the slab is dusty, oily, sealed, or damaged, pause before coating. Start with prep, patch, prime and seal and then move into garage floor and concrete coatings once the surface is ready.
Concrete prep checklist
- Sweep and vacuum loose dust and debris.
- Degrease oil spots and scrub dirty areas.
- Rinse thoroughly when the cleaner requires it.
- Patch cracks, chips, and spalled areas.
- Check for old sealer by seeing whether water soaks in or beads up.
- Etch or profile the concrete when the coating system requires it.
- Let the slab dry fully before coating.
- Tape edges and stage tools before mixing any coating.
Why this matters
Most coating problems are not caused by the color. They are caused by bond failure. A little extra prep makes the finished floor easier to love and easier to maintain.
Weekend tip
Split the project into prep day and coating day if you can. That gives repairs time to cure, lets the slab dry, and makes the actual coating day feel a lot more fun.