[slickracer]

I'm planning to finish the concrete steps leading from my basement to a screened-in porch. I'm debating whether to use a product like SW Porch & Floor enamel or concrete stain. The concrete is unfinished presently. Any ideas to point me in the right direction or products that you would recommend?

 

[Dana11]

Concrete which can be found in and around the home in driveways, walkways, basement walls and floors etc. There are two ways to treat concrete whether it is inside or outside your home either staining or painting.


Choosing whether to stain or to paint your concrete would depend largely upon both the current state of the concrete (new or old and previously treated) as well as the look you want to achieve.

Staining

Similar to wood stain, concrete stain permeates the surface and provides a long-lasting, durable and decorative finish on interior and exterior concrete and masonry surfaces. The stain permeates the surface and actually bonds with concrete and masonry to form a tough shield that doesn’t fade, peel or flake like paint. To extend the life of the stain, consider using a clear stain as a final coat.



Painting

Painting is a good choice if you want to create a more solid look, cover over any imperfections in the concrete or are simply re-painting an already painted concrete surface. An ideal choice of paint for basements is one that offers a waterproof feature as well as mildew resistance.


Make sure the surface is free from dirt and grease, and it is completely dry whatever you choose paint or concrete.


Dana