How to Prepare Urethane for a Concrete Floor

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    Clean the Floor

    • 1). Sweep and/or scrape debris and dirt from the floor. If paint is peeling from your floor, chances are there is a moisture problem that must be fixed, or any new application of coating will continue to fail.

    • 2). Clean the concrete floor with a solution made of one part bleach, one part water. Liberally scrub the cleaner onto the floor with a stiff brush, then mop up the solution and rinse the floor often. Allow the floor to dry, using floor fans if possible.

    • 3). Etch the floor with a solution of muriatic acid, using all safety precautions listed by the manufacturer. Apply the solution as per the label's instructions to allow a more stable surface for adhesion of any coatings to your floor.

    Choose Your Coating

    • 1). Choose a clear urethane coating for previously painted floors or floors that have been etched to promote adhesion, but be aware that urethane is typically recommended as a finish coat for previously painted or stained concrete floors.

    • 2). Choose a water-based floor enamel already containing urethane if the concrete floor has never been painted and sees moderate use as a storage area. Acrylic floor enamel with urethane has the added benefits of low odor, soap and water clean up, and quicker drying times. These enamels are not typically found in a high-gloss finish, though a separate clear coating of urethane can be applied over the paint for a glossier finish.

    • 3). Choose oil-based floor enamel already containing urethane for residential concrete or garage floors that see heavy use, including the wear and tear of vehicles parked on them on a regular basis. Oil-based urethane floor enamel often dries to a glossy, hard finish that usually doesn't require a separate clear coat of urethane. If you're using oil-based urethane floor enamel, there are some drawbacks, including increased odor and clean up that requires paint thinner.

    Apply the Coating

    • 1). Choose brushes and rollers that are specifically made for either water- or oil-based products. For example, nylon products are typically used for water-based products, while a natural or china bristle brush is for oil-based products.

    • 2). Brush, roll, or spray on the floor paint containing urethane. If you are applying only the clear urethane as a finish coat for your floor, use a brush or paint pad to avoid bubbles.

    • 3). Wait 24 hours before walking on the surface, regardless of whether you used a water- or oil-based paint or urethane.

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