Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500145
06/24/03
Concrete, Cement Floor-Care and Cleaning
Care
Concrete floors can be sealed to prevent staining,
since without sealing it is porous, and absorbs stains
readily. The floor must cure and dry after it is laid
before it can be sealed, with the time required varying
with weather, temperature, building conditions, etc.
Floors must be clean, and any remaining alkali in the
concrete must be neutralized before sealing. Contact a
good paint store or cement dealer for complete
instructions and materials to use.
Cleaning
Cement is porous, whether used as a floor in garage,
porch or patio, driveway or walks. Often a porch, or
patio floor surface will have an extra smooth surface,
but it will still absorb stains easily. It may be sealed
or painted.
Painting cement may not prove satisfactory, if there
is moisture rising from beneath the surface, which will
cause paint to peel.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus with references from Georgia
Extension bulletin Buying and Caring for Smooth Surface
Flooring: Masonry.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
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Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .