Satin VS Epoxy coat

[JJStelly]

I am new to the site but love the information that is provided; I just built a new garage and I want to do something with the concrete. I see there are a lot of opinions on the best epoxy coatings, but would like to know everyones opinion about Stain VS Coatings. It seems to me stain would be the way to go as it would be less likely to peel. Please let me know the general consesus any help advice would be appreciated

Jay

 

[menz300]

Acid stains are a great decorative product and I usually suggest them for people for sidewalks, patios, porches and basements and suggest epoxy for garage floors. If you spill most anything on an epoxy floor it wipes right off where an acid stain floor will get darker and you won't be able to wipe it off. I do like the look of acid stain with the mottling effect you get of the colors. Just my 2 cents....

 

[roger55]

How about putting stain on a garage floor and then coat with clear epoxy?
That would look cool.
Can you put clear epoxy over stained concrete?

 

[thegarageguy]

topcoating a stain would be nessessary for a garage floor. Stain on its own will not only discolor but stain with vehicle fuids and the dirt and debris associated with vehicular traffic.

Be sure that if you do decide to topcoat a stain, that it is fully neutralized, completely dry and free of residue.

I would suggest a 100 % solid epoxy clear of your choice, then topcoat it with your favorite poly or polyaspartic. Don't forget to add texture.

One last thing, remember that if your slab is damaged or stained allready, that an acid stain or dye will not hide it but rather highlight it. An unrepaired crack when using epoxies and poly's may eventually move and cause moisture to work its way in and cause failure down the road.

For anyone that would care for the stained and sealed look but has a damaged or stained slab, I would recommend a microtopping or overlay first.