LESLIE: Eddie in Rhode Island is on the line with a question about the best paint for concrete. How can we help you?
EDDIE: I have cement steps and it seems like every year I’m repainting them. And I’ve been using an exterior oil-based paint. I didn’t know if there’s a reason why they’re peeling every year or if I’m doing something wrong.
TOM: Are you using a masonry paint?
EDDIE: I thought that’s what that is but I won’t answer that question.
TOM: Then maybe the answer is no. The best paint for concrete
are designed specifically for masonry surfaces. The other thing that you might want to think about doing next time is to strip off all the old paint and use an epoxy-based paint.
EDDIE: An epoxy paint?
TOM: Yeah. It’s got really good adhesion. It’s a two-part mix. You mix it together, then you apply it to the steps. And there are versions that are designed for exterior, as well as interior – under roof spaces, like garages. And I think you’ll find that that will really, really stand up because it’s not an air dry or solvent-based. It’s a chemically hardening system that basically reacts and hardens.
EDDIE: And how long would that paint last do you think?
TOM: I think it will last a heck of a long time.
EDDIE: OK. A lot more than a year.
TOM: Oh, yeah.
EDDIE: OK. Alright. Well, that answers my question. I really appreciate the information.
LESLIE: Alright. Thanks so much for calling The Money Pit.
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