Paint is an affordable and useful means of improving the appearance of a concrete floor. A path, porch, patio, garage floor, driveway, carport or basement floor are primary candidates for such a finish. As with any painting project, the key to a successful job has much to do with preparation. In order for the paint to properly adhere, the surface should be thoroughly washed with a solution consisting of one cup of powdered laundry detergent, one cup of liquid chlorine bleach in one gallon of hot water. For maximum results, exterior areas such as patios, carports and driveways should be power-washed or steam-cleaned. To further improve adhesion, the concrete should be lightly etched with a 10-percent solution of muriatic acid. Be sure to use caution when working with acid by carefully following the manufacturer's directions. While latex floor paints are the most widely used finish, oil-base and epoxy paints are more abrasion-resistant and tend to last longer. And that's the On The House tip for today.