How to Stain Concrete

Staining concrete is a traditional way that gives more attractive look to any concrete surface. It also protects concrete from natural elements. Well, what is a concrete stain? Unlike a coating or paint, concrete stain penetrates deep and chemically reacts with concrete. It infuses the cement with deep, permanent color that usually doesn’t peal away or flake off.

There are two major categories of concrete stains such as solid color stain, called pigmented sealer and transparent or reactive stain, called acid stain. Solid color concrete stain offers a solid, even look, while acid stain gives a transparent, marble-like look to the concrete floor. Acid stain is a mixture of hydrochloric acid, water and acid-soluble metallic salts. It penetrates the concrete surface and reacts chemically with calcium hydroxide present in concrete. Once the acid reacts with stain, it becomes a permanent part of concrete. It generally won’t fade or peel. Some concrete stains contain a mixture of muriatic acid and metallic salts. You can also purchase some eco-friendly water-based masonry stains. These stains are generally water-based modified acrylic products.

When concrete is stained, you need to periodically apply some additional coats of stain, because sunlight, wear and tear and other environmental factors would fade the colors with time. Before staining the concrete surface, it should be cleaned properly. You should remove any dirt, oil or grease from the surface. Clean the surface using a soap and water, followed by a pressure washer rinse. This will provide a superior concrete surface that is ideal for staining. While applying the stain, the surface temperature between 45 and 90 degrees F is preferred. Hence, spring and fall are considered the best seasons to stain concrete.

How to Stain Concrete

Concrete staining offers a dazzling look to concrete walls, patios, flooring and outdoor surfaces. Follow these guidelines for staining the concrete surface. First, carefully clean the concrete surface in order to remove traces of dirt, oil or moisture. If there are any holes or cracks in the surface, repair them using hydraulic cement. The concrete surface should be sealed with a masonry coating. Allow it to dry completely. Apply a primer coat using a sprayer or roller. Once it is dried completely, apply a layer of paint and allow it to dry. You can apply additional coats if required. It should be followed by an application of a single coat of sealer.

How to Stain Interior Concrete Floor

You can select acid stains for the interior concrete floor, which imparts an appealing look similar to the natural stone or ceramic tile. It actually does not coat the floor, but reacts with concrete to create a blotched effect, which resembles the appearance of marble or stone. This durable flooring solution comes in variety of color shades such as tan, brown and other earth tones. Follow these instructions to stain interior concrete flooring.

• Cover the areas around the concrete floor in order to protect them from staining.
• Clean concrete surface to remove any dirt, grease or oil.
• Apply stain color on a small area of the floor surface to judge how it looks.
• Score the concrete surface using a saw with a diamond blade. It will help to create a pattern or grout lines. Score lines also help to define the areas where different colors of stain can be applied.
• Then apply acid stain to obtain the desired pattern or special effect. You can achieve a richer color by using a greater amount of stain.
• Once the stain is completely dried, apply the second coat. When the stain is dried, scrub off any stain residue.
• An application of a sealer can help to protect the stained floor. It will also offer a shiny appearance to the stained concrete floor.

How to Stain a Concrete Patio

Concrete stains are available in a variety of attractive colors. Staining is a perfect way to turn any ordinary patio into a wonderful outdoor living space. Before you start staining a concrete patio, remove any dirt, using a pressure washer. You can use a non-residue cleaner or degreaser in order to remove tough stains. Scrub the patio area using a brush and then rinse with water. Create some protective barrier for the shrubs and grass around the patio. You can use a concrete cleaner with muriatic or phosphoric acid. It helps to neutralize the alkalinity present in the surface, which facilitate proper adherence of stain to the concrete surface. Rinse the patio area with water and let it dry for about 48 hours. Then apply concrete stain with a roller or sprayer on the extension pole. Before applying the second coat, wait at least for 24 hours, so that the primary coat gets dried completely.

Concrete stains not only give an eye-catching look to the concrete surfaces, but also protect them against environmental exposure. They help to keep the concrete flooring, patios, walls and outdoor areas fresh and attractive for years.