Staining concrete is one of the most popular applications for transforming mundane concrete slabs into architectural works of art. Homeowners, designers and builders are drawn to stained concrete because of the dramatic and unique effect that can be achieved by combining colors and various application techniques.
Stain isn’t a paint or coating agent. It’s a coloring process involving a chemical reaction on a cementitious material. It’s a long-term, durable solution that can turn any plain concrete floor into an attractive, low maintenance surface. Concrete stain is offered in a variety of color choices, and, when combined with creative design, can create a beautiful one-of-a-kind look.
Acid-based Stains
Acid-based stains give concrete a mottled, variegated, marble-like appearance. With these types of stain, the effect is never uniform, and the tones will vary from slab to slab. Even one slab can have random, multi-hued color variations…which is part of the appeal and charm of acid-stained concrete.
Acid stain penetrates and reacts with concrete and cement to produce rich, attractive finishes. When applied to concrete, the stain’s metallic ions combine with concrete particles. The resulting oxides produce a variety of mottled colors that are ideal for both interior and exterior projects.
Acid stain is the most durable and the most UV resistant of the concrete staining systems. Colors available range from subtle earth tones (tan, brown, terra cotta) to soft blues and greens. We also offer concrete dyes to help expand the color palette for additional options.
Water-based Stains
Water-based stains don’t contain caustic ingredients, and can be used as an alternative to solvent and acid-based stains. They’re ideal for stamped concrete rejuvenation or for adding color to untreated or aged concrete. Water-based stains are designed for use with most overlay systems, and can be used over many acrylics. Although the effect of using a water-based stain isn’t as abstract, mottled or variegated as the effect you’ll get from acid-based stain, there are many more color choices in the water-based category.
Dyes
Dyes are available in a wide range of colors, and offer a vibrancy and intensity that can’t be achieved with stains. Unlike stains, which react chemically with the calcium hydroxide in concrete, dyes are non-reactive and impart color simply by penetrating a porous surface.
Dyes are available in water-based and solvent-based formulations, and produce varied results ranging from monotoned to translucent, depending on how they are applied. Water-based dyes typically produce more marbling and variegation (similar to the look of a chemical stain), while solvent-based dyes tend to be more monotoned and uniform in color. Some manufacturers offer water-based and solvent-based dyes that can be mixed together to produce special color effects. There is one downside to using dyes — they penetrate quickly, leaving little room for error during application. Also, dyes aren’t UV stable, so most manufacturers recommend indoor use only.
