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Acid Based Concrete Stains

"With Acid Based Concrete Stains every concrete slab is unique!"

Acid based concrete stains are penetrating concrete stains that enter the surface pores and chemically react with the cement. The result of this reaction is a natural looking, permanent color and durable finish that won't peel or flake.

Unlike paint, acid stains create a variegated or mottled look like marble. You can choose from several colors, mostly earth tones, and use your creativity to make decorative color schemes and patterns.

The following represents a typical acid stain color chart.

Acid based concrete stains aren't new. They've been around for many years but were mainly used in commercial applications such as museum floors. In recent years, however, they have become increasingly popular for residential use.

Whether your concrete is old or new, acid based concrete stains can create a refreshing and unique look. It can be used on interior or exterior surfaces including:

• Driveways
• Patios
• Porches
• Walkways
• Landscape pavers
• Retaining Walls
• Garage floors
• Basement floors

Acid stains are transparent concrete stains. The concrete's surface textures and characteristics are still visible after staining which adds depth and a somewhat marbled look. But if your concrete has any scars, blemishes, or cracks they will also be apparent which is not necessarily a bad thing.

It adds character and uniqueness. Don't feel that you need perfect concrete for beautiful staining. Expect to have variations throughout because with acid stains, a completely uniform color is impossible.

Due to inconsistencies in the concrete surface and all the other variables that come into play, no two slabs will ever stain exactly like. This is the biggest benefit of acid staining. Every project is a one of a kind.

If there are cracks, don't bother fixing them prior to staining. You'll just make them look worse. Actually, cracks also add character. But if you are bothered by cracks, then you need to fill them with an epoxy crack filler and apply an overlay before acid staining.

If you choose to venture beyond basic staining, you can score the surface to make outlines and patterns. I found that using an angle grinder with a 4 inch masonry grinding blade is fairly easy. Draw your lines with a pencil and then trace over them with a marker because the grinder blows the pencil dust away.

Acid based concrete stains can be a great project for the do-it-yourselfer as long as you don't try to take on a job too difficult. You've probably been to other websites and seen pictures of immaculate staining designs with detailed color schemes and patterns. Some of these websites even offer videos telling the secrets of the pros.

But these jobs were done by highly skilled tradesmen and concrete artists. It's alot easier said than done. I don't mean to discourage anyone, but the stain is permanent and you don't want to mess it up because you took on more than you could handle. I recommend hiring a contractor if that's the type of work you're looking for.

Just know that simple coloring using simple techniques is all you need to give your drab concrete a wonderful new look.

When it comes to buying acid stains, most brands are good and will color concrete the way they're supposed to. Surface prep, application methods, and the condition of the concrete itself will determine the outcome. Acid stains can be hard to find so buying online is usually the easiest. Be sure to buy from a reputable company that provides Concrete Stain, Supplies, and instructions for use of thier products.

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