Stained Concrete
A blog post about all the things you need to know about stained concrete, including how it can be used for decorative purposes or as an alternative to carpeting. Stains come in a variety of colors and patterns that can be customized based on your preferences–we’ll talk more about this later! We’ll also talk about how to maintain stained concrete floors, walkways, patios, pool decks, and driveways so they stay in good condition. Stained concrete is a great way to get the look of natural stone without the high cost.
What is Stained Concrete?
Staining concrete is somewhat similar to painting. However, the most significant difference is that concrete stains penetrate the surface of the concrete to impart permanent color. Whereas concrete paint is applied and stays on the outside of the concrete. This paint can flake or chip away, which leads to an unsightly appearance that must be maintained regularly with new coats of paint. Concrete stains are applied and soak into the concrete for lasting color that doesn’t require frequent recoats to maintain. There are two types of concrete stains that are most commonly used. These stains are explained below:
Acid-based Concrete Stains
Acid-based concrete stains react with the concrete chemically to create permanent color. These stains can react with each concrete surface differently. Therefore, it’s best to test a small corner of your concrete to ensure the dried color is what you really want. However, this unpredictability can easily be made use of to create beautiful, fantastic effects, such as mottling or marbled patterns. Acid concrete stains are available in primarily earthy tones like tan, brown, green, and blue.
Water-based Concrete Stains
Water-based concrete stains are designed to penetrate the porous surface of the concrete leave lasting color. These stains are much more predictable in their coloring, so there are usually not many surprises when they’re applied. Water concrete stains are available in a wide range of vibrant colors for practically any design scheme.
The Concrete Staining Process
The concrete staining process is best left to professionals. The process includes covering the concrete surface with a thin layer of acid and then applying a pigment or dye paste. The whole staining process takes about two days to complete, but it’s worth it for that vibrant finish!
If you’re using a water-based concrete stain, the process involves applying a water-based cleanser to the concrete and then applying a stain. Stains applied this way typically require about 30 minutes of drying time between coats.
Concrete Staining Costs
The cost of concrete staining will depend on the size and complexity, as well as what products you choose. When you choose to stain your existing concrete surfaces, the cost per square foot is about $0.75-$0.80 for the concrete stain and application, depending on what is included in your package of services (such as removing old paint or sealer). When choosing to have new stained concrete installed, it can be anywhere from about $12-14 per square foot before installation costs are added to that price.
Concrete Staining Costs
Once you’ve had your stained concrete installed by a professional, you’ll need to keep it maintained! Stained concrete maintenance includes sweeping the surface with a broom, scrubbing it down, and washing it off periodically. With this simple routine, your stained concrete will last for years!
Summing Things Up
To sum things up, stained concrete is a beautiful and long-lasting type of design that can be used in many different ways. Whether for indoor or outdoor use, it will always add character to any space!