Stained concrete is extremely popular and functional for all types of interior floors. Stained concrete floors are beautiful, durable and easy to clean in all types of residential, commercial or industrial settings.
There are many different choices when it comes to deciding which concrete or cement floor stain, dye or coloring system is right for your flooring project. Desired color, your surroundings and even the concrete itself will all play a part in the decision you make. We offer a full range of stain options for all types of interior decorative concrete staining projects. Also keep in mind that after staining, your floor will also require a protective sealer to protect the colored concrete from wear, spills and damage. The sealer you choose will also influence the final color and appearance of your stained concrete project. Be sure to see our “Help Center” page specifically for sealing concrete floors.
Below, we will discuss the floor cleaning and preparation process, along with the different types of stains and dyes available for creating beautiful stained concrete floors. In addition to the resources here in the “help center”, you can also find detailed information and color charts for every product we offer, by visiting that product’s page. We know how confusing all of this can be, but that’s what we’re here for! If you have questions, give us a call or send us an email and we’ll be glad to help you through the process.
* Concrete Floor Cleaning and Preparation
Before applying ANY product to ANY steel troweled floor, the surface MUST be opened by chemically etching or by mechanically grinding or shot blasting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you plan to short-cut this step, you had might as well go ahead and dump your money down the toilet. Trowel finishing closes the pores at the surface preventing stains, dyes, sealers or any other coating from being able to penetrate and bond. The only exception to this rule is when applying acid stains. Acid stains, if applied to a clean floor, will effectively open the surface enough to allow for bonding of most sealers. If acid stains are used, be sure to thoroughly neutralize the surface before any coating is applied.
We carry a full line of floor grinding tools by Diamabrush. These amazing diamond brushes fit most all standard floor machines readily available at your local rental center. They give both homeowners and contractors the ability to properly prep concrete floors without the huge expense of owning a planetary diamond grinder. Many rental stores, including most Home Depot locations, also rent the Diamabrush tools as well.
Always review and follow the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines for prep and application of any concrete stain, dye or sealer. You can find these recommendations by reviewing that product’s technical data sheet, along with the “Detailed Info” on that product’s page.
Concrete Acetone Dyes
Concrete Dyes are the latest technology in concrete coloring. They are much easier to apply, available in many more colors than the acids and give more predictable results. Dyes typically come in a concentrate form that you dilute with acetone before use. Dyes require no sloppy neutralizing or rinsing, and can be sealed almost immediately after application. UV stability will vary depending on the specific formulation. Our powdered dyes are for interior use only and can be either polished or sealed. Our Liquid Dyes are fully UV stable and require a film-forming top-coat to protect the color and lock them in place.
- Recommended Products:
Surfkoat
Kolour Dye
Surfkoat
Polishing Dye
Swissmex
Acetone Sprayer
Concrete Acid Stains
Also called reactive stains, these traditional concrete stains create a chemical reaction with the minerals in concrete, producing the random mottled look of antique stone. Available in a variety of earth tones, these UV stable stains are permanent and require a sealer topcoat. Be aware that the acid staining process is not hard, but it is messy and labor intensive. After acid staining a concrete floor, the slab may need an extended period of time to completely dry out from the large volume of water absorbed during the staining / neutralizing / rinsing process. All types of sealers can be used over acid stains, including penetrating sealers for a completely natural appearance.
- Recommended Products:
SurfKoat
Concrete Acid Stain
Balance
Concrete Neutralizer
Swissmex
Acid Sprayer
