Concrete Stain FAQWill the concrete acid stain peel or fade like paint?
- No. Concrete acid stain is not a topical coat like paint or acrylic stains. It penetrates the surface and chemically stains the concrete surface.
I've seen an acrylic concrete stain at my local home improvement store. Is this the same as yours? If not, how do they differ?
- Absolutely not.
- An acrylic stain is basically a tinted sealer. An acrylic clear sealer with paint pigments added. When using acrylic stains, you are being tricked into painting your concrete.
- An acid stain penetrates the surface and reacts with the cement and minerals within the concrete to chemically change the color of the concrete's surface.
Can I do this myself, or do I need to hire a contractor?
- You can definately do it yourself. Of course a professional contractor would have experience and advanced techniques, but with a safe and professional attitude, paying attention to detail, not getting in a hurry, and using common sense, anyone can stain concrete.
- Be sure to read all safety precautions and warnings on all labels.
Is it difficult to stain concrete?
- Staining concrete is basically cleaning, brushing, spraying, paint rolling, and mopping.
Where do I get Application Instructions?
What if my concrete has been painted, sealed, covered with an acrylic stain, or some other glue down product?
- You must strip or remove all paints, sealers, waxes, glues, etc. The stain has to penetrate the concrete surface to work.
- Test. Pour water on the concrete. If it beads up, the stain can't penetrate.
Can I use the stain on a retaining wall?
- Absolutely. Spray it on and use a brush in a circular motion to take out any runs as you go. Leave it unsealed if you like for a natural flat look.
Can I use the stain on the sides of my houseslab so it will blend with the stone and brick?
- Absolutely, what a great idea!
Why do I have to wash off the residue before sealing?
- The ammonia and water will neutralize the stain which is very important. Rinsing will wash away the amonia.
- The residue as well as active acid will prevent the sealer from bonding.
Is it expensive to do?
- When doing it yourself, the costs are figured in cents, not dollars, with the average project costing less than 50 cents per square foot. You can't even get the 12" stick down tiles that inexpensively.
- When using a contractor, the costs vary but still should be less than nice carpet or linoleum. And definately less than an outside decorative surface.
How do I figure the amount of stain I need?
Does Concrete Camouflage offer Contracting Services? How much does it cost if you do?
- No. We do not offer contracting. Although we do have many Contractors who use our materials and who would be happy to do your work.
What if my question is not answered here?
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