Acid Stained Concrete

If you've been considering a way to jazz up your concrete flooring then you may want to consider acid stained concrete. Most people tend to think of concrete as hard cold slabs of gray or white stone. However, with the process of acid staining, concrete can take on rich, deep beautiful colors that must be seen to be believed. The process involves adding certain minerals to the concrete and then the hydration process will create beautiful colors. Once the design, color, and pattern desired are achieved, the floor is then cured and sealed with a protective covering.

Acid stained concrete is a beautiful way to create stunning floors, walls, even concrete structures and is quickly becoming a popular trend. No longer do people need to worry about ways to hide unsightly bare concrete, acid staining can be used in solid colors or in intricate artistic designs that rival some of the most expensive marble and wood textures.

Most acid stained concrete produces a range of earth tones, however, those skilled with the technique can produce a wide variety of additional hues. Special techniques can also be applied to control the depth and vibrancy of the colors as well. Additionally, many professional contractors who color concrete may use a combination of both acid stains and dyes to create an even wider spectrum of colors for your concrete projects. By blending more than one acid stain an even greater choice of styles can be obtained. Using other application methods, such as a wet and dry technique can produce beautiful and natural looking variegated, marbleized, and even patina textures. Some prefer to use colors, both light and dark and apply them on top of one another while both stains are wet. Preferably, the lighter acid stain is applied before the second, darker color. This technique allows the different colors to blend and have a softer edge or appearance. The concrete is then left to dry and cure.

If you would like to create concrete projects where the two colors create hard, bold lines (useful for creating distinct patterns) you may prefer to apply the first lighter acid stain in certain areas, according to your design, and then let that coat dry and cure for five hours. Once that coat is finished curing and is completely dry, you can then add your second or darker acid stain. This application is applied to other areas of your design. With this method, the lines will not be soft and blended, but bold, bright, and distinctive.

When an acid staining process is complete, it is important to apply a sealer. There are various types of sealer used for concrete. These are acrylics, silicone based sealers, epoxy sealers, and urethane sealers. It's important to choose the type of sealer that best enhances, protects, and provides the easiest maintenance for your project needs. Acrylic sealers also come in water based or solvent based. It's important to choose the base that provides the protection your concrete needs as well. Acid stained concrete is a wonderful process that beautifies any concrete project.