Concrete Stains

Is there an ugly gray concrete surface lurking around your home? Well, it is time to catch up with that outdated fellow and give him a much needed makeover. The good news for homeowners is that there are many fascinating ways to dress up concrete surfaces these days. The following articles describe some of these finishes, allowing you to choose which one will best suit your surface.

It doesn't make a whole lot of sense to apply make-up to a dirty face, and neither does applying a fresh finish to dirty concrete. So be sure to read about the proper cleaning methods in our concrete cleaning section before applying any of these techniques. Depending on the look you are hoping to achieve, there are a number of stains available.

Water-based acrylic stains are one of the most commonly used options. Many contractors enjoy its ease of application, the wide variety of colors, and the beautiful artistic designs that can be created. Acid-based stains are another option. These work by penetrating the porous surface of the concrete and reacting with the hydrated lime in the concrete. They can be used to slightly etch the surface of the concrete. If you really want to have a little fun, try mixing your own stains with some basic household ingredients. Read-on to discover what techniques you can employ around your house.