If you are looking to spruce up your ordinary concrete floor, you ought to consider acid staining. Acid staining takes a previously boring and plain looking concretely floor or surface and transforms it into a vibrant, personality-filled space. It is a budget-friendly alternative to different types and styles of flooring and is extremely durable (it’s still concrete!). To learn more about the acid staining process and why people everywhere are choosing this, keep reading.
Why Choose Acid Staining?
Dressing up your concrete floors and giving them a more finished look is just a couple of reasons why people choose acid staining. It can make concrete look similar to marble or another type of high-end stone for a fraction of the cost. Acid staining gives your space a non-uniform look making it look more natural like stone. There are a variety of colors to choose from, making it totally customizable for your personal style and esthetic. Hard Rock Concrete Coatings offers more than 40 shades! Common color selections are earthy tones, browns, greens, and reds, but mixing colors gives even more variety.
How Acid Staining Works
Acid staining is not like paint, which covers the surface of the concrete. Because it is made of water, acid, and inorganic salts, it actually seeps into the concrete’s pores. The chemical reaction of the acid is what produces the color. Once the desired effect has been achieved, a sealant or wax will be applied, which gives it the glossy, smooth texture.
How It’s Done
Before you can acid stain your concrete, the surface needs to be prepared. This includes cleaning, patching and repairing, and removing dirt, debris, paint, grease, oil, etc. from the surface. It also needs time to thoroughly dry. Prep may include resurfacing if a sealant has previously been applied. Once prepped, a test patch will be applied to verify what the color will look like. Remember that, between mixtures and slabs, the colors will vary and will yield different results.
Can I Acid Stain My Concrete?
If your concrete is in good condition and is clean, regardless of the concrete’s age, an acid stain can be applied. Any concrete surface can be stained — even stamped concrete. If your concrete slab is damaged, dirty, painted, or sealed, the acid mixture will not be able to seep into the concrete. If you have new concrete, keep in mind it must be completely dry and have cured for three or more weeks prior to acid staining.
Is Acid Staining a DIY Job?
You can definitely do this on your own. There are many acid staining products, tools, and supplies available at your local hardware store and tutorials online. However, purchasing these supplies and products is certainly an investment. Your time and money may be better spent hiring a professional to get the job done for you.
If you are interested in acid staining your concrete, contact Hard Rock Concrete Coatings today. We offer an array of vibrant colors and years of experience. Contact us now to request your free consultation.
