Staining concrete is one of the most popular applications for transforming concrete slabs. Homeowners, designers and builders are drawn to stained concrete because of the unique effect that can be achieved by combining colors and application techniques on cement flooring and other decorative concrete projects. The results are limited only by the creativity of those involved in the process. Concrete's porous qualities and neutral tone, make it the perfect blank canvas for topically applied color. Using acid-based chemical stains, you can achieve rich, earth-toned color schemes resembling natural stone, marble, wood, or even leather, giving a completely custom look to cement floors, driveways, patios, walkways, pool decks, fireplace surrounds and more. Acid stains can be applied to old or new concrete, plain or colored. Despite the term “acid,” acid is not the ingredient that colors the concrete. Metallic salts in an acidic, water-based solution react chemically with the lime in hardened concrete. Once the stain reacts, it becomes a permanent part of the concrete and won't fade, chip off, or peel away. Like stains for wood, acid-based stains are translucent and the color they produce will vary depending on the color and condition of the substrate they are applied to. Each concrete slab will accept the stain in varying degrees of intensity, creating natural color variations that bring character and distinction to each project. Each acid stain manufacturer carries a unique line of colors, though you will find them in a limited array of subtle earth tones, such as tans, browns, terra cottas, and soft blue-greens. You can expand your color palette by utilizing water- and solvent-based concrete dyes or water-based penetrating stains to produce pastel shades to vivid reds and blues.
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Acid Based Stains
The following sample colors are representative of a typical acid stain color chart. Each manufacturers color will vary slightly, but the core group of colors is fairly standard. The colors below represent each acid stain color applied to a typical gray concrete mix. The matrix of colors widens, when these acid stained colors are applied to concrete that has been colored with an integral color or dye.
Water Based Stains
The following Butterfield Color sample colors are representative of a typical water based stain color chart. Each manufacturers color will vary slightly, but the core group of colors is fairly standard. The colors below represent each water based stain color applied to a typical gray concrete mix. The matrix of colors widens, when these water based stained colors are applied to concrete that has been colored with an integral color or dye.
