In the past, concrete was used merely as a base material because it dried to a grey-brown color that is not necessarily aesthetic. That is not the case anymore, thanks to concrete staining. As a premier decorative concrete company, Denver Concrete Artisans has been using concrete stains in enhancing plain concrete surfaces for over 20 years. Every result was impressive so it just follows that every customer was more than satisfied.
What is Concrete Staining?
Concrete Staining is one method of transforming plain concrete into something more decorative. Paint can add color too but it didn’t look as stunning and it didn’t last very long.
The discovery of stains and the fact that it comes in a wide range of colors made contractors and customers excited. Concrete stains come in two types: acid and water based. Let’s get to know more about them:
Acid Stain – This type of concrete stain Denver is a reactive type. This means it triggers a chemical reaction once the metallic salts it contains comes in contact with the hydrated lime on the concrete surface. The effect is quite dramatic, causing shades of color and patterns to appear. Acid stains penetrate deep into the concrete floor slab so it won’t peel or fade. The acid stain dried into a translucent color that varies in intensity and pattern. No two acid-stained concrete floors are alike.
Water-based Stain – This non-reactive stain dries in the exact same color it was before application. Because it does not contain any metallic salt, the colors are more consistent. This comes in a wider range of colors, each one drying to an opaque finish. This type of stain is ideal for projects that call for specific designs, patterns, graphic images, and the like. This is great for those who love subtle water-color concrete floors Denver.
Comparing Colored Concrete Options
There are many different ways to acquire colored decorative concrete. Concrete stains, however, provide the most benefits for both residential and commercial concrete floors Denver. Here’s how stained concrete fares compared to other coloring options:
Color Options – Acid stains come in earth and blue-green tones while water-based ones come in almost a full spectrum of colors. Concrete dye, integral color, and dry-shake color hardeners come in similar colors.
UV Resistance – Concrete stains can be used on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. Only a few brands of concrete dyes can be used outdoors. Most are sensitive to UV rays.
New & Old Concrete Use – Concrete stains can be used on both old and newly poured concrete. The only difference is that new concrete must cure for 28 days before the stain can be applied. Integral color and dry-shake color hardeners can only be used on new concrete surfaces.
Versatility – Concrete stains can be used as an add-on for decorative concrete overlays or coatings. Integral color can only be used on a new concrete slab.
Stained Concrete Cost
Staining concrete is more economical compared to other flooring materials like tile and wood. It maximizes the use of concrete without compromising its aesthetic appeal. The cost of staining concrete may vary based on the size of the concrete space being stained, the number of colors a client wishes to use, the type of stain being used, as well as any customization a client may request for. Here is a brief breakdown of concrete staining costs:
Basic Stain – This includes zero to minimal floor preparation, one stain color, and a coat of concrete sealer.
Intermediate Stain – This includes minimal surface preparation, one stain color, and a final coat of concrete sealer.
Upgraded Stain – Aside from surface preparation and sealing, this also includes complex patterns and multiple colors.
High-end Stain – In addition to slab preparation and sealing, this also includes hand-applied stains and custom stencil work.
Our staff can give you a thorough concrete surface assessment and an accurate quote, free of charge.
Concrete Stain Application Process: Water Based or Acid Stained
In applying a concrete stain, our team of installers makes sure that each one is wearing the appropriate gear using the right tools. Here is a brief look at how the staining process goes:
Step 1: Prepare the surface of the concrete space that needs staining. This may involve some minor repairs and cleaning. For floors that have an existing sealer or coating, grinding the surface can help make the new stain adhere properly.
Step 2: The stain is applied onto the concrete surface using a brush, mop, or spray gun. Make sure that surrounding areas are masked prior to spraying.
Step 3: If the color seems dull after the first coat, you may add another layer of the same color. You may also use a different color if you want a more interesting shade.
Step 4: Once the stain has dried, rinse the surface until runoff is clear. For acid stains, it is important to dispose of the rinse water properly as it may contain some acidic residue.
Step 5: A concrete sealer needs to be applied to protect the concrete floor from damage, lengthen the lifespan of the stain, and to give the concrete surface a luxurious shine.
REQUEST A QUOTE
Breath new life to your concrete spaces. Call (720) 545-1766 for expert concrete staining.
When it comes to enhancing the exterior and interior floors in Denver, nothing does concrete staining in Denver better than our decorative concrete team. Denver Concrete Artisans has years of experience in the industry, uses only the highest quality products, pays close attention to detail, and takes pride in our work. In addition, all of our work comes with a warranty.
Looking for concrete patio ideas? Have a stained concrete project in mind? We are just a call and an email away. We would love to hear about it and provide you with a free in-home consultation and price quote.
