Pros and Cons of Staining Concrete





It really doesn't surprise me. The proceed to take decorative concrete outdoors is a natural progression of individuals spending more time, well, outdoors. Our “hydration society” is into exercise, meditation, prayer and just outright healthy outdoor living that draws us to private outside sanctuaries.

Of all of the various kinds of decorative concrete, exterior staining is the absolute most affordable. In addition, it requires minimal manpower. But this is an article on how your business can make sure you pick the proper exterior staining product to produce the outdoor paradise your clients value the most. As you might have noticed, there are lots of new options available, and most deserve their place in this dynamic market.

There's certainly been some confusion, with myself included, about what product is most effective by which application. This is a superb time to simplify the staining/coloring process, not only for you personally but also for your clients as well. Consider this — if the staining process is confusing for all of us, the installers, are you able to imagine what it is like for the end user? The thing the conclusion user knows is that she wants a nice-looking project colored to her taste. This really is best achieved when left in the hands of professionals. That is you, by the way.

Let's take a look at what's designed for exterior staining and the good qualities and cons of each. All things considered is said, you will have to determine what is best for you and your staining floors business.



Few will argue the fact that all of it started with acid stains. Acid stains certainly are a reactive coloring process that penetrates into the porous concrete surface. This is probably the most permanent of coloring options but is usually limited to eight colors. Now, these colors can be blended, diluted, streaked and tweaked to generate many coloring options. The acid stains will chemically react differently to each little bit of concrete by proof of final color. In other words, you can't guarantee the actual color. If you should be the kind that loves challenging, then acid staining is for you.


Acid Stain

Few will argue the fact that it all started with acid stains. Acid stains certainly are a reactive coloring procedure that penetrates in to the porous concrete surface. This is the most permanent of all coloring options but is usually limited by eight colors. Now, these colors could be blended, diluted, streaked and tweaked to create many coloring options. The acid stains will chemically react differently to each piece of concrete by proof final color. Quite simply, you can't guarantee the exact color. If you are the sort that loves challenging, then acid staining is for you.



Pros:
Very durable connection with, and penetration into, the concrete canvas.
Inexpensive to purchase.
Same stain can be used indoors and out.
Gives a translucent appearance to the concrete surface, unlike painted or topical stains.
Extremely timeless-looking and old-world.

Cons:
Requires ongoing maintenance through resealing.
Limited colors, with some turning black from exposure to moisture.
Unpredictable when it comes to exact color.
Must be neutralized before sealing.
Stain is a toxic material that requires care when handling.
Looks different in exterior and interior projects.
Wet edge must be kept during installation, and some thicker stains may show brush marks.


Waterbased stains
These stains are nonreactive and will only penetrate into the surface when pores of the concrete are open. Strong prep work cleaning the concrete is really a must. This stain type will offer a lot more colors to choose from and can be utilized inside or out. Water-based stains are growing in popularity but aren't as durable in exterior applications as old-fashioned acid stain. I guess you are able to say this is actually the new and improved version of old-fashioned acid stain. Pick a good sealer to lock in stain and make sure you remind your clients of the significance of resealing.
Pros:
Very user-friendly. Nontoxic.
Many more color options than acid stains.
Will not blacken concrete like acid stain.
Seems to be easier to build up or add color to color than with some other stain forms.
Practically endless color effects.
Less residue to clean up between staining and sealing.

Cons:
Not as durable in exterior applications as acid stain.
Will show the same variegated or translucent coloring as acid stain, although not as deep.
Tends to be more expensive.
Can look a little painted.
Sealer maintenance is a must.

Some tips about what most of the above have in keeping: Regardless of your stain or coloring choice, none will cover cracks or chips. Some existing stains can still be visible, although in an alternative final color. Prestained concrete must be unsealed, and I will suggest testing the top with a small amount of water to ensure the concrete is porous. Make sure to pressure-wash the surface in order that pores are open and stain-ready. It is usually far better let the top dry overnight before staining. The sealer used to lock in the color or stain won't like water, so make sure to control sprinklers and potted plants.


Concrete should also have already been left to cure for a minimum of 30 days before staining.


One last note about staining exterior work: I rarely used acid stains, solely because of their unpredictability. I also sense most states will institute special disposal requirements in the near future.


Whatever the case, there is no doubt the outside stain and color market is growing and will continue to cultivate for many time. Good luck and i'd like to know how it goes.



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