| |
Acid
Stain
 |
Water-Based Stain |
Concrete
Dye
 |
Integral
Color
 |
Dry-Shake Color Hardener
 |
Color options available
(See these sample color charts) |
Limited to earth tones and soft blue-greens |
Nearly unlimited; different colors can be mixed to create custom hues |
Nearly unlimited; colors can be mixed or diluted |
Limited to earth tones and pastel shades |
Comes in a wider array of hues than integral color, but tones are more muted than dyes or water-based stains |
| Can be used indoors and outdoors |
Yes |
Yes |
Check with the manufacturer. Not all dyes are UV-resistant. |
Yes |
Yes |
| Can be applied to new or existing concrete |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
New concrete only |
New concrete only |
| Can be applied to cement-based overlays |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
| Ease of application and cleanup |
Poor
After application, surface must be scrubbed to remove stain residue and to neutralize the acid. |
Good
No neutralization or rinsing is required; application tools can be cleaned with soap and water. |
Good
No need to clean the slab after application; dye particles are very fine and absorbed into the surface. |
N/A |
Poor
Must be hand broadcast, and can be labor-intensive and messy to work with. |
| Application tool requirements |
A low-pressure sprayer, or brushes or sponges for detail work. All tools must be acid-resistant, with no metal components. |
A low-pressure sprayer, roller, brush or sponge |
A low-pressure sprayer, roller, brush or sponge |
N/A |
A bull float, to work the hardener into the surface |
| Performance |
Excellent
Because they penetrate the concrete surface, most acid- and water-based stains have excellent UV stability and wear resistance. |
Good
Some dyes are not recommended for exterior use because they can fade when exposed to direct sunlight. |
Excellent
The color goes through the entire slab and will not wear away. |
Excellent
Improves the strength and density of the concrete surface; also UV resistant. |
| Are safety precautions required? |
Yes
May contain corrosive components that can cause eye, skin, and lung irritation. Wear impervious gloves and boots, eye protection, and a facemask to prevent inhalation. |
No
Water-based stains typically have a low VOC content and are safe to apply without concern for odors or toxic fumes. |
Yes, if solvent-based
Solvent-based dyes are flammable and can produce hazardous vapors. For projects in occupied spaces or where ventilation is poor, use a water-based dye. |
No |
Yes
Airborne powder can be harmful to breathe. Wear a respirator or facemask when working with these products. |
