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Concrete Stain Products

Learn about concrete stains and the advantages and limitations of each type, from water-based acrylics to acid-based chemical stains, and what to consider before choosing

Find Products: Concrete Stains

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VIDEO: CONCRETE ACID STAINS & OTHER COLORING OPTIONS

See how acid stains are used to enhance concrete, and get tips on when to use acid stains versus other coloring options, such as concrete dyes, and water-based stains. Length—3:59

For many years, decorative concrete contractors have been using acid-based chemical concrete stains to achieve rich, earth-toned color schemes resembling natural stone, marble, wood, or even leather. But today, contractors are no longer limited to earthy shades. Newer products on the market—such as water- and solvent-based dyes—are greatly expanding the artist's palette with colors ranging from soft pastels to vivid reds, oranges, yellows, and purples. And in some cases, these newer stain products are easier and safer to apply.

Concrete stains are a mixture of water, hydrochloric acid, and acid-soluble metallic salts. Because of concrete's porous qualities, they penetrate and react chemically in the concrete. Concrete stains become a permanent part of the concrete. They're known for their durability and long-lasting color because concrete stains will not fade, chip, or peel off.

Concrete stains are also known for their translucent color. Because of the various conditions of concrete surfaces, concrete stains react differently creating one-of-a-kind color and patterning.

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