How Do Concrete Stains Work?

That depends in large part on the type of stain you're using. Generally, there are two categories of concrete stains--reactive and nonreactive--according to Chris Sullivan, national sales manager for QC Construction Products. In the first category are chemical stains--water-based acidic solutions containing metallic salts that react with the concrete's lime content. Once the chemical reaction takes place, the stain forms a permanent bond with the concrete and won't chip off or peel away.

In the nonreactive category are water-based acrylic stains that don't rely on a chemical reaction to impart color. Instead, they are formulated to penetrate the concrete surface and deposit their pigment particles in the open pores. Sullivan says that nonreactive stains have grown in popularity over the past few years because they come in a much broader palette of colors than acid stains and are easier to apply. The downside: They won't produce the same variegated, translucent color tones characteristic of acid stains. The color effects tend to be more opaque and more uniform.

To learn more, read What Is a True Concrete Stain? and The Concrete Network's Shop Smart Guide to Buying Concrete Stains and Dyes.

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