Concrete staining is a great way to enhance the look of both indoor and outdoor surfaces. Whether you’re working on a residential patio, a commercial showroom, or a pool deck, stains can add color, depth, and character to concrete.

Choosing the Right Stain for Your Project

There are different types of concrete stains available, each offering unique characteristics:

• Acid-Based Stains: These stains react chemically with the concrete, creating rich, variegated tones that mimic natural stone. They are long-lasting and work best for earth-toned colors.
• Water-Based Stains: These stains provide a broader color range, including vibrant hues. They don’t react chemically but instead soak into the concrete, making them ideal for more uniform coverage.
• Penetrating Dyes: These offer the brightest colors and fast application.
• Tinted Sealers: These provide subtle color while also protecting the surface. They are a good choice for refreshing older stained concrete.

Choosing the Right Color for Your Project

Selecting the right stain color depends on several factors:

• Desired Look: Does the property owner want something bold and vibrant or more subdued and natural?
• Surroundings: Choose a color that complements the building’s exterior or interior. Warm browns and tans work well with natural stone, while grays and blues might be better for modern designs.
• Outdoor Considerations: If staining a pool deck or patio, lighter colors are preferable since they absorb less heat, keeping the surface cooler.

Here are just some of the stains and dyes Superior Decorative has to offer:

Stains & Dyes

More charts:

Click on any of the above images or links to open large, printable versions (PDF) of our color charts.

See more concrete color options.

Is Stain Expensive?

The cost of concrete stain depends on several factors:

• Type of stain
• Amount of stain needed to cover your project
• Whether you’re using a standard color or need a custom color blend

For an accurate cost estimate, give us a call, and we’ll help you choose the right product within your budget.

Does Stained Concrete Peel?

No, stained concrete does not peel because the stain penetrates the surface rather than sitting on top like paint. The color is absorbed into the concrete, making it long-lasting and resistant to flaking.

Is Stained Concrete Durable?

Yes, stained concrete is very durable. Since the color penetrates the surface, it won’t fade or chip easily. However, applying a sealer is crucial to protect the stained concrete from wear, moisture, and staining from spills. A quality sealer ensures the original color lasts longer and maintains its vibrant appearance.

How to Stain Concrete

If you’re planning to stain a concrete surface, follow these key steps:

• Read instructions thoroughly: Each stain product has specific requirements for application and drying times.

• Clean the surface: Remove dirt, grease, and any coatings that could prevent absorption.

• Prep the product: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for mixing and preparing the stain.

• Apply the stain: Use a sprayer, brush, or roller for even coverage.

• Seal the surface: Apply a concrete sealer to protect and enhance the color.

Which is Best: Stain or Polish?

Choosing between stained and polished concrete depends on the project’s needs and budget:

• Stained concrete: Takes a day or two to complete, is more budget-friendly, and offers a variety of colors and finishes.
• Polished concrete: Requires multiple grinding and polishing steps to achieve a smooth, glossy surface. It’s more labor-intensive but provides a sleek, high-end look.

If your client wants an easy-to-maintain, colorful finish, staining is a great choice. If they prefer a refined, mirror-like floor, polishing might be the better option.

Maintaining a Stained Concrete Floor

To ensure the longevity of stained concrete, follow these maintenance tips:

• Seal the surface to prevent stains, moisture damage, and color fading.
• Regularly sweep and mop with a neutral cleaner to keep dirt and grime from dulling the surface.
• Reseal every few years to maintain protection and vibrancy. The exact amount of time you wait between resealing depends on how your surface is used and its exposure to the elements.

With the right stain and proper maintenance, decorative concrete can be an attractive, long-lasting addition to any property.