There are many different types of flooring options for a commercial space. However, the suitable one for you depends on your needs and aesthetic preferences. One great option that’s been many people’s favorite is stained concrete floors. That’s because they come in different colors, so you can easily find something that matches your aesthetics. But, before settling on stained concrete stains, there are things you should know about them first to help you make an informed choice. Learn from this guide whether stained floors are suitable for you.
What’s a Stain?
Many people think that a stain and paint are similar things. But when it comes to concrete floors, these two are different. During the painting of a concrete floor, painters add color to the surface only. But if they only paint one layer, it’s easy for the floor to chip or discolor. When this happens, it creates concrete pores, which absorb a stain. This creates a custom concrete floor coating with a fade-resistant color, meaning that the color will be permanent.
What Are the Different Types of Stains?
The main advantage of stained concrete floors is that they offer various color options to choose from. With the different color coatings, you can find something that you like.
Stains for concrete floors are of two types;
These give you a broader and bold color option. This stain type allows individuals to mix colors. Therefore, you can play with colors as much as you want to.
Concrete is colored with pigments with water-based stains. The main ingredients are water, binder, and pigments. Water is the carrier that allows the stain materials to spread out on the floor. Then the pigments will give it color and dimension. And the binder, usually an acrylic polymer, will hold all the materials in place.
If you want to make your floors beautiful but keep things subtle, consider this stain type. Although their color options are limited compared to water-based ones, they have rich earthy tones like browns, soft blue-greens, and tans. If these colors appeal to you, opt for these stains.
Note that they are produced chemically, unlike their counterpart. The process involves three main ingredients; water, hydrochloric acid, and metallic salts that dissolve in water. When applied to the concrete, they deeply penetrate inside, causing a chemical reaction with the present hydrated lime. Once it reacts with the three main components, it creates a permanent color that doesn’t peel or chip.
How Much Does a Custom Concrete Stain Cost?
When choosing a redo floor, you must think about the cost. It’s more affordable to stain an existing or a new concrete floor to boost its look.
Well, the exact amount you pay on each project varies, depending on several factors. For instance, if your space is large, you’ll pay more than someone with a small space. One application can range from $2-$4/square foot. You can also add layers for a more beautiful look, but this will increase the price up to $15 per square foot.
How to Acid Stain Concrete Floors
Well, staining concrete is a tricky task that should be left to the professional. However, if you want to conduct it as a DIY task, here is how to acid stain concrete.
First, test the stained sample to determine the coats you’ll need. Then, pour it into an airless sprayer, preferably, a plastic handheld one. Start spraying it evenly on your floors. And have someone else follow behind with a broom to work it into the floor. Give time for the first coat to dry as per the instructions on the can. Then, get rid of brushstrokes using a second coat.
So that’s how to apply acid stain to a concrete floor. But, make sure that you are wearing a respirator and protective eyewear, footwear, and clothing.
If you are looking for a professional to stain your new or existing floors in Cary, DC, Durham Concrete Company is here for you. We will help you explore different color options to find something that you like. Get in touch with us today via (919) 205-8892 to schedule an appointment.