Top designers are using stained concrete floors in everything from warehouses to penthouses. Stained concrete floors offer a beautiful, functional and cost effective flooring option for nearly any space, whether it is residential or commercial floors. These floors are easy to clean and sanitize, reduce allergens, can be used inside or out, and are extremely durable.
Whether you are searching for ways to rejuvenate an old concrete floor or you are having a new floor poured, staining a concrete surface will give it a practical finish and a luxurious look. Stained concrete is a terrific option, but if you are not familiar with this type flooring, you may wonder how you go about deciding which stain to use. A bit of basic information will make you feel more confident when you choose a concrete stain.
Types of Concrete Stains
There are two main categories of concrete stains: acid stains and acrylic stains.
Acid stains work by penetrating the surface of the concrete, creating a chemical reaction with the free lime in the material. The results are a natural, nearly translucent, permanent stain. Each concrete surface reacts differently to the acid, so the finish is mottled and variegated with subtle hues and effects. Talented concrete contractors can create a finish that looks like natural stone, marble, a pattern of leaves or other custom designs, all in warm , earth tone shades.
Acrylic concrete stains are more opaque and work more like water-based latex paints. The pigments of the acrylic stain soaks into the pores of the concrete. The finish is a more consistent, semi-translucent color. Acrylic stains are available in a wider variety of colors than are acid stains. Rather than being limited to earth tones, acrylic concrete stains are available in a broad spectrum of rich colors, even metallic tints.
Which Concrete Stain is Right for Your Floor?
When you choose the stain for your concrete floor, you need to consider both the effect you want to create and the concrete surface you are creating it on. Oftentimes you can use either type stain with equal success, but in some circumstances one will work better than the other.
Acid stains will make any imperfections in the concrete more obvious. If you want that effect, that may be the route you want to go. If, however, the concrete is more than 15-20 years old, you may be better off with an acrylic stain. If the lime has leeched out of the concrete, an acid stain will not work effectively on the surface.
Acrylic stains, on the other hand, are a better choice for hiding patches or imperfections in the concrete. If you have a surface that is perfectly smooth, though, there may not be many pores for an acrylic stain to seep into so an acid stain may be a better option.
Whichever type of concrete stain you choose to use, you will be amazed at how beautiful and chic a concrete floor can be.
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Topics: Flooring