A stained or stamped concrete floor generally adds to your home's value on resale.
How long does concrete staining last?
Few materials have the longevity of concrete. And because stains permeate the concrete to infuse it with permanent color, a stained concrete floor or pavement should last a lifetime when properly maintained (see How to Protect and Maintain Stained Concrete .
Is staining concrete cheap?
Is Stained Concrete Expensive? Starting at just $2 per square foot, a stained concrete floor is less expensive than tile, wood, or natural stone flooring. However, as you add customization, the price rises and becomes comparable to more expensive flooring like slate or marble.
Can you permanently stain concrete?
If you want to stain old concrete, using a true acid stain is always the best option. Avoid "acrylic stains" as these are disguised paint and will also peel with time. Concrete Acid Stains are the only true stains with permanent results.
Is it better to stain or paint concrete?
When properly applied, the paint will last a long time without chipping or peeling and can also help hide imperfections or patch work on top of the concrete. In comparison, acid stain actually permeates the pores of the concrete and interacts with different components of the concrete.
How long does a stained concrete driveway last?
Provided it's installed correctly and adequately maintained, stamped concrete will last just as long as non-stamped, or standard, concrete—about 25 years. That's because the processes of installing stamped concrete and standard concrete are mostly the same.
Can you stain existing exterior concrete?
CAN YOU STAIN AN EXISTING CONCRETE PATIO? Stains are effective in revitalizing dull, lackluster surfaces with minimal to no damage. An existing concrete slab with major cracks or spalling is usually not a good candidate for staining because any patchwork is likely to show right through the stain.
Can you stain over already stained concrete?
Since the color comes from a chemical reaction, there is no easy way to change the color of acid stained concrete; you can add another layer of concrete on top and stain this a completely new color, or you can add to the existing stain to deepen it and possibly change the hue slightly.
Can you stain concrete after it has cured?
Allow new concrete to cure for at least a month before applying stain. Use a plastic airless sprayer for acid staining.
What acid will stain concrete?
Most acid stains are a mixture of water, hydrochloric acid, and acid-soluble metallic salts. They work by penetrating the surface and reacting chemically with the hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) in the concrete. The acid in the stain lightly etches the surface, allowing the metallic salts to penetrate more easily.
What can I use to stain concrete?
Use an acid-resistant airless paint sprayer to neatly and evenly apply the stain on the concrete slab. You may also use a paint roller or handheld brush for stain application in smaller areas and tight corners on the slab. Work in sections as needed.