Pros and Cons of Staining Concrete





It really doesn't surprise me. The move to take decorative concrete outdoors is a natural progression of people spending more hours, well, outdoors. Our “hydration society” is into exercise, meditation, prayer and just outright healthy outdoor living that draws us to private outside sanctuaries.

Of all several types of decorative concrete, exterior staining is the absolute most affordable. In addition, it requires minimal manpower. But this really is an article on how your organization can make sure you pick the proper exterior staining product to produce the outdoor paradise your clients value the most. As you might have noticed, there are many new options available, and most deserve their place in this dynamic market.

There's certainly been some confusion, with myself included, about what product is most effective by which application. This is a great time to simplify the staining/coloring process, not merely for you personally however for your clients as well. Consider this — if the staining process is confusing for us, the installers, can you imagine what it is similar to for the conclusion user? The thing the finish user knows is that she wants a nice-looking project colored to her taste. This really is best achieved when left in the hands of professionals. That is you, by the way.

Let's take a look at what's available for exterior staining and the good qualities and cons of each. In the end is said, you will have to determine what is best for you and your business.



Few will argue the fact all of it started with acid stains. Acid stains really are a reactive coloring process that penetrates into the porous concrete surface. This is the most permanent of most coloring options but is generally restricted to eight colors. Now, these colors can be blended, diluted, streaked and tweaked to generate many coloring options. The acid stains will chemically react differently to each bit of concrete by proof final color. In other words, you can't guarantee the actual color. staining If you are the kind that loves a challenge, then acid staining is for you.


Acid Stain

Few will argue the truth that everything started with acid stains. Acid stains are a reactive coloring procedure that penetrates to the porous concrete surface. This really is the absolute most permanent of all coloring options but is normally restricted to eight colors. Now, these colors can be blended, diluted, streaked and tweaked to create many coloring options. The acid stains will chemically react differently to each little bit of concrete by proof of final color. In other words, you can't guarantee the actual color. If you're the kind that loves a challenge, then acid staining is for you.



Pros:
Very durable connection with, and penetration into, the concrete canvas.
Inexpensive to purchase.
Same stain can be used indoors and out.
Gives a translucent appearance to the concrete surface, unlike painted or topical stains.
Extremely timeless-looking and old-world.

Cons:
Requires ongoing maintenance through resealing.
Limited colors, with some turning staining black from exposure to moisture.
Unpredictable when it comes to exact color.
Must be neutralized before sealing.
Stain is a toxic material that requires care when handling.
Looks different in exterior and interior projects.
Wet edge must be kept during installation, and some thicker stains may show brush marks.


Waterbased stains
These stains are nonreactive and will simply penetrate into the top when pores of the concrete are open. Strong prep work cleaning the concrete is a must. This stain type will offer many more colors to pick from and may be used inside or out. Water-based stains are growing in popularity but are not as durable in exterior applications as old-fashioned acid stain. I suppose you are able to say this is the new and improved version of old-fashioned acid stain. Select a good sealer to lock in stain and make sure to remind your clients of the importance of resealing.
Pros:
Very user-friendly. Nontoxic.
Many more color options than acid stains.
Will not blacken like acid stain.
Seems to be easier to build up or add color to color than with some other stain forms.
Practically endless color effects.
Less residue to clean up between staining and sealing.

Cons:
Not as durable in exterior applications as acid stain.
Will show the same variegated or translucent coloring as acid stain, although not as deep.
Tends to be more expensive.
Can look a little painted.
Sealer maintenance is a must.

Here is what most of the above have in keeping: Regardless of your stain or coloring choice, none will cover cracks or chips. Some existing stains can still be visible, although in an alternative final color. Prestained concrete must be unsealed, and I will suggest testing the top with a small amount of water to be sure the concrete is porous. Make sure to pressure-wash the surface in order that pores are open and stain-ready. It's usually best to let the outer lining dry overnight before staining. The sealer used to lock in the colour or stain will not like water, so make sure you control sprinklers and potted plants.


Concrete also needs to have been left to remedy for a minimum of 30 days before staining.


One last note about staining exterior work: I rarely used acid stains, solely due to their unpredictability. I also sense most states will institute special disposal requirements in the near future.


In any case, there's without doubt the surface stain and color market keeps growing and will continue to grow for a few time. Best of luck and let me understand how it goes.



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