Paint on concrete typically has a lifespan of 3 to 5 years, depending on where the concrete’s painted. This is a common option that people choose, but stain can be much more effective.
For anyone looking to create an architectural finish for any vertical area of concrete, stain is the best option. Staining creates a high-quality result that is beautiful and durable.
If anyone wants to create any kind of design, staining is going to give the best results on concrete. Keep reading to find out how to use concrete stain for the best applications.
Why Stain Concrete?
Many people may choose to stain concrete to give it a more appealing look. For the most part, leaving concrete a standard gray can be seen as dull or lifeless.
Many commercial buildings have concrete stained with the colors of the company. Creating a unique and eye-catching design to brighten up the concrete.
While homeowners may want staining done if they have a specific design in mind. They have endless options when it comes to having a color or colors stained on any area of concrete.
Applying concrete stains is a great way to add architectural appeal to the area. There are also an endless amount of design and color options that are available.
Concrete Stain Options
Anyone wondering how to use concrete stain might also find the staining options interesting. There are a variety of colors to choose from, and they can be mixed to create a unique look.
The concrete staining process allows people to get as creative as they like. Even having options for different finishes like metallic finishes or faux finishes.
You can use stain to create ranges of color, semi-transparent colors, and any other color types you may be looking for. It is the best way to add life to concrete and give it some character.
Some people choose to stain most of their buildings or only small sections. Stain can add dimension and highlight unusual architectural designs.
Metallic finishes can even replicate different metals. Creating a gold, steel, copper, or silver appearance on the concrete surface.
Concrete stain can also be layered to create intense colors or a unique color palette. Acid stains and water stains are two different options to choose from, though acid stains create more earthy tones.
Why Is Stain Better Than Paint?
Those who want to paint concrete may be wondering why staining is so much better.
Paint doesn’t have a long lifespan on concrete and can start to wear away, making the concrete look old and more worn out than it really should.
Staining a concrete surface looks better for a longer amount of time. As the stain is much less likely to end up damaged or wear away as it binds with the substrate on a deeper level and doesn’t form a film.
This allows for beautiful staining designs that will last a very long time. So it is a much more worthwhile investment for long-term results.
Applications of Concrete Stain
Anyone who wants their concrete stained should hire a professional to do this job. This work includes attention to detail, concrete staining tools, and past experience.
The results just won’t be as good if a professional isn’t the one doing them. Especially if the staining design is more intricate and complicated to pull off.
Certain staining projects also require specific materials and techniques. Keep reading to find out more about the concrete staining process that is important.
Prepare the Surface
Concrete staining preparation is very important before the stain is applied. Stain requires a clean surface, so the concrete surface needs to be thoroughly washed.
Sandblasting is a popular method of preparing the surface of concrete, though you should consult with professionals and experts to make sure it is done correctly.
Apply the Stain
Applying concrete stains is detailed work, and you will need to tape off the area. Professionals use sprayers as well as brushes, depending on the design they are making.
If a sprayer is being used, more areas will have to be taped off to prevent the stain from spreading too far. How difficult this process is will depend on how detailed the design is.
Staining should be allowed to dry and cure completely, a process that usually takes 24 hours. If necessary, more staining coats can be added to create color intensity.
Add a Sealant
Once the stain has completely dried and cured, a sealant may need to be added.
Stain is already durable as it is able to soak into the concrete surface. But a sealant will add just another layer of protection for the future.
Different sealants will be used, according to whether the surface is inside or outdoors. It will also depend on the level of gloss that is desired as some are shinier.
A professional will be able to help find just the right sealant for anyone’s project.
How to Use Concrete Stain for the Best Results
If anyone is wondering how to use concrete stain, we hope this has given you a good starting point for your research. Staining is a much better option than painting concrete, providing a durable finish.
This is a project that is best left to the professionals for those wanting the best results. Across this site, you will find great examples of what can be created with concrete stain.
Want to have an area of concrete on your property stained with a unique design? Contact us today at Nawkaw for more information on professional concrete staining.