Pros and Cons of Staining Concrete





It surely doesn't surprise me. The proceed to take decorative concrete outdoors is an all natural progression of people spending more time, 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 the several types of decorative concrete, exterior staining is probably the most affordable. Additionally it requires the smallest amount of manpower. But this really is articles on how your business can be sure to pick the proper exterior staining product to generate the outdoor paradise your clients value the most. As you might have noticed, there are lots of 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 superb 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 is best achieved when left in the hands of professionals. That is you, by the way.

Let's take a peek at what's readily available for exterior staining and the professionals and cons of each. After all is said, you will need to determine what's best for you personally and your business.



Few will argue the truth that it all started with acid stains. Acid stains certainly are a reactive coloring procedure that penetrates in to the porous staining floors concrete surface. This is probably the most permanent of most 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 staining the exact color. If you're the kind that loves a challenge, then acid staining is for you.


Acid Stain

Few will argue the fact that all of it started with acid stains. Acid stains certainly are a reactive coloring process that penetrates into the porous concrete surface. That is essentially the most permanent of coloring options but is usually limited by eight colors. Now, these colors could be blended, diluted, streaked and tweaked to produce many coloring options. The acid stains will chemically react differently to each piece of concrete by proof final color. Quite simply, you can't guarantee the exact color. If you are the sort that loves challenging, 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 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 only penetrate into the outer lining when pores of the concrete are open. Strong prep work cleaning the concrete is just a must. This stain type will offer many more colors to choose from and can be utilized inside or out. Water-based stains are growing in popularity but are not as durable in exterior applications as old-fashioned acid stain. I guess you are able to say this is actually the new and improved version of old-fashioned acid stain. Pick a good sealer to lock in stain and make sure you 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 is usually best to let the outer lining dry overnight before staining. The sealer used to lock in the colour or stain won't like water, so make sure to control sprinklers and potted plants.


Concrete should also have already 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 no doubt the surface stain and color market is growing and will continue to grow for a few time. Good luck and allow me to understand how it goes.



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