Concrete Acid Stains
Most acid stains are a mixture of water, hydrochloric acid, and acid-soluble metallic salts. They work by reacting chemically with the hydrated lime in the stain producing color in the concrete.
When acid stain is applied to a concrete surface it creates a mottled, uneven, translucent color. This coloring process gives the surface a look similar to weathered stone, slate or marble. Since each concrete slab has a slightly different chemical combination colors in concrete can vary. Acid Staining unlike paint is not a coating. Therefore, the color becomes a permanent part of the surface and will not chip, flake or peel. Since acid stain is translucent cracks and other imperfections in the slab give a weathered look of character.
Stain manufacturers differ on when to apply stain. Some say that a new slab must cure for 28 days before work is started. Others suggest 14 days. Installers sometimes prefer to do their work as soon as possible after the concrete is placed.
When choosing how to apply stain, keep the following things in mind:
*Colors are more intense if stain is applied soon after concrete is placed. Stain diluted with water and applied immediately can often achieve the same results as full-strength stains applied later.
*Water drives the chemical-stain reaction. To achieve color consistency, make sure the moisture content of the concrete is roughly the same for every placement colored. If one concrete placement is stained 2 days after its placed, then other placements should be stained when they are 2 days old for color consistency.
*Staining, sealing, and covering finished work before other construction trades return to the area saves on cleanup, achieves a better-looking installation, and makes damage repair during the rest of construction easier to handle.
*More Concrete Staining Issues
There are many ways to apply stain, with each method providing a different final appearance.
Manufacturer provided data:
Stain Distributors
- Scofield
- Kemiko
- Triple S
- Concrete Camo
User provided data:
Product Specific
- Scofield
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