Garage Floor Coatings
Concrete Staining | Commercial And Residential
Serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Charlotte, Greensboro, Fayetteville, Winston-Salem, Wilmington, and more.
Concrete staining is a way for contractors and homeowners to save money while still achieving a decorative look for their floor. These floors are sealed and provide durability and are easily cleaned. Think of it as getting seventy-five percent of the longevity of other resinous flooring systems at half the cost.
Concrete Staining Materials
Those Floor Guys use water-based stain as opposed to acid stain. The reason for this is to avoid harmful chemicals. Improper cleaning of acid from the concrete surface can cause sealants to not cure. Once the staining pigments are sealed, the longevity of the floor is the same regardless of the type of stain used.
Different sealants can be applied depending on the use of the area. Areas exposed to foot traffic can receive a water-based sealant that provides a natural, matte finish that can still be easily cleaned. Surfaces that are prone to more abuse or vehicle traffic can be sealed with an acrylic sealant. This provides a slightly thicker and more durable finish.
Concrete Staining Application
Surface preparation is typically an easy process. Only in instances where the slab has a previous coating or is dense with dirt and grime, does the concrete get diamond ground. When the slab is in reasonably fair condition, it is sufficient to break up surface debris with a push broom and vacuum the concrete.
Walls, posts, and trim are masked with tape and plastic to prevent accidental staining. The concrete staining pigments are applied with a pressurized sprayer. There is no need for wiping or mopping as long as the pigments have been evenly distributed across the floor. The water will quickly wick into the concrete and leave the pigment embedded into the pores of the concrete.
The sealant is applied by a tray and paint roller. Typically, the concrete will receive two coats of sealant but sometimes a single, thick coat of acrylic is sufficient.
Where Is Concrete Staining Applicable?
Concrete staining can be used anywhere concrete slabs exist. Some of the most beautiful applications have been in basements and wine cellars. However, staining is commonly used on porches, patios, driveways, sidewalks, lobbies, and showrooms.