WHAT IS ACID STAINING

Source:www.stonediamondtool.com Date:2019/7/23 Read:320

Most acid stains are created with a combination of water, hydrochloric acid, and acid-soluble metallic salts. When this mixture penetrates a concrete surface and reacts chemically with the hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) in the concrete, the acid in the stain will lightly etch the surface, allowing the metallic salts to penetrate. This process produces a unique translucent effect that you can’t get from painting.

What will the finished results look like?
Depending on the color and application techniques used, acid staining can give your concrete the look of marble, leather, stone, or even stained wood. The color choices for acid staining are generally limited to a basic color palette of earthy tones. By mixing two or more stain colors, or applying one color over another, a wide variety of colors and effects can be produced. Even when treated with the same staining product in the same shade, no two areas of concrete will look alike due to factors such as the composition and age of the concrete and surface porosity. Concrete stains enhance rather than disguise the surface. They will not hide the concrete’s color, texture cracks, or blemishes, so a damaged piece of concrete is not an ideal choice for applying a concrete stain. An acid stain should also not be applied to any surfaces that would inhibit stain penetration, such as areas coated with dirt, grease, glue, or sealers, since they need to soak into the concrete to achieve full color saturation. When considering an acid stain for an area of concrete, also keep in mind that new concrete produces more intense effects than older concrete.

Is acid staining permanent?
Acid stains penetrate directly into concrete surfaces, and when applied to properly prepared concrete, become a permanent part of the concrete that won't fade, chip, or peel. Although the stain is permanent, it only penetrates the top layer of the concrete and will eventually wear away as the surface is worn by traffic or weather exposure.

How do I clean my acid stained concrete?
To prolong stain life, you should protect exterior stained concrete surfaces with a clear sealer. Clean your acid stained concrete by frequently dry dust mopping and occasionally wet mopping with a neutral-pH cleaner.

What is the cost of acid staining?
Depending on the complexity of the stain application, surface prep requirements, and the size of the area to be stained, costs will vary.