Are your concrete surfaces looking dull and worn-out? Do you want to refresh your concrete patio, driveway, or oil-stained garage? If the answer to one of these questions is yes, then worry not; this DIY guide on how to stain concrete floors and give them a new look while saving a lot of money.
Follow our step-by-step guide for staining concrete floors in your home.
Project Details
- Total project time: 1-2 days
- Active working time: 4-8 hours (depending on the area)
- Skill level: Intermediate
- Estimated cost: $100 – $250
Tools Required
- Stiff broom
- Shop vacuum
- Floor sander
- Caulking gun
- Drop cloth
- Paint sprayer and paint roller
- Paintbrush
- Garden hose
- Pressure washer
Materials Needed
- Concrete Stain
- Crack sealant
- Concrete sealant
- Paint stripper
- Neutralizer and degreaser
- Painter’s tape
- Mild detergent
- Liquid wax
Instructions for Staining Concrete Floor
Step 1: Cleaning and Preparing the Floor
- Start off by removing furniture and other objects from the floor. If you are working on an indoor project, remove baseboards as well.
- Protect the working area by applying the painter’s tape over the floor edges and hanging plastic sheets on the walls.
- Depending on how dirty the floor is, clean it using a stiff broom, a mop, or a pressure washer with a mild detergent to remove dust, debris, stuck-on grime, grease, or oil marks.
- Use a paint stripper to remove old coatings if the concrete is coated with old sealers or paints. Then, sand the floor vigorously.
- For stubborn oil stains on the floor, you can use a degreaser or a neutralizer.
- If the current floor has cracks, use a caulking gun and concrete crack sealant to patch them. Let it sit for at least 24 hours. Buff the patched area with a floor sander once it has cured. It will help you remove uneven patches and get a smooth finish to work on.
Step 2: Applying the Stain
- Get your stain, paint sprayer or roller brush ready. You can use one of them to apply the stain.
- If you are using a paint roller and a brush, apply the stain in even strokes across the surface. Don’t forget to get into edges, corners, and tight spaces with the brush.
- For people using a paint sprayer, the trick lies in applying the stain in broad and even rows. Make sure you slightly overlap the spray pattern at each row to ensure you get a wet edge.
- For an acid-based stain, wait until it develops the desired color, then apply a neutralizing agent to stop the chemical reaction.
- Let the stain cure for at least 24 hours or check the drying time on the stain box.
Step 3: Preserving the Stain
- Once the stain is fully dry, apply a concrete sealant to preserve the stain.
- Use liquid wax to polish the floor while following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Allow the concrete sealant to dry for at least 4 to 5 hours.
- Make sure you don’t walk over it or move furniture for at least 2 days so that everything settles down nicely.
What Are the Different Types of Concrete Stains Available?
Concrete stains primarily come in two types: acid-based and water-based. Alternatively, you can also use concrete paints. Here is a brief introduction to the three.
- Acid-Based Stains: These stains contain chemicals that react with the concrete surface to change its color permanently. The biggest drawback of using these stains is that they are toxic and might be difficult for DIYers to handle. However, it lasts a long time without the worries of fading or frequent maintenance.
- Water-Based Stains: If you are looking for an easy way out, these stains are the best option. They aren’t toxic like the ones discussed above. Water-based stains utilize concrete’s porous nature and soak in to form a smooth coating on the surface. They are available in a wide range of colors.
- Concrete Paint: These are thick and the best choice if you want a solid color with no concrete visible underneath.
Some Tips for Staining Concrete
- Make sure you ensure ventilation by opening windows and doors and setting up fans to improve proper ventilation and airflow.
- Wear safety equipment such as masks, gloves, and goggles while working with acid-based stains. Don’t forget to wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long-sleeve shirts.
- If you are using water-based stains, pay special attention to cleaning.
- If you are using a paint sprayer with an acid-based stain, make sure you select a sprayer that is acid-resistant.
- Start working from one side of the room and a side to finish. If you are not careful about it, you may find yourself boxed in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it essential to seal stained concrete?
No. It is not essential, but it is highly recommended, as it can increase the life of the stain and also protect concrete from damages.
Which is the most long-lasting concrete stain?
Acid-based stains are the most durable, followed by water-based stains and concrete paints.
How much does it cost to stain concrete?
If you opt for a DIY concrete staining, you will be only paying for materials and supplies. In general, you may end up paying anywhere from $100 to $400 on a normal-sized project.
Are you looking for professional concrete flooring installation services in Cincinnati, Ohio? Then look no further. Concretecincy offers top-quality and affordable solutions to meet your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us work our magic with your floors.