Concrete stains can be a great option for changing the color of your concrete without having to completely resurface it. EasyTint solvent-based tinted sealer is a semi-transparent stain that can add a new color to your already stained concrete.
To change the color, we're covering the two most common solutions here: You can re-stain the floors (by applying a new penetrating sealant) or paint them (by applying an industrial coating).
Staining over stain is easy and works beautifully if you're applying a dark stain over a lighter stain on the wood. Remember, it's the same principle as dying your hair! This rule applies to oil-based stains, water-based stains, and gel stains.
For mild discoloration, flush the hardened surface with hot water and scrub with a stiff brush to even out some of the variability in the concrete's moisture and mineral build-up. It may be necessary to carry out this process until the discoloration disappears.
For subtle color correction, a pigmented sealer may be enough. Sealing or resealing one or both slabs with a pigmented sealer can provide a quick and easy fix while providing protection that is already necessary for decorative concrete.
Few materials have the longevity of concrete. And because stains permeate the concrete to infuse it with permanent color, a stained concrete floor or pavement should last a lifetime when properly maintained (see How to Protect and Maintain Stained Concrete .
The new layer gives your driveway a fresh look after years of fading and cracking. Extends its lifespan: if you care for your driveway correctly, it should last for up to thirty years. However, you run the risk of it deteriorating if you decide not to resurface.
If you're repairing an indoor concrete slab, like a garage floor or enclosed patio, Quikrete Self-Leveling Resurfacer will be your best option. The product's thinner consistency helps it to self-level as you apply it to your concrete surface.
You can use concrete paint, concrete stain or even add a small, new pour of decorative concrete around your existing patio to create a border. A border creates a definitive edge to your patio while adding color, pattern and interest.
There are two ways you can take a dark stain and make the final shade lighter. First option would be to dilute the acid stain itself. Second option would be to wash the stain off earlier in the process. In addition a second test patch should be done before completing the project.
Concrete discoloration can be attributed to inconsistent mixtures, too much or not enough water, and low-quality materials. Tracing back to the process can take the valuable time needed for construction.
Removal is Not Always Necessary
While it's never a bad idea to sand and strip old stain, doing so can certainly be time-consuming and challenging.
Using Gel Stain, you can stain wood furniture without sanding or stripping the old finish. It's so easy!
PolyShades® will work over stained wood (meaning it does not have a clear protective finish) or wood top-coated with a polyurethane-based finish. Proper surface preparation is necessary to ensure adhesion, so make sure you follow preparation tips provided in this Guide.
An unsealed, decorative stained concrete surface will show faded colors in a matter of a few months. You could advise your customer that's what happens with an unsealed project and let them make the decision about sealing, but rest assured that an “I told you so,” from you when the fading happens will not comfort them.
Although concrete stain is permanent and won't flake off like paint, it penetrates only the top layer of the surface and will eventually wear away as the surface is worn by traffic or weather exposure. You can prevent this wear and prolong the life of your stained concrete by protecting the surface with a clear sealer.
Laying Epoxy Over Oil Stains
Oil that seeped into the concrete floor must be removed before laying down epoxy coatings. Where there is oil, you get poor adhesion between the epoxy and the concrete. That's why it's important to remove all stains before installing epoxy coatings.
The Condition of the Concrete
If the cracks are large and require more than two inches of material to be repaired, replacing the concrete might be a better option. But if the cracks are visible and the slab is still structurally sound, concrete resurfacing is ideal.
If you pour a new layer over concrete right on top of the old one, you won't get proper adhesion. You must properly prepare your concrete slab and then apply a chemical bonding agent on top of it so your new concrete adheres properly.