What To Consider When Applying Stain To A Concrete Floor

By Author: Mark Bruddy
Total Articles: 52
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Applying stain to a concrete floor can give you a luxurious richness that can't be achieved by any other coloring medium. Although staining concrete floors is not a new technique, it remains one of the most demanding ways to wow your customers with fabulous looks.
Protect the Walls from discoloration
Cover all the walls during the acid staining process by a masking paper. To attach the masking paper to the wall, you can pull the paper tightly across the wall, and glue the paper on the top with a piece of painter's tape.
Wear your protective gears
Choosing what to wear when staining concrete floors isn't just about protection from chemicals, but also comfort. Properly fitted equipments means you stay comfortable, warm and safe, helping you to fully enjoy your work without getting distracted from your job. Also, your safety gloves should never be so thick and cumbersome that they prevent you moving your hands and fingers easily.
A little bit of discomfort could affect your concentration on how to stain concrete floor so always wear protective gear recommended by the ...
... stain expert.
Add the acid stain to the water not the water to acid
When mixing the acid stain, make sure to add the acid stain to the water rather than water to acid. For hand trowelled floor, dilute the stain with water using a ratio of one part stain to four parts water.
Applying the Acid Stain
When applying the acid stain to the floor, let the first coat to dry completely for about an hour, and then apply a second coat. Repeat this process until the floor reaches the expected color. The acid in the stain reacts with the lime deposits in the cement floor giving it multiple hues.
Clean the floor with a clean mop
Thoroughly clean the floor using a clean mop. Vacuum up any extra water and allow the floor to completely dry before sealing. Make sure to ask your staining expert to recommend cleaning and maintenance products appropriate for your pavement type and exposure conditions.
Sealing the Floor
Sealing the floor protects the concrete from everyday wear as well as enhancing the color of the acid stained floor. Keep in mind that choosing the right sealer and applying it properly will extend the life of your concrete and keep it looking great for years to come. Many kinds of concrete sealers can be used on the floor. Applications differ with the type of sealer so you should buy the best product you can afford. Apply the sealer in multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat to ensure a better bond.
It is always better to spend a few extra dollars on a concrete contractor's service with proven performance. As with any staining process, always refer to the manufacturer's installation guidelines for specifics on surface preparation and proper application techniques.
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