Compared to dyes, stains tend to last longer and hold up better. They have a less saturated color than a dye but are more durable and show less wear. For this reason, stained concrete is favored for outdoor surfaces that are exposed to foot traffic, weather, and sunlight.
Cons of Outdoor Concrete Staining
Transparent: The semi-transparency of most stains will fail to hide the existing imperfections in the concrete surface. DIY is not easy: Staining concrete is the not the easiest job for the amateur weekend warrior. Using a professional contractor ensure best results.
If properly taken care of, Concrete dye will last as long as the concrete itself. However, projects using Concrete Dye MUST be sealed every 1-2 years depending on exposure to retain the original color. If not properly cared for, the color could significantly fade requiring an additional application of dye.
Concrete dyes are not UV stable, so they are usually used on interior surfaces. Unlike stains, they can be mechanically polished. Dyes are vegetable-based and impart color by penetrating deeper into the concrete, since they are smaller in particle size than stains.
Colored concrete will get good and hard just like normal concrete. However, all concrete benefits from being sealed against stains and water damage. So even though it's not necessary, sealing your colored concrete will make it look good longer and will help prevent dusting of the surface.
Because topical colour is applied to the surface of the concrete, it is subject to fade over time. If you're after a coloured concrete driveway, this is bad news because faded colour alters the entire façade of your home and will cost you more over time due to maintenance costs.
Coloring your concrete can increase the aesthetic value of your property. It does not impact the durability of your concrete and if used on interior concrete, it can always be covered by an alternative flooring option. Cons: Every concrete floor takes the acid stain differently.
An attractive and expertly finished garage floor can greatly improve the aesthetics of your home's interior and add to the overall appeal. It not only increases the functionality of your property but also maximizes the resale value when you decide to sell your home someday down the road.
Coloured concrete driveways are durable, stylish and easily maintained which is why we and the rest of Australia love them. Remember to think about the colour, texture, sealer and maintenance schedule when looking to have your very own coloured concrete driveway installed.
Coloring Concrete With Water Based Paints
Acrylic paint can be a cheap way to color concrete crafts. The same goes for using latex paint for coloring concrete. I made these DIY Concrete Pillar Candleholders using white cement mix and the green was acrylic paint.
Unlike paint, stains don't chip or peel. Give your dull and worn-out concrete a lustrous look by applying a concrete stain that will both complement the look of your house and protect the integrity of the surface.
Stamped concrete driveways, patios, and sidewalks need sealer to maintain long and attractive use. This sealer protects the concrete from stains, discoloration, and moderate wear. Stamped concrete colors also look better when sealed. Sealer deepens color for a richer appearance.
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.
Stained concrete can be an excellent choice for your residential house. Due to light foot traffic experienced in residential stained floors, a simple cleaning may renew their fresh look for many years.
If you want to stain old concrete, using a true acid stain is always the best option. Avoid "acrylic stains" as these are disguised paint and will also peel with time. Concrete Acid Stains are the only true stains with permanent results.
One of the greatest pros of choosing staining over painting is that the stain penetrates into the concrete rather than just building up on the surface, as with paint. This results in a longer-lasting color that won't fade as quickly as paint.
While gray is the standard for concrete, it doesn't have to be bland. Plenty of concrete patios stick with the gray tones, but are able to add a unique spin. These can be stained to be clean and modern. Or you can mix things up with special charcoal, silver, or white highlights.
tan is good. If traditional gray concrete is too harsh for your liking, you can warm it up by coloring it light brown. Tan will sometimes have hints of white or yellow. It is a good color choice for outdoor concrete because of its earthy and subtle shade.
A basic stamped concrete design –– a simple pattern and one color –– costs most homeowners between $8.50 to $13.25 per square foot. On the other hand, a complex design with multiple colors, patterns, and accents will cost between $18 and $25.25 per square foot on average.
Like any hard, smooth surface, stained concrete can become slippery when wet, especially if it has been coated with a high-gloss sealer. For concrete floors or walkways exposed to moisture or in areas with a lot of foot traffic, there are ways you can increase the slip resistance without affecting the color.
Allow new concrete to cure for at least a month before applying stain. Use a plastic airless sprayer for acid staining.
No, the vibrancy and color tone in acid stains do not fade. However, the physical top layer of concrete which contains the stain can be worn away through use, which can give the appearance of fading. Stone Surface Specialists can apply a special sealer on your newly-stained concrete to prevent this.
Paints on concrete will eventually peel, as well, whether the surface is indoors or outdoors. If you're determined to paint your concrete to add color, opt for a paint with a urethane resin. Porch paint is the best choice.
Leaving concrete unsealed will leave it with a flat look. The color will remain flatter and dull, in addition to the concrete remaining porous and easier to damage. Sealing the concrete will enhance the colors and give it more of a marble or mottled look, smoother and with richer colors.