However, bear in mind that concrete paint will obscure concrete's natural texture and isn't suitable for concrete that takes a beating, such as a concrete floor. For almost all exterior applications, concrete stain is the superior solution.
While paint can hold light to medium amounts of traffic, it's not as durable as concrete stain specifically because it doesn't bond to the surface in the same way. Concrete stain is a penetrating coloring option that soaks into the surface.
The con of painting concrete is that it is not nearly as durable as staining. Over time, the paint can fade and chip away. It can get scratched when you move heavy furniture or can be damaged by bad weather.
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.
The durability of stained concrete
This applies to both interior floors as well as outdoor surfaces, so any concrete floor will benefit from a stained concrete finish that beautifies, seals, and protects against cracking, peeling, chipping, and fading.
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.
Depending on the concrete sealer used, it's usually recommended to seal the concrete every couple of years to keep the color from fading. If you choose a high-quality concrete stain and sealer, you may be able to shorten the period between resealing to every 3-5 years.
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.
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.
Spread The Love! Concrete floors that are stained and sealed don't just look beautiful but are also very durable. But this does not mean they are invincible. If you don't take good care of them, they can develop scratch marks, become dull, and wear out over time.
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.
Concrete Acid Stains are the only true stains with permanent results.
If you're new to the world of concrete staining, you might be wondering about the difference in cost between acid stains and other options such as concrete paints, epoxies, dyes, etc. Epoxy can range from $2 to $5 per square foot; while concrete paint typically ranges from $1.45 to $3.
Two coats are usually sufficient. Before resuming traffic on the surface, be sure the stain has dried for the manufacturer-recommended time. On exterior surfaces, you can apply a solvent-based, solid-color concrete sealer.
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.
Sealing your concrete isn't really a labor-intensive, nor costly, job. By sealing your concrete every 2-5 years, as recommended by experts, you should keep your floor in good shape, preventing cracks, pitting, and additional damage.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This is especially true when sealing or staining dark surfaces in direct sunlight. In direct summer sun a dark colored concrete surface can reach in excess of 130-140 degrees F while the air temperature is in the 90s.
Epoxy covering is an excellent choice if you need to cover up damage; thus, many commercial work environments opt for epoxy. If you want to improve the look and texture of a concrete surface, stain it to look like natural stone, and achieve a solid, long-lasting color.
Affordability. Applying an epoxy floor coating will cost between $3 and $10 per square foot, which is quite affordable than the $5- $12 price tag that a high-end concrete staining will cost you.
Apply the stain when air and surface temperatures are between 50-90 degrees F. Since concrete varies in texture and porosity, 2 coats may be required for uniform appearance.