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What is Acid Stain PDF Print E-mail
Written by Terry Mallory   
Wednesday, 27 July 2005

THE PROCESS
Acid staining is a coloring process that involves a chemical reaction with a concrete material. The solution is made of water, acid, and inorganic salts which react with the minerals already present in the concrete. Acid stain creates a marbled type appearance, which gives off varying and unique intensities of color that resemble natural stone. It is perfect for walks, entrances, driveways, living rooms, bathrooms, patios, and any high traffic area. Because acid stain is not a paint-like top coat, the color will not chip or peel. Each concrete slab absorbs the stain differently, giving the surface a perfectly aged and multi-hued look. Not all slabs are able to absorb acid stain well. Acid Stain works well on both new and old concrete surfaces. However, the condition of the slab matters greatly. If the concrete is fragmented, shows exposed aggregate, or has been painted or stained before, the acid stain may not absorb as well as it would on a clean and smooth or a textured (as in stamped) surface.

An additional process that can be done to acid stained concrete is scoring. Score lines can be cut into the concrete providing a natural barrier between colors. This allows the owner to create singular designs that can vary in color, making the floor more unique.

COLORS
Acid stain is mainly done in colors that compliment already existing floor surfaces and colors of the residence. The most typical colors are differing shades of earth-tone browns, reddish browns, and greens. Unique colors can also be created by mixing and matching available colors or applying the colors at various rates.

MAINTENANCE
Acid stained floors are very durable and are very easy to maintain. Acid stained floors should have a sealer or wax applied on a regular basis depending on environmental factors and whether or not the floor is in a high traffic area.

Last Updated ( Friday, 15 June 2007 )