Stained Concrete

One of the main reasons we love working with concrete is because of its versatility. We can bend it and color it any which way we want! 

What does it entail?
Stained concrete is made using two widely known techniques; acid-based chemical stains and water-based acrylics. These substances penetrate the surface. The stains produce a beautiful opaque in any tone and hue humanly imaginable! Have you ever wanted beautiful, luxurious marble kitchen countertops or marble floors for your savvy entrance way or patio but could never afford it? Well, the good news is: now you can! And we are here to ensure that it happens! Concrete can be stained to resemble anything from marble to wood. It looks like the real deal without the added labor-intensivity, added costs and long-term maintenance costs associated with natural products. Wood will need to be treated and cured. It will also cost an arm and a leg when repairing broken marble than repairing stained concrete resembling marble. Apart from being a lot cheaper, the stains used are usually UV-resistant and can withstand normal wear-and-tear. It can be used inside a building, or outside – depending on your individual needs. 

Acid stains penetrate the surface of the concrete and react with the compounds in the concrete. One the reaction has taken place the stain is a part of the concrete. It is not something that sticks to the surface. The fact that a reaction has taken place means that the stain won’t fade, chip away or peel off. Usually acid stains can only provide earth-colored tones. On the same permanent basis that acid stains penetrate the surface of the concrete, water stains do the same. However, with water stains there are a rainbow of colors to choose from should the earthy tones of acid stains not tickle your fancy! Did you know that you will even be able to get a stain with a metallic undertone? Imagine the swimming pool or patio you can build using something like this!

Concrete stains are semi-transparent. Should there be structural damages, holes or cracks in the concrete, stains will not cover it up. Concrete resurfacing should take place before staining. Apart from the damage that will show, stains can only be applied to surfaces free of dirt, grime or sealers. 

Common questions relating to stained concrete:
Is it safe to use indoors? Most definitely, though good ventilation is required. Should there not be sufficient ventilation in the preferred area, concrete stains with low VOC content will be the best option, alternatively water-based stains should be used. Water-based stains are a safer option for the indoors as they do not contain harmful chemicals. 

Won’t the outdoor stains fade with age?
Exterior water- and acid-based stains are abrasion-resistant. Though, the best option for an outdoor living space will be the use of acid-stains as they provide greater resistance against the elements. 

What will happen to my garden when I use acid-based stains outside?
It is quite safe to use, though any run-off should be contained as it could damage any plants that it comes into contact with. 

As you can see, stains offer a unique option for any structure. Stains can be customised to suit your needs, to resemble a specific natural element or to fit into the scheme of the architecture. 
Our trained team of professionals will be able to assist in the proper and safe installation of all stains – leaving you stress free and happy with a new and improved look! 

​