How to Acid Stain A Concrete Floor

The acid staining floor process, or often referred to as ‘colored concrete’, is one of the most popular applications to add dramatic and beautiful effects to a concrete floor. The application can be viewed as an ideal alternative to carpeted or tiled floors, as it gives a depth of color to the floor by combining different colors and techniques. It results in uneven coloration of the concrete floors creating different, natural looking patterns.

Before starting the acid staining process on the floors, we remove all the baseboard and trim work to avoid damage. The wall and the exposed lower cabinets are covered with at least 12 inch masking paper.

Floors need to be washed with water to confirm that they are not sealed. Grease and oil spots are removed by using sandpaper/floor sanders, floor grinders or chemical strippers. Our experts will usually tend to avoid any uneven coloration or imperfections as they may subtract from the exclusive finish of the floor.

Acid stains are the blend of water, acid-soluble metallic salts and hydrochloric acid (the main ingredient). All the compounds penetrate into the surface and react with calcium hydroxide in the concrete to produce distinctive patterns and finish.

Next, we apply the stains using pump sprayers. The spray wand is kept almost 18 inches above the ground and is used in random patterns to spread evenly across the floor. It is made sure that no puddles are generated. At least, two coats of acid sprays are applied; the second coat is applied after a gap of about an hour to let the floors dry completely after the first coat. The subsequent coats are applied until the desired color is reached.

A mixture of water and ammonia in proportion of 4:1 is applied to neutralize the hydrochloric acid stains. We make sure to thoroughly clean the floors using water to further ensure that no acidic residue is left. The extra water is vacuumed at the end and floors are left overnight to dry.

The next step involves using solvent based acrylic sealer to seal the stained floors as it penetrates into the concrete. The floors are sealed to avoid everyday wear and tear and air bubbling as well as to improve the color of the stain effects. Using pump sprayers to seal the floors helps guarantee the achievement of a nice consistent finish. This step (again) requires two coats: first with approximately 15% solid acrylic and second with 20-25% solid acrylic.

Concrete all around the world has long dominated industries, particularly flooring, because of its exceptional durability, low maintenance and simply pleasant appearance that it delivers. Xtreme Polishing Systems supplies the industry with innovative and professional concrete polishing and decorative concrete products , equipment , chemicals and so much more. Our professionals are specially trained with our products and will deliver the fundamental guidance and customer service when preparing and executing a concrete floor.

The experts at  Xtreme Polishing Systems understand that every surface can variate in properties, therefore each slab must be treated differently. We’re here to guide you in the proper direction, so call us at 954-419-5022 with any questions regarding ‘ How to Acid Stain A Concrete Floor ‘ or visit our website and browse our extensive selection of products today. Whether you’re a new business owner, flooring subcontractor, DIYer, craftsmen, artist, existing business or homeowner, our exquisite product selection and extensive industry experience will assist you every step of the way, from start to finish.