- Concrete Stain Home
- Get the Look - Stained Floor Pictures
- Color Chart: Concrete stain colors
- Comparison Chart: Compare acid stains, water-based stains and dyes
- Stain Buying Tips: Questions to ask before you buy
- How to Stain Concrete
- Types of Stains and Coloring Options
- Acid-Based Stains
- Water-Based Penetrating Stains
- Concrete Dyes
- Concrete Paint
- Exterior Concrete Stain: Click through images of outdoor stained concrete projects
- Stains and Equipment Product Reviews
- Troubleshooting Concrete Stains
- Common Staining Issues: Tips from expert Chris Sullivan
- Removing Stains from Concrete
Comparison Chart of Concrete Coloring Products
Tips for Choosing the Right Stain or Dye for Your Project
Acid Stain |
Water-Based Stain |
Concrete Dye |
Integral Color |
Dry-Shake Color Hardener |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Color options available (See these sample color charts) | Limited to earth tones and soft blue-greens | Nearly unlimited; different colors can be mixed to create custom hues | Nearly unlimited; colors can be mixed or diluted | Limited to earth tones and pastel shades | Comes in a wider array of hues than integral color, but tones are more muted than dyes or water-based stains |
| Can be used indoors and outdoors | Yes | Yes | Check with the manufacturer. Not all dyes are UV-resistant. | Yes | Yes |
| Can be applied to new or existing concrete | Yes | Yes | Yes | New concrete only | New concrete only |
| Can be applied to cement-based overlays | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Ease of application and cleanup | Poor After application, surface must be scrubbed to remove stain residue and to neutralize the acid. |
Good No neutralization or rinsing is required; application tools can be cleaned with soap and water. |
Good No need to clean the slab after application; dye particles are very fine and absorbed into the surface. |
N/A | Poor Must be hand broadcast, and can be labor-intensive and messy to work with. |
| Application tool requirements | A low-pressure sprayer, or brushes or sponges for detail work. All tools must be acid-resistant, with no metal components. | A low-pressure sprayer, roller, brush or sponge | A low-pressure sprayer, roller, brush or sponge | N/A | A bull float, to work the hardener into the surface |
| Performance | Excellent Because they penetrate the concrete surface, most acid- and water-based stains have excellent UV stability and wear resistance. |
Excellent Because they penetrate the concrete surface, most acid- and water-based stains have excellent UV stability and wear resistance. |
Good Some dyes are not recommended for exterior use because they can fade when exposed to direct sunlight. |
Excellent The color goes through the entire slab and will not wear away. |
Excellent Improves the strength and density of the concrete surface; also UV resistant. |
| Are safety precautions required? | Yes May contain corrosive components that can cause eye, skin, and lung irritation. Wear impervious gloves and boots, eye protection, and a facemask to prevent inhalation. |
No Water-based stains typically have a low VOC content and are safe to apply without concern for odors or toxic fumes. |
Yes, if solvent-based Solvent-based dyes are flammable and can produce hazardous vapors. For projects in occupied spaces or where ventilation is poor, use a water-based dye. |
No | Yes Airborne powder can be harmful to breathe. Wear a respirator or facemask when working with these products. |
Shop for Concrete Stains
Vintage America Acid Stain
Organic, antique patina, deep penetrating reactive stain.
Acid Stain by Surfkoat
Makes up to 2 gallons. Great for marble look.
Stain-Crete by Increte
9 standard colors. Useful for old or new concrete.
Elements® Transparent Concrete Stain
Water-based, environmentally and user-friendly
Concrete Stain + Sealer in One
Waterproof, strengthen, preserve and beautify in one step
Stone Tone Stain
10 color options. Resistant to chipping and fading.
Concrete Acid Stain
BRICKFORM Blush-Tone Acid Stain available in 10 standard colors
Eco-Friendly, UV-Resistant Stains
15 non-reactive colors that transform concrete.
Semi-Transparent Concrete Stain
Eco-Stain by SureCrete, water-based, 30 UV-stable colors.
