Decorative home concrete stains are a great way to add color to otherwise plain concrete finishes. Additionally, this method is versatile and works for almost any concrete surface. Therefore, with just some color: indoor floors, exterior walkways, driveways, and even counter tops can quickly be transformed into unique areas with a character of their own. Staining is easy, permanent, and can take as little as one or two coats. The best part is, this type of finish is often flake-free, making up-keep a lot easier.
Type of Stains
Stains are traditionally acid-based however, today there are other options. People can now choose from water-based stains and water-solvent concrete dyes. Each has its own advantage, but the overall result is the same; beautiful concrete floors that can be done to resemble other materials or finishes.
Why People Choose This Option
Concrete stains have been in use for years. In fact, the technique is fairly old, but its popularity is growing now partly due to advances in the industry that are affording people more choices than before. Added to this, most will agree that staining a finish one already has is far more cost-effective than covering or changing it.
People are increasingly choosing this option because they also realize the kind of creative freedom it allows. When they are stained, concrete floors can be made to look like wood, leather, marble, or even natural stone. Furthermore, the technique has expanded to accommodate persons who like vivid colors. Initially, most finishes were earthen tones, or sober colors utilizing the brown family and subtle blue-green hues.
This is no longer the case as new types of stains, and more experiments in the area, have resulted in colors like red and purple. People can also opt for yellows or oranges. Those who prefer softer colors still have those options, and some even choose to mix or match. The versatility means that the possible choices become almost endless, it just depends on how creative the individual completing the project is.
Benefits of Stained Concrete
Concrete is durable, and can be used both inside and out. Usually, people use concrete finishes to minimize upkeep, save money on repairs to surfaces, or to ensure that the area can withstand the level of traffic it is expected to experience. The problem many have, however, is that it can look bland. This is why stains are so useful.
In just one day, a boring concrete floor, step, or counter can be transformed into a vibrant finish with the use of decorative home concrete stains. This means that homeowners will not have to choose between durability and style. The best part is, this makes a fairly easy do-it-yourself project, so there is no need to hire a professional.
Despite this, many opt to use a professional contractor, because one with enough experience often knows the best way to maximize the stain’s potential. Instead of just using stains as a functional tool, homeowners should also consider their aesthetic value and make good use of it. Decorative home concrete stains make it easy to combine both characteristics, so there is no need to sacrifice one for the other.