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How to Colorstain Concrete

Adding color to a concrete floor will help enhance an interior's decor, or add curb appeal to a driveway or patio. Colored stains developed for concrete surfaces are acidic; the acid is necessary to penetrate the concrete material. And there is a variety of colors to choose from. If none suit your fancy, create a unique color by mixing two or more stains together. Once you have selected a color, you are ready to prepare the surface for staining.

Things You'll Need

  • Vacuum
  • Pressure washer
  • Concrete glue
  • Putty knife
  • Goggles
  • Dust mask
  • Long-sleeve shirt and pants
  • Concrete stain
  • Bucket
  • Long-handled paint roller
  • Paint pan
  • 1 box baking soda
  • Concrete stain sealer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Vacuum the concrete to remove all debris. If the concrete is outside, use a pressure washer to remove all debris. Then scrub any stubborn debris away with a scrub brush and soap. Use a product that removes rust stains or a glue remover to get rid of carpet glue. Make sure the concrete dries overnight before moving to the next step. If inside use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up excess water.

    • 2

      Smooth any cracks, larger than a hairline, with concrete glue. Smooth the glue into the crack using a putty knife or the provided applicator. Wipe up any excess immediately and allow it to dry.

    • 3

      Put on goggles, a face mask, a long-sleeve shirt and pants to protect your eyes, nose, arms and legs.

    • 4

      Mix 1 part concrete stain with 1 part water in a bucket. Mix the solution together using a stirring stick. Then pour some of it in a paint pan.

    • 5

      Apply the mixed concrete stain to the surface with a long-handled paint roller. Apply the solution to one section at a time, creating 10 foot long strokes. Then allow the stain to dry thoroughly.

    • 6

      Apply a mixture of one box of baking soda with 4 gallons of water over the dried stain with a mop. This will neutralize the acid in the stain and remove any residue. Suck up any excess water with a wet/dry vacuum. Allow the concrete to dry overnight.

    • 7

      Pour concrete stain sealer into a paint pan, and apply it to the dried stained concrete with a long-handled paint roller. Allow it to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions, then apply a second coat.