Easy Do-It-Yourself Acid Stain for Concrete

To most people, plain concrete is not aesthetically pleasing, but applying a chemical stain can reveal a natural stone-like finish. The stain works by eroding the surface of the concrete, and changing the chemical composition of the top layer by eliminating or altering compounds that are reactive to the acid stain. A stained concrete surface can combine the practicality of traditional concrete with the beauty of marble or laminate floorings. It also increases the ease of cleanup and upkeep.

Concrete glue
Anchoring cement
Respirator
Saftey goggles
Rubber gloves
Masking tape
Plastic sheeting
Broom
Shop-vac
Paint roller
Wax
Concrete staining acid
Water
Sprayer
Baking soda

Instructions

- 1
  Repair any cracks in the concrete surface with the concrete glue, let cure overnight, then top off the crack with anchoring cement. Allow this to cure for 24 hours.
- 2
  Spread the plastic sheeting and secure with masking tape, covering all non-concrete surfaces, such as molding, cabinet kickboards, furniture, and transition areas to other types of flooring.
- 3
  Test the stain in a inconspicuous area, such a closet, before continuing. Ensure that the color is what you want.
- 4
  Load the sprayer with the stain diluted in a 1 to 1 ratio with water.
- 5
  Spray the concrete from left to right over the entire surface in a "typewriter" fashion, in several passes until the whole surface is coated. As you spray, have a partner use the broom to assure the stain is evenly spread.
- 6
  Wait the amount of time prescribed by the stain manufacturer's instructions, then wash the floor twice with baking soda and water to neutralize the acid, and dry with the shop-vac. Be careful to not step in non-neutralized acid as you will leave a footprint.
- 7
  Apply the sealant with the paint roller in two coats, then finish with three coats of wax.

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