More Information on Acid Stains

WHAT ARE ACID STAINS?
Acid stains are water-based formulas that contain Hydrochloric acid and mineral salts. The acid etches (opens the pores) the concrete and allows the mineral salts to access the hydrated lime deposits. That is why it is very important not to wash your floor with acid prior to installation. It removes the very material needed for the chemical reaction.

HOW DO THEY STAIN THE CONCRETE?
The salts react with the hydrated lime deposits in the concrete. A true stain is defined by the chemical reaction that takes place when applied and not related to dyes or paints that simply coat the surface. A true stain will be translucent, in other words you will still see the same variations of the non-stained concrete even after the stain is applied. This is what gives the varied look or “patina” as some call it.

HOW THICK ARE THEY APPLIED?
We do not typically refer to stains in thickness since they chemically react with the concrete; however, they are absorbed into the concrete 1/16 – 3/16 deep depending on the porosity of the concrete, the amount of stain applied and the time they are left on the concrete.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THE STAIN IF MY CONCRETE CRACKS?
We cannot forecast cracks in concrete. However, after application, the surface will be a lot less porous because of the seal coat. Cracks that previously allowed a lot of water penetration can be greatly reduced. Consequently, less water is retained and the effects of cracking caused by freeze cycles should be noticeably reduced over a period of time.

IS IT AFFECTED BY COLD WEATHER?
No. Because it is part of the concrete is will do exactly what your concrete does.

HOW DOES IT STAND UP AGAINST OILS, STAINS, SALTS, AND DISCOLORATION?
Because of the protective properties of the sealer coat, it is a non-porous finish. The majority of stains due to oil and grease wash off with mild detergent. Salt, deicers, fertilizers and such have no immediate effect on it. In addition, because of its unique UV (ultra violet) additive, it will not discolor due to exposure to sunlight, even in the harshest of conditions. We have noticed that hard water deposits will leave a gray residue, but can be cleaned off with household hard water cleaners, and this effect decreases over time.

WILL IT WEAR OR CHIP OFF?
Since the Stain has become part of your concrete it will only chip off if the concrete itself chips off. If it is maintained properly it should not show any abnormal wear provided the acrylic sealer is replenished as wear occurs. We estimate this to occur no sooner than every 3 - 4 years under normal traffic conditions. As long as the sealer is in place, any wear should be absorbed by this protective coating. Any scuff marks, etc. generally disappear with a fresh application of sealer and the floor regains its high-gloss look.

WHAT ARE THE COLOR CHOICES?
We currently have 11 colors to choose from. We continually research other products (Dyes and other stain colors) to give you more options. Personalized logos and designs are available at an additional cost.

HOW SHOULD IT BE MAINTAINED?
Remember that your surface is not indestructible. The rule of thumb is this; if it will scratch, chip or damage concrete, it will damage the stained surface also. Exercise caution when setting heavy objects on it. Take care not to drag heavy items that could scratch it. Periodic mopping is all you should have to do to maintain the surface. Clean any spills as quickly as possible to keep it looking new. A new seal coat should be applied ever 3 – 4 years (+ or – depending on wear). Waxes can also be used to protect the seal coat but they require application (and buffing) every month or two depending on wear. It should be noted that waxes give more of a matte finish.

WILL I STILL SEE THE EXISTING EXPANSION JOINTS?
Yes. Acid Stains only react with the existing concrete. They do no cover it up. You will still see expansion joints, crack, spalling and any other surface imperfection. If these imperfections are not too drastic they actually add to the “aged” appearance of your surface and will generally enhance the look when finished.

SHOULD CRACKS BE REPAIRED?
If cracks are large enough to cause stumbling then they should be repaired. It should be noted however, that any repaired concrete will absorb stain differently than the existing concrete. For this reason repairing is not desirable for most clients. Small cracks actually add to the “patina” effect and make the stained surface appear perfectly “aged”. Many clients even request painted or faux cracks to give this desirable effect.

HOW SOON CAN IT BE USED AFTER APPLICATION?
Normal foot traffic can begin within 24hrs of the final seal coat.

WHAT SURFACES CAN IT BE APPLIED TO?
Stains can be applied to any concrete surface, vertical or horizontal. Great care is required when working with vertical surfaces, because they are water-based, they tend to run.