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How do you stain concrete floors, and can you do it yourself?
I want to stain concrete floors in my house, the concrete is newly laid. I saw a photo gallery and they were beautiful. Can I do this myself or is a contractor needed?
Answer: We professionals use acid, you will also be using acid. The first thing to do is find out how old the concrete is that you will be staining. The older the concrete the harder it is to stain. Second, you will have to clean the concrete good with a power washer and a stiff bristle broom. Next your going to have to etch the concrete with acid (You can buy all of the necessary materials at your local hardware store or lowes/home depot). I use a company locally that supplies concrete materials and equipment, it's way cheaper there. After you have etched the concrete you will spray on the acid solution. The chemical reaction the acid has with the calcium in the concrete will allow the concrete to change colors. You can purchase different acids for different colors. Once you are finished staining the concrete you'll have to neutralize the concrete with a mixture of baking soda and water. After the concrete is washed thoroughly you may want to spray on a water based sealer to make the concrete shine.
It's not hard to stain concrete but you will have to take some precautions. Wear old shoes and old clothes. Wear protective glasses and gloves (You are working with acid remember). Buy a cheap broom that you can throw away when your done as the acid will ruin it. And finally protect any thing you don't want the acid to get onto (Brick, stucco, cars, painted surfaces, etc...)
Good Luck!!!
