Can you stain pre existing concrete?

Step 1: Check Old Concrete Before Staining Your existing old concrete should be fine to stain, so long as it is not contaminated with glue, paint, oil, grease, sealers, waxes, or anything else that would prevent the stain from soaking into the pores of the concrete.

Is it hard to stain concrete yourself?

A stained concrete floor is a great and durable flooring option, and – good news! – staining one yourself is a surprisingly easy task (although you’ll want to avoid one major pitfall we fell into below).

Does concrete need to be smooth to stain?

Smooth Concrete The best concrete surface for staining is rough and porous to allow good color penetration. Smooth, glossy surfaces will prevent all types of stains, even acid stains, from properly sticking to the floor.

How do you prepare new concrete for acid stain?

Go over the area thoroughly with a wet mop and plenty of fresh, clean water. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding with acid staining. Floor prep is hard work, it’s messy, and it takes some time, but it’s worth the effort to be sure your decorative concrete installation lasts.

What should I do before staining new concrete?

Surface prepWhether you’re staining new or old concrete, thorough surface preparation is essential. New concrete must be fully cured before applying stain, and existing concrete can present any number of problems depending on its exposure to weather, spills or chemicals and the type of wear it has received.

Can a concrete surface be stained with acid?

In order to stain your concrete it must be bare, clean concrete. This is because of how acid stains work. Concrete acid stains are a very thin mixture of coloring and chemicals that, when poured onto a concrete surface, absorb into the concrete’s pores and create color. If the acid stain can’t absorb then it won’t work.

How long does it take to stain concrete floor?

Staining a concrete floor takes time. Depending upon the staining product you choose, you could spend from two to five days applying this finish. The more complicated the number of design features and colors, the longer the process. This applies only to concrete that is already in good shape.

What should I use to seal stain on concrete?

Stained concrete should be sealed for protection. Sealers will vary based on their compatibility with the stain that is used. Acid-based stains require residue to be removed and the surface to be neutralized with T.S.P., baking soda or ammonia before sealers can be applied.