Concrete Staining & Sealing Service in Huntington Beach, Orange County
Concrete is no longer that dull grey building material to be covered with paint or other materials. We recognize the durability of concrete surfaces. After years of playing around with aesthetics, we know we have tremendous versatility in decorative concrete. Coloring your exterior or interior concrete enhances the look of your property, and the finish lasts a long time for a worthwhile remodeling expense.
We have served Huntington Beach, Orange County, and surrounding areas for 25 years at Custom Performance Floors Concrete Coating and Polishing. When it comes to decorative exterior or interior concrete, staining is an affordable and long-lasting option that retains its quality. We have years of experience in epoxy floor coatings and concrete services and have done stain work all over the county. From Los Angeles to San Juan Capistrano and Newport Beach to Rancho Santa Margarita: We know our concrete. Our Huntington Beach concrete specialists know how to create an aesthetically appealing design that our clients love.
Contact us for a free quote if you want to spruce up your concrete with a long-lasting, vibrant feel. We can provide homeowners with options and customizable designs to update the look and increase the value of their property.
Concrete stains are a versatile, customizable coloring option for a concrete coating that is much more durable than other dye options. These treatments improve the concrete look, especially exterior pieces like driveways, patios, and pool decks exposed to elements. Staining concrete bonds the color to the material below the surface so it doesn’t erode. Stains can update concrete flooring or walls. Choosing whether to go with a concrete stain or another coloring option will depend on the style you want your space to have.
Concrete Stains are an affordable method of concrete restoration, as their durability means less refinishing. They can go on older overlay and newer pieces of the material. New slabs do not have to be created just for this project. Some concrete dyes can only be applied to new parts, whereas stains can go on any concrete, though new pieces must cure for a month or so.
Concrete stains with proper sealing can last up to 100 years. Heavy traffic on walkways does require refinishing and resealing yearly (or twice a year), however. Stains can handle the UV exposure that hits exterior concrete. In contrast, concrete dyes and color hardeners cannot meet these conditions. Concrete flooring works best with staining as this won’t flake off under foot traffic.
Acid-Based Concrete Stains
These muriatic acid-based solutions undergo a chemical reaction with concrete properties to create a colored, shiny surface. Usually, this reaction results in a naturally occurring color, like a burnt orange or a rich blue-green. These colors and irregularities from the reaction pair well with other elements (such as natural stone) incorporated into the surface.
The chemical reaction that occurs with an acid stain is permanent, so the color will not fade. Unfortunately, the responses are not controllable, so we cannot guarantee color consistency and outcome.
The drying process for acid stains is lengthier, and the reactions emit strong chemicals, requiring serious ventilation. The pigments are non-toxic on floors but should not come in contact with skin or get inhaled. We recommend having experts handle any stain jobs, especially acid-based ones. Avoid being on your property until the project is complete.
Water-Based Concrete Stains
These environmentally-friendly stains lack the chemical reaction of their acid-based counterparts but are just as vibrant. The colors are more controllable, and you can combine and customize the look you want in a way you cannot manipulate with acid-based stains. You have a greater choice in hues and shades with a water base.
You can apply water bases sooner after the concrete has undergone pressure washing. Without the chemical reactions, the water-based stains are safer to use and do not require as strict ventilation. Another bonus of water-based stains is that they can go onto concrete that had previously had acid-based colors. In contrast, acid can often not go on top of acid.
That is not to say there aren’t drawbacks to water-based coloring. The pigments in the stain work quickly, so the control isn’t that great, and there is little room to correct errors. More applications need to be applied to enhance the color, and water-based stains need a sealer or will require more upkeep. Cleaning and sealing water-based stained concrete takes more time and effort than acid-based tints.
Your choice of stain will depend on the look you want to achieve in your space. The color stain experts at Huntington Beach’s Custom Performance Floors can make recommendations for you when you request a quote.
What Should I Consider When Choosing a Type of Stain?
When it comes to choosing the right concrete stain, consulting with an expert is highly recommended. At Custom Performance Floors, our team of specialists is well-equipped to guide you through the decision-making process, ensuring that you explore all available options and make an informed choice that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
We understand that selecting the right stain can significantly impact the final outcome of your project. Color selection plays a pivotal role in your stain choice. Acid-based stains often yield earth-toned hues and offer a unique, somewhat unpredictable appearance. It’s essential to set realistic expectations based on the inherent characteristics of these stains.
Our professionals can help you navigate the color options, allowing you to achieve the aesthetic you desire while considering the stain’s natural tendencies. Before staining can begin, the condition of your concrete surfaces is a crucial consideration. Assessing whether repairs are necessary is vital. The age and wear and tear of your concrete can influence your stain choice.
In some cases, it may be preferable to opt for one stain type over another, or your project may require the installation of entirely new concrete pieces to ensure the best results. Prior to staining, thorough surface preparation is essential, which typically includes pressure washing and resurfacing to remove any residual wax or sealer from previous treatments, ensuring that the stain adheres properly for a lasting finish.
Steps of Concrete Staining
The process of staining concrete involves several critical steps to ensure a successful and long-lasting result. First, meticulous surface preparation is essential. This preparation often entails concrete repair, thorough cleaning, and possibly concrete resurfacing to remove any remnants of previous treatments or imperfections.
Once the surface is adequately prepared, the staining process can begin. Stains can be applied using various methods, such as brushes, sprays, or mops, depending on the desired effect. It’s also possible to use the same stain color or opt for a different hue, especially with water-based stains. Achieving the desired color intensity or decorative plan may require applying multiple layers of stain to achieve the desired look.
After the staining is complete, the concrete surface must undergo a thorough rinsing process until the water running off the flooring appears clear. It’s worth noting that when working with acid-based stains, it’s crucial to dispose of the runoff promptly, as the water becomes contaminated during this process. Hiring professional concrete teams is highly recommended for safe and proper chemical disposal.
The final step in the staining process is the application of a concrete sealer. Regardless of the stain type used, sealing is essential. The sealer enhances the surface’s shine, extends the longevity of the color, and overall improves the aesthetic appeal of the decorative feature. Water-based stains may not last as long as their solvent-based counterparts, but both types benefit from this protective layer. It’s important to note that concrete sealers will require periodic reapplication, typically every six months to three years, depending on usage and wear. This maintenance ensures that the stained concrete retains its beauty and durability over time.
Staining concrete is a cost-effective way to make an otherwise plain material look great for an extended period. While this process may be more budget-friendly than other concrete decorations, several factors will affect the price.
We can create a quote for you at Custom Performance Floors based on an initial free consultation. Whether your property is in Anaheim, Irvine, Costa Mesa, Mission Viejo, Long Beach, or Laguna in Orange County, our concrete contractors can visit your property to get a good feel for what project you wish to undertake.
The cost of your concrete staining project will depend on a few things:
- Square footage of the area to be stained.
- The number of colors involved.
- Type of concrete stain to be applied.
- Any customization for the piece, including patterns and stencils.
Pricing may also change depending on the amount of preparation required before staining and the number of coats of sealer.
To start your home improvement project, reach out to our concrete stain expert team today, and we can begin your quote. We look forward to creating a breathtaking piece of art you can enjoy for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is concrete staining?
Concrete staining is a decorative process that involves applying colored stains or dyes to concrete surfaces to enhance their appearance by adding color and depth.
Why should I consider staining my concrete?
Concrete staining can transform plain concrete into a visually appealing surface with a wide range of colors and design options. It also enhances the durability of the concrete.
Why is it important to seal concrete?
Sealing concrete prevents water damage, stains from spills or chemicals, and extends the life of the concrete by reducing cracking and surface wear.
How often should I seal my concrete?
The frequency of concrete sealing depends on factors like the type of sealer used, the level of traffic, and environmental conditions. Generally, it’s recommended to reseal every 1-3 years.
