Acid Stains work by chemically reacting with the different ingredients found in concrete. A typical basement floored is power trowelled after installation which generally gives a smooth surface. Applying the acid stains to this surface results in a marbled, mottled and translucent look in the concrete. “Grout” lines can also be mechanically cut into the floor for a tile look. A high gloss sealant is typically applied because of the light reflective quality of a high gloss. However, a “satin” look can be done if so desired.
Plain concrete outdoors can be impressively enhanced with the use of acid stains. The stains penetrate right into the concrete and so they do not take away from the texture of the concrete, whether it was a bull float or a broom finish. The sealants applied on top are UV resistant so colours won’t fade or bleach. Invisible silica sand can also be incorporated into the sealants for added traction.