Ultimate Guide to Stained Concrete Floors

How to achieve long-lasting beauty with stained concrete floors. 

Concrete staining allows you to transform plain gray concrete into a stunning decorative surface. Stains come in a wide range of colors and application methods, allowing for unique, custom designs that fit just about any style: earthy and natural, vibrant and bold, or subtle and understated. 

In this guide, you’ll learn everything from how to choose the right concrete stain to how to protect your newly stained concrete floor. 

TYPES OF CONCRETE STAINS

Acid-based stains

Water-based stains

Concrete Dyes

PREPARING CONCRETE FOR STAINING OR DYING

The level of preparation required before dying or staining concrete floors depends on the condition of the concrete surface. 

If you’re working with a new slab of concrete that hasn’t been treated with anything, wait until the concrete has completely cured. When it’s ready, you’ll need to clean the surface: 

• Remove any debris.  
• Use a floor cleaner to degrease and clean, if you need to remove any oil, grease, or other contaminants that may have come in contact with the surface. Try Brickform’s E-Etch. 

If you’re working with an existing slab that has previously been treated or coated, preparation is more extensive: 

• Completely remove any paint, coating, glue, sealers, or other materials stuck to the surface. Sealers can be removed using a stripping product such as Brickform’s Strip-It. 
• Clean the surface using an industrial strength floor cleaner and degreaser such as Brickform’s E-Etch.
• Patch hairline cracks. 

STAINING THE SURFACE

Before staining the concrete surface, read all manufacturer instructions for the stain or dye you are using. Here are some things to think about before you begin your project: 

• Protect the surrounding areas. Make sure to tape off or cover the surrounding areas such as plants, other surfaces, or objects to protect from overspray. 
• Dampen the surface. Though it’s not required, dampening the concrete with water before applying stain can help create a more uniform color. When a surface is slightly damp, it helps the stain penetrate more evenly, preventing dark spots, streaks, or blotching. 
• Select an application approach. Decide how you will apply the color: sprayer, brush, or sponge. You may opt for a combination—for example, spraying the product on, then using a nylon brush to distribute and smooth it out evenly. 
• Apply multiple coats. You may need multiple coats of stain to achieve the right color (this is something that you should test beforehand on a designated area of concrete, then confirm the color with the client).
• Allow sufficient drying time. How long will the area need to dry before it can be sealed or walked on? Tape off the area and prepare signage if necessary. 

Note: Brickform Technical Information Sheets give a complete overview of how to apply stains. Access them on our Tech Docs page.

SEALING A STAINED CONCRETE FLOOR 

If you’re wondering if you need to seal a concrete floor after staining, the answer is always yes. Sealing is necessary to protect your newly stained concrete surface. If you’re hesitant about the additional cost of applying concrete sealer, here are some pros of sealing the surface that you should know:  

• Protective layer. A sealer creates a barrier from dirt, oils, and other spills that may occur on the surface. It even protects the concrete from potential scratches or other abrasion.
• Enhanced durability. In general, sealers make a surface more resistant to wear and tear. It can prolong the life of the floor by preventing peeling, cracking, or chipping. 
• Easier maintenance. When sealed, stained concrete floors are easier to maintain. A high-quality sealer repels dirt and other debris, making it easier to wipe up spills and hose things off. Although deep cleaning will sometimes be required, it’s not required as often when the surface is sealed. 

Tip: Performance sealers or coatings, such as UreMax, DecoPoxy, or PolyAstic, are often the best choice for interior concrete flooring.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stain my concrete floor myself?

Yes, you can stain your interior concrete floor yourself. But it requires careful preparation, the right materials, and protective gear. We recommend hiring a pro for your staining project.

How long do stained concrete floors last?

Stained concrete floors, including those in high traffic areas, can last decades when properly sealed and maintained. The stain itself is permanent as it penetrates deep into the concrete surface.

Can existing concrete floors be stained?

Yes, existing concrete floors can be stained. However, the surface needs to be clean, free of sealers, and in good condition.

What stain colors are available for concrete floors?

Stain colors range from natural earth tones, like browns and tans, to rich blues, greens, and other concrete colors. Plus, custom hues can be blended to match your design preferences.

Are there any disadvantages of stained concrete floors?

Disadvantages include potential slipperiness when wet, although that can be addressed with the right sealer additives. Another potential disadvantage is the possibility of cracks appearing over time, and imperfections may show through the stain, affecting the overall look.

What are some alternatives to staining concrete floors?

Alternatives to staining concrete floors include resurfacing with overlays, which can cover imperfections and add texture, polishing for a sleek, reflective finish, and using decorative coatings or epoxy for added durability and design options.

What if the surface of my concrete floor has imperfections I’d like to hide?

If your concrete floor has imperfections you’d like to hide, consider using Cem-Coat Plus, a concrete coating that acts like paint, covering flaws and providing a fresh look. It can be further customized with stains to achieve a unique, personalized finish.

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