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Concrete Stains & Dyes

Brickform’s surface-applied coloring products are ideal for both new and existing concrete surfaces. Choose from concrete stains and dyes that are suitable for interior and exterior applications, including concrete floors, pool decks and more. Select the type of stain below to see color options.

Why use Brickform concrete stains?

As a contractor, you know the importance of delivering high-quality work that stands out from the rest. Brickform’s stains and dyes are the perfect way to take your projects to the next level.

Brickform offers a wide range of vibrant and long-lasting color options. From earthy acid stains to easy-to-apply water-based stains, we have what you need to create unique and personalized designs.

Use Brickform concrete stains to transform ordinary concrete into the rich look of granite or marble, or to produce the aged appearance of stone or masonry. If you’re looking for something more vibrant, or are using stencils or creating a logo, then concrete dye is a good choice.

Whether indoors or out, residential or commercial, Brickform’s stains and dyes offer a cost-effective and efficient solution for enhancing your concrete projects. When sealed with a high-quality concrete sealer, your concrete stain work will look beautiful and vibrant for years to come.

Notes:

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular colors?

The most popular colors for concrete stains are earth tones including browns, tans, and terra cottas. Gray, green and blue hues are also possible. Color choice ultimately depends on the desired appearance for the project.

Brickform’s top-selling stain colors are:

  • Ebony, Walnut and Mission Brown Blush-Tone Acid Stain
  • Ebony, Olympic Bronze and Aged Walnut ARTesian Water-Based Stain
  • Grey, Black and Midnight Black Pro-Dye Plus

What are the best concrete stains?

The best concrete stain should have good coverage, UV stability, and durability. It should be easy to apply, penetrate the concrete surface, and produce rich color. High-quality stains enhance the natural look of the concrete and resist fading, peeling, and chipping. Brickform’s professional-grade stains offer a high-performance solution that will exceed your expectations.

How much does concrete stain cost?

The cost of Brickform concrete stains varies depending on color and type. On average, a 1-gallon bottle covers 200 to 300 square feet. For the most accurate stain pricing, please contact a local distributor or contractor. Prices may vary by region. Find a distributor near you.

How many types of concrete stain are there?

There are two main types of concrete stain: acid-based and water-based. Acid stains react chemically with the concrete to create variegated color effects. Water-based stains are made with suspended Iron Oxide pigments that penetrate the concrete surface.

Reactive vs. Non-reactive

Acid stain Reactive
Water-based stain Non-reactive
Pro Dye Non-reactive

What’s the difference between concrete dye and stain?

The main difference between concrete dye and stain is the way they deposit color.

Concrete dyes are composed of micronized pigments that use water or acetone as carriers to impart color onto polished or tightly troweled concrete. Dyes are not typically UV stable, so they are best suited for interior applications where they offer a rich array of customizable colors.

On the other hand, stains can be reactive or non-reactive. Acid stains chemically react with the concrete’s surface to create unique, variegated effects. Non-reactive water-based stains penetrate the surface, leaving behind the desired color after the water has evaporated. Stains are ideal for both interior and exterior applications where a natural, earthy look is desired.

How is concrete stain applied?

Concrete stain can be applied in several ways, depending on the type and desired effect. First, the surface should be cleaned and prepped to ensure proper penetration. Water-based stains can be applied using a brush, roller, or sprayer and typically require one or two coats. Acid stains are applied by spraying through an acid-resistant sprayer allowing it to react and then neutralizing the surface.

Always follow the instructions on the Technical Information Sheets and take appropriate safety precautions.

Where can I buy stains for concrete?

Concrete stains can be bought at home improvement stores, specialty concrete supply stores or from online retailers. Brickform stains are available through a network of distributors throughout North America. Head over to the Brickform map and find a distributor near you.

How long does it take concrete stain to dry?

The drying time for concrete stain varies depending on the type, conditions, and porosity of the surface. Generally, water-based stains dry faster, typically within a couple of hours, while acid stains take 6 or more hours to fully react with the concrete.

Is concrete stain toxic?

Concrete stains contain chemicals that may be toxic if ingested or inhaled in large quantities. Keep stains out of reach of children and pets.

Acid-based stains contain hydrochloric acid, which can be harmful if not used properly and protective gear is not worn. Water-based stains, on the other hand, are typically less toxic, produce fewer fumes, and are low-VOC and non-hazardous.

Read the instructions on the Technical Information Sheet and check the full SDS for safety information (see Brickfrom technical documents). Take appropriate safety measures when using any type of concrete stain. This includes wearing gloves, protective clothing, and a respirator, while also ensuring proper ventilation for indoor projects.

Does concrete stain wear off or peel?

Acid Stain is permanent because of the chemical reaction that takes place. If applied correctly, acid and water-based stains will not wear or peel. To ensure the longevity of the stained concrete, it’s important to properly clean and prepare the surface before application, apply the stain according to the instructions, and use a high-quality sealer to protect the stained surface from abrasion, moisture, and UV rays.

For interior stains, maintain concrete surface with Brickform Premium Acrylic Floor Finish.

What’s better concrete stain or paint?

Concrete stain penetrates or reacts with the concrete, making it durable and long-lasting. While concrete paint is applied in a layer on the surface and may peel, flake or delaminate over time.

Stains offer translucent color with unique effects that imitate natural stone or masonry. But, if you’re looking for an opaque color solution that will cover imperfections on the concrete surface, use Brickform Cem-Coat, a cementitious coating that outperforms paint. Learn more about the benefits of painting concrete with Cem-Coat.

Landscaped concrete decorative squares
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