It surely doesn't surprise me. The proceed to take decorative concrete outdoors is an all natural progression of individuals spending more time, well, outdoors. Our “hydration society†is into exercise, meditation, prayer and just outright healthy outdoor living that draws us to private outside sanctuaries.
Of all the several types of decorative concrete, exterior staining is probably the most affordable. Additionally it requires the smallest amount of manpower. But this really is articles on how your business can be sure to pick the proper exterior staining product to generate the outdoor paradise your clients value the most. As you might have noticed, there are lots of new options available, and most deserve their place in this dynamic market.
There's certainly been some confusion, with myself included, about what product is best suited by which application. This is a superb time to simplify the staining/coloring process, not only for you personally however for your clients as well. Consider this — if the staining process is confusing for us, the installers, can you imagine what it is similar to for the conclusion user? The thing the finish user knows is that she wants a nice-looking project colored to her taste. This is best achieved when left in the hands of professionals. That is you, by the way.
Let's take a peek at what's readily available for exterior staining and the professionals and cons of each. After all is said, you will need to determine what's best for you personally and your business.
Few will argue the truth that it all started with acid stains. Acid stains certainly are a reactive coloring procedure that penetrates in to the porous concrete how to stain concrete surface. This is the absolute most permanent of all coloring options but is normally limited by eight colors. Now, these colors could be blended, diluted, streaked and tweaked to create many coloring options. The acid stains will chemically react differently to each piece of concrete by proof final color. Quite simply, you can't guarantee the precise color. If you are the type that loves difficult, then acid staining is how to stain concrete for you.
Acid Stain
Few will argue the truth that it all started with acid stains. Acid stains are a reactive coloring procedure that penetrates in to the porous concrete surface. This is probably the most permanent of most coloring options but is generally limited to eight colors. Now, these colors can be blended, diluted, streaked and tweaked to generate many coloring options. The acid stains will chemically react differently to each bit of concrete by evidence of final color. Put simply, you can't guarantee the actual color. If you should be the type that loves difficult, then acid staining is for you.
Pros:
Very durable connection with, and penetration into, the concrete canvas.
Inexpensive to purchase.
Same stain can be used indoors and out.
Gives a translucent appearance to the concrete surface, unlike painted or topical stains.
Extremely timeless-looking and old-world.
Cons:
Requires ongoing maintenance through resealing.
Limited colors, with some turning black from exposure to moisture.
Unpredictable when it comes to exact color.
Must be neutralized before sealing.
Stain is a toxic material that requires care when handling.
Looks different in exterior and interior projects.
Wet edge must be kept during installation, and some thicker stains may show brush marks.
Waterbased stains
These stains are nonreactive and is only going to penetrate into the surface when pores of the concrete are open. Strong prep work cleaning the concrete is a must. This stain type will offer additional colors to select from and can be used inside or out. Water-based stains are growing in popularity but aren't as durable in exterior applications as old-fashioned acid stain. I guess you can say here is the new and improved version of old-fashioned acid stain. Choose a good sealer to lock in stain and be sure to remind your clients of the significance of resealing.
Pros:
Very user-friendly. Nontoxic.
Many more color options than acid stains.
Will not blacken like acid stain.
Seems to be easier to build up or add color to color than with some other stain forms.
Practically endless color effects.
Less residue to clean up between staining and sealing.
Cons:
Not as durable in exterior applications as acid stain.
Will show the same variegated or translucent coloring as acid stain, although not as deep.
Tends to be more expensive.
Can look a little painted.
Sealer maintenance is a must.
Here's what all the above have in accordance: Regardless of one's stain or coloring choice, none will cover cracks or chips. Some existing stains may still be visible, although in an alternative final color. Prestained concrete must certanly be unsealed, and I would recommend testing the outer lining with a little bit of water to make sure the concrete is porous. Make sure you pressure-wash the top so that pores are open and stain-ready. It's usually better to let the surface dry overnight before staining. The sealer used to lock in along with or stain will not like water, so be sure to control sprinklers and potted plants.
Concrete also needs to have been left to remedy for no less than 30 days before staining.
A final note about staining exterior work: I rarely used acid stains, solely for their unpredictability. I also sense most states will institute special disposal requirements in the near future.
Regardless, there is without doubt the exterior stain and color market keeps growing and will continue to develop for some time. Best of luck and let me discover how it goes.
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