Concrete is a versatile material. It can be stained or sealed to change its appearance and make it more durable for different uses. If you have concrete flooring—either indoors or outdoors—you’ll need to understand how staining and sealing can affect it.

What You Need to Know About Staining & Sealing Concrete Flooring

Does concrete need to be sealed?

Sealcoating should be a priority in maintaining every concrete surface, whether it’s a driveway or a garage floor. Sealing the surface creates a coat over it, protecting it from wear by erosion, traffic weight, and weathering. The seal also removes the concrete’s porous nature, which protects it from staining or water damage.

Does sealing change the appearance of concrete flooring?

Sealing enhances the colors in the concrete and gives it a less dull appearance. Though it enhances the colors, it will not change the look of the surface. If you’d like to do that or add a marbled appearance, you can do so with staining.

What does staining do?

Staining is done for aesthetic purposes. It changes the color of the concrete. Unlike colored coatings, which create a uniform appearance, staining permeates the concrete for a textured look with depth to it. Each concrete surface gets a unique look to it, even if the same stain is applied. This is because the stain reacts with the concrete’s composition to create marbled tones.

What’s the difference between acid- and water-based stains?

An acid-based stain uses metallic salts that are dissolved in acid and water. They react chemically with the concrete for a permanent bond with a translucent, marbling effect. Water-based stains use a blend of acrylic polymers and pigments to fill the pores. This creates a colored coating with a more consistent and opaque effect.

 

The experts at Paveman Designs can transform your concrete flooring into an attractive and durable surface in Rochester, MN. They offer concrete restorations, sealing, and staining for decorative concrete. Their skilled specialists use the latest epoxy products to provide a wide array of patterns and textures. Their staining options can also mimic more expensive materials, such as polished marble. Visit them online or call (507) 995-8215 to schedule a free estimate.