There are many options in color and design techniques that can be used on existing concrete surfaces, old or new, with the right surface preparation.

Because many factors can affect the final outcome, for instance the age and condition of the concrete, we strive to be conscientious during every phase of the project, beginning with the initial consultation and approval of the samples that we provide. Our surface preparation is as important to us as the staining and the final application of the sealer.

Water Based Acrylic Dye Stains

Our water based concrete dye stains have very low levels of VOC’s, (volatile organic compounds) less than 1% when diluted for use, which makes them much more environmentally friendly than acid stains. They come in a wide range of colors, and are UV and weather resistant so the colors last for years. Although they do penetrate the surface, they are still a topical application with no chemical reaction. These acrylic dye stains create a similar translucent and variegated look to the acid stains.

Some of the techniques we have developed for our interior and exterior decorative concrete are unique to Garden Spaces and allows us to do a wide variety of color and design options.

Here are a few sample effects that we have been able to achieve using our hand staining techniques with our environmentally friendly dye stains.

Blue	Kimi's Brown
Slate	Green

Chemical Stains

Usually referred to as acid stains, they are a mixture of water, metallic salts and hydrochloric acid. The acid in the mixture lightly etches the surface of the concrete, allowing the salts to penetrate. When these metallic salts combine with the hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) in the concrete, a chemical reaction takes place which creates a permanent color that won’t fade, chip or peel away.

Depending on the color, condition and the amount of minerals within the concrete, each surface will react and accept the stain differently, creating its own unique appearance. Like wood stains, acid stains are translucent, and vary in degrees of intensity. The mottled and variegated look of acid stained floors is what gives them their greatest appeal.

These stains are mostly found in a variety of rich earth tones, and can also be enhanced with more color by adding other types of stains into the project.

We can also achieve beautiful effects with acid stains!

Bright acid

Gold acid

A few sample colors available in acid stains.