- Concrete Stain Home
- Get the Look - Stained Floor Pictures
- Color Chart: Concrete stain colors
- Comparison Chart: Compare acid stains, water-based stains and dyes
- Stain Buying Tips: Questions to ask before you buy
- How to Stain Concrete
- Types of Stains and Coloring Options
- Acid-Based Stains
- Water-Based Penetrating Stains
- Concrete Dyes
- Concrete Paint
- Exterior Concrete Stain: Click through images of outdoor stained concrete projects
- Stains and Equipment Product Reviews
- Troubleshooting Concrete Stains
- Common Staining Issues: Tips from expert Chris Sullivan
- Removing Stains from Concrete
Blending Acid Stain Colors
- Question:
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What is the best way to apply two colors of acid stain? Does it matter whether the light or dark color is applied first?
A beautiful blending of black acid stain worked into a
lighter brown stain, using the wet-on-wet method. - Answer:
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The two most common methods for applying multiple colors of acid stains are "wet on wet" and "wet on dry." Both methods produce dramatic color effects that can take a basic stain job to the next level. With the wet-on-wet method, one color is applied on top of the other while both colors are still wet. This method results in a softer edge where the two (or more) stain colors meet. Usually the lighter color is applied first, than the darker color is sprayed or brushed in and around the first color. Be aware that the darker acid stain will overpower the lighter counterpart, so less is more when blending dark into light.
With the wet-on-dry method, the applicator allows the first stain to cure completely (typically a minimum of 5 hours) before applying the second color. This process produces more distinct, hard edges where the two colors meet. The lighter stain colors are typically applied first, and care is taken not to stain the entire floor, but just random sections. The second color fills in the empty areas while overlapping the lighter base color.
As with the wet-on-wet staining method, darker stain colors will overpower the lighter colors. A little goes a long way. As with any acid stain project, apply a sample on the actual floor before starting the job to ensure proper color and aesthetics. Bob Harris' Guide to Interior Stained Concrete Floors has more detailed information on working with multiple colors of acid stain.
Learn more about how to buy concrete stains.
Return to How to Fix Concrete Acid Stains
Vintage America Acid Stain
Organic, antique patina, deep penetrating reactive stain.
Acid Stain by Surfkoat
Makes up to 2 gallons. Great for marble look.
Stain-Crete by Increte
9 standard colors. Useful for old or new concrete.
Elements® Transparent Concrete Stain
Water-based, environmentally and user-friendly
Concrete Stain + Sealer in One
Waterproof, strengthen, preserve and beautify in one step
Stone Tone Stain
10 color options. Resistant to chipping and fading.
Concrete Acid Stain
BRICKFORM Blush-Tone Acid Stain available in 10 standard colors
Eco-Friendly, UV-Resistant Stains
15 non-reactive colors that transform concrete.
