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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

Stains and dyes can be applied in a variety of ways, depending on the results you want to achieve and the size of the job. Most of the tools you'll need are readily available at hardware and home improvement retailers or even artist supply shops.

Harris says that for most projects, the best way to apply a stain or dye is by using a pump-type airless sprayer or high-volume low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. For detail work or small areas, you can also use a hand spray bottle, brushes in various sizes, sponges, and rags.

Pump Sprayer Video
Time: 05:37
Tips & techniques on selecting the right sprayer for each type of job.

HVLP Cup Gun Video
Time: 05:21
Proper function and use of the HVLP (high volume low pressure) cup gun tool.

If you plan to use a sprayer, Harris says that a conical tip - which sprays the liquid in a cone pattern as opposed to a fan spray - produces better results without leaving distinguishable spray patterns. With chemical stains, it's sometimes necessary to gently scrub or massage the stain into the surface using a bristle brush of medium stiffness immediately after spray application.

Manufacturers warn that when working with chemical stains, you should only use sprayers, application tools, and containers that resist hydrochloric acid and have no metal components. All sprayer parts should be made of acid-resistant plastic. Brushes should have uncolored, acid-resistant nylon bristles (colored bristles can discolor the surface). And pails and containers for mixing or holding stain should be made of plastic.

You can find a complete list of basic application tools for stains and dyes in Bob Harris' Guide to Stained Concrete Interior Floors.


Shop for Concrete 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.


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