Concrete Stain

Reactive Acid Chemical (RAC) Stain physically reacts with minerals in concrete to change the color of the concrete. RAC Stain color varies from slab to slab. Repairs to the concrete, such as filled cracks or divots, tend to color differently from the area around them. The RAC color chart gives you a representation of the color you will get, but if you are very color specific in what you want (for instance trying to exactly match an existing floor or countertop) then RAC Stain is not the best choice. Always test RAC stain in an inconspicuous area prior to applying to the entire surface. RAC Stain can be used on exterior and well- ventilated interior concrete.

Coverage–Amount of square footage stained per gallon varies with the surface texture of the concrete, temperature of the concrete and ambient conditions. Average coverage rate is 100-200 sq ft per gallon.

Application Instructions:

Step 1: Slab needs to be clean and porous (allows water to soak in). (See Tech Data for proper prep)

Step 2: Apply acid stain. For lighter shade, RAC stain may be diluted.

Step 3: Allow acid stain to react with concrete 4-5 hours to achieve maximum coloring effects.

Step 4: Wash and neutralize concrete to remove residue.

Step 5: Allow to dry completely then apply sealer.

Water Reducible Concentrate (WRC) Stain is a pigmented waterborne stain that bonds tenaciously to the open pores of the concrete. It is very color accurate (what you see is what you get.) WRC Stain colors can be blended for variations from the standard colors.

Coverage–WRC Stain always requires dilution with water. Its minimum dilution is 4 parts water to 1 part stain. At that dilution rate, a 32 oz bottle yields 1.25 gallons of ready to use stain and covers approx.150 sq ft. WRC can be diluted with up to 8 parts water to 1 part stain for a more translucent look, so a 32oz bottle yields 2.25 gallons of ready to use stain covering about 300 sq ft. WRC can be applied in multiple coats for a solid, opaque color. The 8 oz bottle yields 40 oz at the 4 parts water to 1 part stain dilution rate, or 72 oz at the 8 parts water to 1 part stain dilution rate. 40 oz covers approximately 65 sq ft. Porosity of the concrete will affect the amount of stain needed. Proper surface prep is essential to the success of WRC Stain.

Application Instructions:

Step 1: Concrete must be very clean and porous. (Water must readily soak in and concrete should feel similar to 120 grit sandpaper.)

Step 2: WRC can be diluted  for a more translucent effect.

Step 3: Apply WRC Stain with a gravity feed HVLP sprayer (preferred), pressure pot HVLP sprayer, airless sprayer, pump sprayer, cotton rag, natural sponge (sea sponge), manufactured sponge or brush (bristle or foam).

Step 4: Allow to dry completely and apply sealer.

Ten Second Color™ (TSC) and Active Elements Speed Color (AE) are penetrating dyes to color concrete and other cementitious surfaces. When properly applied, they create beautifully mottled effects similar to acid stain in a matter of seconds without the wait time required by acid, saving you time and money. TSC and AE are translucent dyes, and colors can be combined into countless variations and hues, or layered for unique effects. Simply add required amount of acetone and go! For interior and exterior use.

Coverage– One quart  Dye covers up to 150 sq ft. Coverage variations depend on concrete surface porosity and amount of material applied.

Application Instructions:

Step 1: Concrete must be very clean, dry and porous. (Water must readily soak in and concrete should feel similar to 120 grit sandpaper.)

Step 2: Apply Dye with a cone tip pump sprayer that is compatible with acetone. Dye can also be applied with a brush, roller or HVLP spray equipment. 

Step 3: Allow to dry completely and apply sealer.