Concrete Dyes and Stains
There are a few things to consider when purchasing the right concrete stain: concrete condition, project location, desired look, and skill level. To make your choice as easy as possible, read the brief product descriptions below to make sure you find the perfect Direct Colors product for you. |
Colorant Recommendation Chart
Water Absorption Test: Before choosing a colorant, it's crucial to test the concrete's readiness for staining. Pour a small amount of water on the concrete. If it absorbs within 5 minutes, the concrete surface is suitable for staining. However, if the water does not absorb in that time frame, the concrete will need further preparation, such as etching with CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher.
Follow these simple steps to determine the best colorant product for your concrete finish:
- Determine the finish of your concrete surface.
- Locate the column for that finish on the right side of the chart.
- Look for the 'BEST' recommendation for an ideal match. 'GOOD' is also a suitable option.
- Grayed-out boxes indicate that a product isn't suitable for your surface.
- Check the intended usage in the middle columns—whether for interior, exterior, or both.
- Click on the Product Name in the leftmost column to access its product page.
- Determine the finish of your concrete surface.
- Locate the column on the left side of the chart under Concrete Finish.
- Look for the 'BEST' recommendation for an ideal match. 'GOOD' is also a suitable option.
- Grayed-out boxes indicate that a product isn't suitable for your surface.
- Check the intended usage under Ideal For column—whether for interior, exterior, or both.
- Click on the Product Name to access its product page.
Ideal For | Concrete Finish | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Product Name | Interior | Exterior | Machine Troweled/ Smooth |
Lightly Textured |
Stamped | Paver | Broomed | Rough |
Antiquing™Stamped Concrete Stain | N/A | Good | Best | N/A | Best | N/A | ||
Portico™Paver Stain | N/A | N/A | Good | Best | Good | Best | ||
ColorWave™ (Low VOC) | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Good | ||
Vibrance™ Dye | Best | Best | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | ||
EverStain™Acid Stain | Best | Best | Good | N/A | Good | N/A | ||
DecoGel™ Gelled Acid Stain | Best | Best | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | ||
AcquaTint™ Tinted Sealer (Low VOC) | Best | Best | Good | Good | Good | N/A | ||
EasyTint™ Tinted Sealer (Solvent-Based) | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | N/A |