Concrete Dyes and Stains

Types of Concrete Colorants

Concrete colorants enhance the appearance of concrete surfaces, categorized into five main types: Acid-Based Stains, Water-Based Stains, Solvent-Based Stains, Acetone-Based Dye Stains, and Tinted Sealers. Each type offers unique benefits and effects, suited for various applications and design aspirations.

Acid-Based Stains

Acid-based stains chemically react with concrete's minerals, permanently altering the surface's composition to create a natural marbling effect. This process is irreversible, ensuring the final color remains intact. For the final color to fully emerge, sealing is required.

• EverStain™: A highly concentrated, liquid-form acid stain.
• DecoGel™: A gel-based acid stain, preferred for vertical surfaces because of its non-drip properties.

Water-Based Stains

Water-based stains do not chemically react with concrete. They deposit color into the surface pores, allowing for a wide range of hues, including vibrant colors unattainable with acid staining. These stains are easier to apply and yield more predictable color outcomes. Sealing is required to preserve the pigment and enhance the final color.

• ColorWave®: This product enables the creation of marbled and mottled designs without changing the concrete's chemical composition, streamlining the application process.

Solvent-Based Stains

These stains use a solvent-based dispersant to deliver pigments, known for their strong odor. They are an economical choice for coloring outdoor concrete, easy to apply, and offer design flexibility. Sealing is required to preserve the pigment and enhance the final color.

• Antiquing™ Stain: Suitable for a variety of outdoor concrete finishes, such as stamped, broomed, scored, and swirled. Ideal for restoring color to faded, integrally colored concrete.
• Portico™ Paver Stain: Developed with a higher pigment concentration, making it suitable for porous surfaces such as concrete pavers.

Acetone-Based Dye Stains

Acetone-based dye stains are extremely versatile and favored by professionals to correct color imperfections. They dry quickly and are available in the widest range of colors, suitable for achieving both subtle and dramatic effects.

• Vibrance™ Dye: Can create solid colors or a multi-dimensional look, and unlike traditional acetone-based dyes, it is UV stable for indoor and outdoor use.

Tinted Sealers

Tinted sealers offer dual benefits by protecting concrete against water, stains, wear, and damage while simultaneously adding color to the surface. These products create a protective layer atop the concrete, fulfilling both aesthetic and protective roles.

• AcquaTint™: A water-based tinted sealer featuring a high solids content, making it durable enough for both indoor and outdoor applications.
• EasyTint™: A solvent-based tinted sealer that provides a deeper color finish with a high solids content, ensuring durability. As with all solvent-based products, it has a strong odor. These all-in-one stain and seal products are suitable for use on both interior and exterior concrete surfaces.