Preliminary Testing
Before using the product for your entire project, try it out on a small, hidden area of the surface you'll be working on. This will let you see how it looks and if it's the right fit for your project.
Pre-Application
Clean: Thoroughly clean the surface to remove dust, dirt, oil, grease, paint, glue, sealers, curing agents, stamp tool releases, efflorescence, chemical contaminants, rust, algae, mildew, and other foreign matters that may interfere with the proper application of the stain.Temperature: Apply in temperatures between 60°F (15°C) to 95°F (35°C).Profiled: Conduct an absorption test to determine if the concrete is ready for staining. Pour water onto the surface and wait 3-5 minutes. If the water is not absorbed, clean and etch the surface using CitrusEtch™ to open the pores of the concrete. Refer to the CitrusEtch™ Technical Data Sheet for detailed instructions. If the water is absorbed, the surface is ready for stain application.
Left: Concrete surface passing water absorption test. Right: Surface failing the test.
Preparation
Check Kit Contents: Confirm your kit includes three ColorWave® Stain colors, one sealer, and three foam brush applicators.Choose Your Color: Select which of the three ColorWave® Stain colors you'd like to experiment with.Mix the Stain (Important): Pigment settling at the bottom of the bottle is normal. To mix it thoroughly, shake the bottle really vigorously. This step is crucial to ensure the pigment is evenly distributed throughout the liquid before application.Preventing Deep Penetration (Optional, with Caution): Considering removing the stain later? Applying a base coat of sealer before the stain might help, but please be aware it’s not a guaranteed method to prevent the pigment from penetrating deeply into the concrete's pores. This technique is intended to make it easier to remove the color later, though it may not completely prevent deep pigment deposition. Be prepared that complete color removal might not be possible, depending on the concrete and stain interaction.
Application
Check Sealer Dryness: Ensure the base coat of sealer (if applied) is completely dry before you start staining. This is crucial for the best adherence and effect of the stain.Dip the Brush: Immerse the foam brush applicator into the ColorWave® stain bottle. Given the runny nature of the product, ensure your brush is adequately coated for a generous application.Apply Stain Generously: For optimal coverage and color depth, apply the stain generously. The product's fluid nature requires generous application for proper coverage. Apply at least two generous coats for the most accurate color representation.Drying Time: Allow the stain to dry completely, about 4 - 12 hours. The stain may appear faint when dry, which is expected.Patience is Essential: It's important to allow the full recommended drying time to ensure the stain has set properly before evaluating its true color.Sealer Application is Critical: Applying the sealer after the stain has dried is essential for accurately assessing the color. The sealer not only enhances the color, making it vibrant and visible but is crucial for evaluating the true finish and color accuracy during the testing phase. This step reveals the stain's true color characteristics.
Clean-Up
Product
Clean-Up
ColorWave® Stain
ProClean Degreaser™ and warm water
AcquaSeal™ Water-based Sealer
ProClean Degreaser™ and warm water
EasySeal™ Solvent-based Sealer
Xylene
Disposal
Dispose of unused product according to local environmental or hazardous waste regulations.
Shelf Life and Storage
Use ColorWave® Stain within one year of purchase and store it in a cool, indoor location away from sunlight and heat.
Coverage
Estimated coverage is around 6 square feet per trial size color, varying with surface conditions and application methods.
Safety & Precautions
CAUTION: Avoid contact with eyes and skin. Do not inhale vapors. Seek medical attention if ingested or in case of contact with eyes or skin. Keep out of reach of children.
Warranty
ColorWave® is guaranteed for uniform quality within manufacturing tolerances. No warranty is provided for its application effects. Liability for defects is limited to refunding the purchase price. Users bear all other risks and liabilities. For inquiries, contact Direct Colors customer service.
