Explore the Beauty of Azure Blue Concrete Stain in Our Gallery

Discover the endless design possibilities of Azure Blue Concrete Stain in our project galleries. To ensure the best results, we highly recommend using a CitrusEtch concrete etcher before staining with Azure Blue. This will help the rich blue hues come through the slab. Each unique concrete slab will produce its own distinct shade of blue, and the use of products like Miracle Gro can enhance the intensity of the color. Feast your eyes on these beautiful blue projects and let them inspire your next concrete transformation.

In this project, we transformed a 1980s patio into a peaceful place to enjoy coffee in the morning, afternoon, and evening. The first step was to thoroughly prep and clean the floor, removing dirt, rust, paint, and drywall mud. We found that a citrus paint stripper and acetone fingernail polish remover were helpful in removing tough paint, but we would not recommend using CLR to remove rust spots as it seemed to result in a lighter color reaction in the affected areas.

To ensure the best results, we highly recommend using the CitrusEtch concrete etcher before staining with Azure Blue. This will help the rich blue hues come through the slab. We followed this up with two coats of EverStain in Azure Blue, which brought a sophisticated and calming feel to the space. To protect the finished surface, we applied AcquaSeal in satin.

This patio remodel took 6 days and covered approximately 175 square feet. Each unique concrete slab will produce its own distinct shade of blue, and the use of products like Miracle Gro can enhance the intensity of the color. Explore the beauty of Azure Blue Concrete Stain in our project galleries and let it inspire your next concrete transformation.

Bold and Colorful Concrete Transformation with Azure Blue Acid Stain

We are thrilled to showcase a customer’s beautiful transformation using Azure Blue Acid Stain. This porch had been covered with indoor-outdoor carpeting for 25 years and required a lot of prep work to get it ready for staining. The most difficult part was removing the mastic from the carpeting, which required renting a cement grinder to remove most of the glue. Despite our efforts, some glue remained on the floor and the customer decided to incorporate it into the design by sanding it smooth and adding pops of color with acrylic paints diluted with water.

Before staining the concrete, it was thoroughly cleaned and prepared with CitrusEtch concrete etcher and rinsed completely. Then, using a pump sprayer, Azure Blue and Seagrass EverStain™ Acid Stains were applied to the surface, with accent lines of English Red EverStain™ Acid Stain added using a squeeze bottle. To enhance the intensity of the blue color, Miracle Gro was sprinkled over the surface.

After allowing the stain to sit for 24 hours, the floor was neutralized and rinsed. To finish the project, epoxy was used to level a floor crack and embed a Canadian dollar coin into a chip in the floor. The end result was a beautifully stained and finished concrete surface.

To finish the project, they applied two coats of EasySeal™ Gloss Concrete Sealer and two coats of High Gloss ProWax Polish. This transformation took 7 days and covered approximately 300 square feet. We are so impressed with the bold and colorful results achieved with Azure Blue Acid Stain and are excited to share this customer’s project with you.

In this garage floor transformation project, we used a combination of acid staining and Miracle-Gro to bring out the vibrant blue tones and create a truly stunning finish. The Miracle-Gro helped to enhance the color and bring out the best in the azure blue base, resulting in a floor that looks like a beautiful ocean oasis. Along with the brown accents, the final result is a floor that is both visually striking and practical for boat storage and maintenance

Creating A One-Of-A-Kind Art Studio Floor

If you’re looking to create a unique and eye-catching floor, consider acid staining your concrete. That’s exactly what I did for my basement art studio, and I couldn’t be happier with the result.
As a first-time acid stainer, I was a little intimidated by the process. But I found that Direct Colors had everything I needed to get started, from detailed how-to guides and video tutorials to a wide range of color options and personal support from their staff.

I used Azure Blue as the base color and sprayed on two coats, with Malayan Buff as an accent color sprayed over the top wet on wet. After letting the two colors dry and react with the concrete for about 30 hours, I sprayed on a mixture of ammonia and water to stop the reaction. Then, I added some color veins using Azure Blue and Malayan Buff and English Red for added depth and contrast.

Once I was happy with the overall look, I sprayed on the ammonia and water mixture again to stop the reaction and then applied an acrylic, solvent-based gloss sealer to bring the floor to life. The end result was absolutely gorgeous – even more stunning in person than I could have imagined.

If you’re considering an acid staining project, here are a few tips I learned along the way:

1. If you have any questions about the acid staining process, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Direct Colors.
2. Make sure to mix the CitrusEtch floor pre-treatment with water thoroughly to ensure all the chemicals are fully dissolved.
3. For a beautiful and unique finish, try applying the acid stain wet on wet.
4. Have backup paint sprayers on hand, especially if you plan on adding veins to your floor. The acid stain can easily clog your sprayers, so it’s always good to have extra on hand.
5. Before applying the acid stain, use a small, soft bristle brush to remove any chalky residue left from the neutralization. You don’t need to get every last bit, but removing as much as possible will help the stain adhere better.
6. Take your time with the acid staining process. Let the stain react with the concrete for as long as you desire – I allowed mine to react for over 30 hours. Play around with adding water to the dry stain to see what the final colors will look like, and make any adjustments as needed.
7. For a vibrant, glossy finish, I recommend using a solvent-based acrylic sealer. It really makes the colors pop, but be aware that it can show small scratches. To add extra protection, you could try applying a wax treatment over the sealer.
8. If you want to create intricate veins or patterns with your acid stain, consider using small tipped plastic bottles like I did. These can be purchased at a craft store like Michael’s and make it easy to control the flow of the stain.

Upcycling an Unfinished Basement into a Laundry Room with Azure and Coffee Brown Acid Staining

This is our second DIY acid stained concrete floor project! We are happy to report that we are very pleased with the results and we’ve learned a lot from our first project. This time around, we took a few “shortcuts” by not making the same mistakes we made previously, like forgetting to wear spiked shoes during the etching process.

The project took about a week to complete, working around our regular work schedules and allowing for drying time. We had some materials left over from our first project, including a gallon of sealer, half gallon of wax, and spiked shoes, so we only had to order the acid stain, etching solution, new sprayers, and cleaner/degreaser for this project.

The floor in this soon-to-be finished laundry/workout area is approximately 300 sq ft and features Azure Blue and Coffee Brown EverStain acid stains. We finished the floor with AcquaSeal high gloss sealer and ProWax Polish, which we believe really makes the floor pop.

To prepare the surface, we first cleaned it thoroughly with the cleaner and degreaser. We then applied the etching solution and waited about an hour before cleaning up. The directions said to wait 20 minutes, but since our floors were machine troweled, we left it on a bit longer.

Next, we applied the Azure Blue stain and let it dry for about 5 hours. We decided to be sparing with the Coffee Brown stain and only used half of what we ordered. We did not dilute either color with water. The Coffee Brown stain is a very rich color and definitely the dominant one. We may use up the leftover brown stain on the storage section of our basement.

After applying the stains, we neutralized the surface with a mixture of water and baking soda, using a sponge mop to spread it. We then cleaned up the surface again with more cleaner and degreaser, rinsing with a water hose a few times before scrubbing it down. This time around, the cleaning and rinsing process only took about 6 times, as opposed to over 20+ the last time we did this.

Once the floors were thoroughly dry, we applied the first coat of sealant using a sprayer and squeegee. We pushed the sealant mostly forward to avoid leaving marks or lines. The next day, we applied a second coat of sealant. On Sunday, we finished the project by applying two coats of satin ProWax Polish.

We hope you found this step-by-step guide helpful and that it inspires you to tackle your own DIY acid stained concrete floor project. Remember to wear spiked shoes throughout the entire process to avoid slips, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and finishes to create a unique and personalized floor.

Extraordinary Marbled Acid Stained Floors: A DIY Success Story

The Wilcox family recently embarked on their first-ever acid staining project, using Azure Blue Acid Stain from Direct Colors to transform their concrete slab into a showpiece of their home. Despite having no prior experience, they followed the instructions carefully and were thrilled with the results. Initially, the floor was a uniform turquoise color, but as it cured, little bits of black began to appear, causing them to worry that something had gone wrong. However, as it turned out, the cause was actually the continued evaporation of water from the slab, which caused the color to change and stabilize over time into the beautiful finish seen in the project pictures.

The Wilcox family recently embarked on their first-ever acid staining project, The Wilcox family’s experience highlights the unique and unpredictable nature of acid staining, which can produce marbled and patinated effects that are difficult to replicate. While it is possible to create similar looks using techniques like applying water to the surface after staining, it is important to keep in mind that the final outcome is always difficult to predict. If you’re interested in trying your hand at acid staining, we recommend starting with a small test area and experimenting to get a sense of the process before tackling a larger project

Breathing New Life into a Concrete Bathroom Floor with Azure Blue Acid Staining

This bathroom renovation project involved the application of Azure Blue acid staining to the concrete floor in order to update its appearance. The blue tones created by the acid staining process add a touch of color to the space and help to give the bathroom a more modern look. While the acid staining technique is known for its durability and ease of maintenance, it’s important to keep in mind that the final result may vary and may not always be as striking as desired. Regardless, this project has helped to give the bathroom a refreshed and updated appearance

Updating a 1950s Concrete Basement Floor with Azure Blue Acid Staining

In this basement renovation project, one person tackled the task of updating the concrete floor, which had been poured in the 1950s. The project took three days to complete and covered an estimated 400 square feet of space across two rooms. The goal was to give the floor a fresh and modern look using Azure Blue acid staining from Direct Colors, as well as Simple Green cleaner to prepare the surface. One tip learned during the project was the importance of using a hard trowel surface prep to ensure better absorption of the stain, as the concrete in this case was not porous enough and resulted in a very light blue finish. Despite this challenge, the project was a success in giving the basement a more updated and refreshed appearance.”

Guest Room Goes from Drab to Fab with Acid Stained Floors

We recently completed a DIY guest room floor makeover using acid staining, and we’re thrilled with the final result. The project took about 14 days to complete and covered an area of approximately 200 square feet.

After removing the carpet and painting the walls, we used Azure Blue, Shifting Sands, and Desert Amber acid stains to transform the concrete floor. We blended the Azure Blue and Shifting Sands for a multi-colored brown effect that ended up being even better than we had hoped.

To have more control over the design, we used spray bottles for the entire process. My husband handled all of the carpet removal and cleaning, which was a crucial step in preparing the floor for the acid staining.

One tip we learned during the process is the importance of watching the video tutorials and being patient in your steps to achieve the best results. Acid staining requires a bit of trial and error, so it helps to have a good understanding of the process and the tools you’ll need. We also recommend testing a small spot with a trial kit to make sure you like the colors before starting the full project.

Overall, acid staining is a fun and affordable way to transform a space and add some character to your home. We highly recommend giving it a try if you’re looking for a unique flooring solution. Thanks to Direct Colors for the great products and customer support!

Transforming a Concrete Slab into a Fun and Beautiful Hangout Space with Acid Staining

In this DIY project, the homeowner set out to transform a fresh concrete slab into a vibrant and eye-catching floor for a new pool hall and gym game room. Measuring 20×30 feet, the slab was left to cure for 30 days before being treated with acid staining. The goal was to create a floor that was easy to clean, waterproof, and didn’t require the addition of flooring or carpeting.

To achieve the desired result, the homeowner used a variety of products from Direct Colors, including CitrusEtch, Azure Blue, Cola, Desert Amber Acid Stain, and EasySeal, as well as sprayer pumps and spike shoes. In addition to these, the homeowner also utilized a soft brush, squeegee, water hose sprayer, and hand bottle sprayer.

There were a few challenges along the way, including issues with faulty sprayers and staining during the hottest part of the day, which resulted in the stain drying too quickly to work with. The homeowner also learned the importance of properly preparing the concrete by cleaning and etching it, as well as watering down some of the darker acids and applying multiple coats of sealer to bring out the vibrancy of the colors. Despite these challenges, the final result was a fun and beautiful hangout space that the homeowner was thrilled with.

If you’re considering an acid staining project of your own, it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared for any challenges that may arise. Be sure to test your equipment before using it, avoid staining during the hottest part of the day, and take the time to properly prepare your concrete. With careful planning and attention to detail, you too can achieve stunning results like this one.

Transforming a Barndominium into an Office with Wet-on-Dry Acid Staining

In this home renovation project, our customer transformed a barndominium into an office space by staining the concrete floors using the wet-on-dry method of acid stain layering. The colors chosen for this project were azure blue as a base and coffee brown, which were applied to create a unique marbled effect.

Guest House Floor Upgrade: Acid Staining Brings Color and Character to Concrete

It was time for a special floor in our gameroom/guesthouse, and we wanted something different with a pop of color. After some research, we decided to try the veining technique using toilet paper and adding Miracle Gro to Azure Blue for a brighter color.

We followed the how-to videos and guides on the site and made sure to fully neutralize the Citrus etch and scrub it off our tools. To make the cleanup process easier, we followed a helpful tip and scrubbed the CitrusEtch into one area before vacuuming it up. This minimized the amount of mopping we needed to do.

The project was completed in just four days and covered an estimated 1250 square feet. In addition to the veining technique and Azure Blue, we also used an orbital polisher with scrubbing pads, mops, and plastic for the walls.

Our personal tip for anyone tackling a similar project is to have fun with it and don’t stress too much. Mistakes can always be fixed, so be creative and enjoy the process.

To prepare the floor, our customer first removed the carpet and glue, then sanded and cleaned the surface well using a degreaser. They then applied the acid using sprayers, leaving it to sit overnight and neutralizing it the following day. After allowing the floor to dry for 24 hours, they applied the first coat of sealant and let it sit for another 24 hours before applying a second coat. Finally, they painted the walls, replaced the baseboards, and returned the furniture to the room.

One tip from our customer was to cover the walls with plastic if using sprayers, as the acid can get all over the walls no matter how careful you are. In the end, our customer was pleased with the final result of this project, which transformed their sunroom into a bright and welcoming space with a beautiful and durable acid-stained floor.

DIY Acid Staining: How I Transformed My Office’s Floors on a Tight Budget and Timeline

As the operations manager and project estimator at Valtex, LLC, a subcontractor specializing in full shell construction, I recently had the opportunity to take on a new project: the flooring for our company’s headquarters office. In an effort to save costs, I proposed leaving the slab raw and staining it. While the idea was well received, I found that quotes for the project were almost as expensive as other flooring options. That’s when I discovered Direct Colors and the possibility of doing the project myself.

At just $0.50 per square foot, it was a no-brainer. The only catch? The project covered approximately 3,500 square feet and I had never worked with acid stain before. To make matters more challenging, I only had 3 days to complete the project from start to finish. Despite my lack of experience, I was able to complete the project thanks to the wealth of resources on the Direct Colors website, including videos, testimonials, and helpful customer service.

The process was straightforward, and all of the products worked as described. My biggest tip for anyone considering a similar project is to prepare as much as possible before you start. This includes digging into all of the resources on the website, giving yourself plenty of time based on the size of your project, and being patient. Prep work is key, and it’s important to take your time to ensure a high-quality end result.

Other tips I learned along the way include wearing spiked shoes or cleats to avoid footprints, using paper rather than plastic to mask off areas where you don’t want stain, wearing a mask or respirator in low-ventilated areas, applying light colors first, and checking the activation time for your specific colors. I also recommend pouring water on a test spot after applying the acid to check the progress of the activation.

Overall, I had a great experience with Direct Colors and I’m actually considering starting a sub-company doing acid staining. The process was enjoyable and the end result is stunning. If you’re considering a similar project, don’t hesitate to give Direct Colors a try. Your masterpiece is just an order away!

Animal Hospital Floor Makeover with Azure Blue and Malayan Buff Acid Stains

See the transformation of this animal hospital’s concrete floor with the use of Azure Blue and Malayan Buff acid stains. The once dull and uninviting space is now bright and welcoming, perfectly suited for the furry patients that visit.

Gym Transformation with Acid Staining

We recently completed a four-day project to transform an original house into a gym, using acid staining to give the space a unique and vibrant look. The project covered approximately 1,200 square feet and was a great opportunity to experiment with different color combinations.

We started by using Azure Blue for the veins, then filled in the gaps with Malayan Buff and accented with Coffee Brown. The veining technique allowed us to create a subtle but impactful design, adding depth and character to the floor.

However, we learned a few important tips along the way that we’d like to share. First and foremost, take your time and blend your colors slowly. If you find that your Coffee Brown is too heavy, you can always come back and blend a second color choice on the edges with the sprayer close to the ground. This will help you achieve a more balanced and cohesive look.

It’s also important to avoid overpumping too much pressure and to keep the sprayer close to the ground to prevent splatters. This will help you achieve a smoother and more even application.

Overall, we’re thrilled with the end result of this gym transformation. The acid staining gave the space a modern and inviting look, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. Thanks to Direct Colors for the great products and guidance throughout the process. If you’re considering a similar project, we highly recommend giving acid staining a try – it’s a simple and effective way to add character and interest to your space

Updating a Restaurant Floor with Acid Staining

In this restaurant renovation project, our customer set out to update the existing floor by covering it with a cement overpayment and dividing it into sections. The project took seven days to complete and covered an estimated 3,000 square feet of space, with an additional eight days spent on the project overall.

One tip from our customer was that they found it necessary to use twice as much of the blue acid stain in order to achieve the desired effect because they did not etch the concrete floor.  It’s worth noting that etching the concrete can help the acid stain to absorb more deeply and create a more vibrant finish.

Consider the Patina Effect: Using Azure Blue Acid Stain for Outdoor Concrete Surfaces

It is important to note that when using azure blue acid stain on concrete surfaces, the patina effect may occur due to the presence of copper in the stain. This natural process can add character and depth to the finished surface, but it is something to be aware of and consider when choosing a concrete stain for outdoor projects. It is always a good idea to test a small area before committing to a full project, as the patina effect may not be desired in all cases.

We recently completed a sunroom transformation that took just 7 days to complete. The space was an enclosed back patio sunroom, measuring approximately 350 square feet. When we first started the project, the slab was dirty and had not been sealed. We knew that power washing would be the first step in preparing the surface for the new treatment.

After the power washing was complete, we decided to use a wet on wet technique with Malayan buff, Coffee Brown, Azure blue, and Avocado acid stains. This gave the sunroom a vibrant and unique look, adding depth and character to the space.

One tip we learned during the process was the importance of using the right tools. We started with small spray bottles for the acid stains, but found it difficult to achieve the desired coverage. For future projects of this size, we will definitely invest in a pump sprayer to make the process easier. We also found that pouring the acid and spreading it with a broom worked better than using the spray bottles. For the sealant, we used a pump sprayer which made the application much smoother.

Overall, we are thrilled with the end result of this sunroom makeover. It’s hard to believe that such a dramatic transformation could be achieved in just 7 days! If you’re considering a similar project, we highly recommend giving acid staining a try. It’s a simple and effective way to completely transform the look of a space.

Cooking Up a Storm: A Guide to Creating a Marbled Concrete Cookhouse Floor with EverStain Acid Stain

In this outdoor home renovation project, our customer built a cookhouse in their backyard and used acid staining to transform the concrete floor into a beautiful, marbled surface. After waiting 60 days for the fiber reinforced concrete to cure, they washed the floor with a mild etching solution and let it dry overnight. They then applied two coats of English Red acid stain, with the second coat applied undiluted to create a marbling effect. They let the stain dry for six hours, then neutralized and rinsed it before applying a coat of Azure Blue acid stain using a spray bottle. They added a touch of Miracle Gro powder to a small amount of the Azure Blue to create a deeper blue color, which they used to add veining and deepen certain areas of the floor. After letting the floor dry for another six hours, they applied a neutralizing solution and rinsed it again before applying two coats of EasySeal sealer.

Our customer had several tips to share based on their experience with this project. They recommended following the directions closely and not skipping any steps, as well as allowing sufficient drying time between steps to ensure a good reaction. They also suggested using undiluted acid for the second coat when trying to achieve a marbling effect, and emphasized the importance of neutralizing and thoroughly rinsing the floor before applying sealer. They also recommended rolling on the sealer in opposite directions for each coat to ensure even coverage. Finally, they noted the importance of protecting the floor from direct sunlight during the acid staining process to prevent premature drying.

A Unique and Creative Concrete Staining Project in 3 Days

(Note: Azure Blue EverStain will patina on exterior concrete surfaces)

I wanted to add something unique and creative to my freshly poured 12’x24′ concrete slab for a future backyard screen enclosure, so I turned to Direct Colors Acid Staining. All of my neighbors had boring patio pavers, and I wanted something different.

I spent some time watching the videos provided by Direct Colors and received helpful tips from Samantha and Heather, the sales reps at DC. They recommended applying Miracle Gro blue granules to give a “pop” to my lakes and river and laying out my design with strands of toilet paper.

The project took just three days to complete and covered an estimated 280 square feet. I used three separate combo kits of Ever Stain and High Gloss Sheen, as well as one gallon of Azure Blue and High Gloss Sheen, one gallon of English Red and High Gloss Sheen, and one gallon of Black and High Gloss Sheen, plus 3 oz of non-grip powder.

My personal tip for anyone tackling a similar project is to take the time to watch the videos and follow the advice of the experts at Direct Colors. Their products and guidance made for a smooth and successful staining process.

Concrete Transformation: Adding Color and Style to Our Patio and Porch

(Note: Azure Blue EverStain will patina on exterior concrete surfaces)

In this three-day project, we stained both our back patio and front porch. Our house is a new construction, built less than two years ago, and the concrete had not been sealed. During the curing process, concrete blankets were used which left some marks on the surface that we wanted to cover up.

One tip we have is to use a sprayer with a plastic nozzle, as acid can react with metal. It’s also important to cover any rocks in your landscape as they may contain lime and could get stained. Plastic won’t stain, but be sure to wipe it off right away for easier cleanup. Keep a bucket close to your sprayer to place the nozzle in when you’re not using it, as the nozzle tends to drip or spray after you release the trigger. Trust the process, even if the concrete looks patchy and dull at first. You can still scrub off the finish with a broom and a baking soda water mixture at this point. Then, let it dry for a day before sealing.

For the patio, we used a wet-on-wet technique with Malayan Buff and Azure from Direct Colors. On the porch, we used Malayan Buff and slightly diluted Cola, applied wet-on-dry and spread out with a broom for a mottled look. We neutralized both surfaces after about 22 hours, washed them, and let them dry for a day before sealing.

We used Direct Colors’ Malayan Buff, Azure, and Cola for the staining and a high gloss, wet look sealer from Foundation Armor for the final step. The result was a beautiful and durable finish on both our patio and porch.

Adding Color and Character to a Concrete Porch

(Note: Azure Blue EverStain will patina on exterior concrete surfaces)

In this three-day project, we transformed the look of our concrete porch by adding color and character with acid staining. The porch is about five years old and we had an extension poured in May.

In this three-day project, we transformed the look of our concrete porch by adding color and character with acid staining. The porch is about five years old and we had an extension poured in May.

The project covered an estimated 400 square feet and the result was a beautiful and unique finish on our porch. The acid staining process added both color and character to the concrete surface, giving it a new lease on life.

Adding Style to an Outdoor Kitchen and Fire Pit Area with Acid Staining

(Note: Azure Blue EverStain will patina on exterior concrete surfaces)

In this four-day project, we wanted to add some style and character to the outdoor kitchen and fire pit area we were building. We decided to try the veining technique with Azure Blue and Coffee Brown, using a wet-on-wet method and filling in the spaces between the veins with Cola.

Our personal tip for anyone tackling a similar project is to follow the directions closely and order more sealer than you think you’ll need. It’s always better to have a little extra on hand in case of any unforeseen issues or mistakes.

The project covered an estimated 500 square feet and we used Azure Blue, Coffee, and Cola from Direct Colors, as well as a solvent-based sealer. The result was a beautiful and unique finish that added style and character to our outdoor kitchen and fire pit area.