Backyard concrete patio refinished with Café Royale base color and Aztec Brown borders, creating a rich, uniform tone

Café Royale Concrete Stain Project Gallery | Real Customer Transformations

Discover how homeowners and contractors used Direct Colors Café Royale stains to bring warmth and elegance to their concrete. From patios to driveways, these real customer projects showcase the rich versatility of this timeless brown tone.

Antiquing Stain Trial Kit Tutorial

Stamped patio restored with Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain, showing rich brown tones and natural stone texture. — Stamped patio restored with Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain, showing rich brown tones and natural stone texture

Stamped Patio Revival with Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain

This neglected stamped patio got a complete refresh with Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain and EasySeal™ Satin, transforming a dull surface into a warm, inviting outdoor space.

Faded, discolored stamped concrete patio and walkway before staining. — Before: The neglected patio was faded and covered with efflorescence.

Outdoor living area and stamped patio refinished in Café Royale — After: Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain added depth and warmth to the concrete

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description: 400 square feet of a stamped concrete patio that had been neglected by the previous owners for years. Aside from extreme discoloration, we also had a large amount of clean up and prep work to do regarding efflorescence that had formed. After thorough prep work, we got to staining after a consultation with Direct Colors. It’s amazing how night and day the patio looks and we are so pleased that we not only found Direct Colors, but that we have preserved additional life on our outdoor space.
Personal Tips:
Applying on a shady day will not only make you sweat less, but ensures the product goes further for you. My regret is applying in 95 degree heat where it dried almost instantaneously on contact.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Cafe Royale DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Cafe Royale Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

Spiked Shoes for Etching and Staining Concrete Floors — Spiked Shoes

Transforming Gray Retaining Walls with Café Royale EasyTint™

This large Verti-Block retaining wall went from dull gray to stunningly warm with Café Royale EasyTint™ Satin, adding depth and elegance to a once lifeless surface.

DIYer applying Cafe Royale EasyTint Tinted Sealer to a concrete wall using a good quality sprayer — The homeowner used a sprayer to apply EasyTint™, proving that even large projects can be tackled with ease.

Retaining wall finished with Café Royale EasyTint™ Satin, showing rich brown tones and natural stone texture. — Retaining wall finished with EasyTint™, showing rich brown tones and natural stone texture.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1000 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We have several large retaining walls construct with Vertablock. The grey concrete color was bland and soul sucking. I have wanted to stain the block from the start but was intimidated by the scope of the project. I was so excited to come across your EasyTint product. Stain and sealer in one!! It was what I needed to take the leap and I’m so excited I did.
Personal Tips:
Any one can do it!
Use a good sprayer and wait for a calm day.
Less is more. Drips ( vertical surface) are your enemy. You can always come back and add more color to some areas.
Even the satin finish has some sheen to it.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. Cafe Royale EasyTint™ Satin

Products Used

Paver Walkway Restored with Café Royale Portico™ Stain

This faded paver walkway was revived with Café Royale Portico™ Stain, restoring deep, uniform color and long-lasting protection.

Paver walkway with efflorescence and fading before staining with Café Royale Portico™ Paver Stain — Before: The paver walkway had heavy efflorescence and worn color from weather exposure

Paver walkway refreshed with Café Royale Portico™ Paver Stain, showcasing rich brown tones and a smooth sealed finish. — After: Café Royale Portico™ Paver Stain brought out a warm, even tone and revitalized the overall look of the walkway

Note: These project photos are shared by real Direct Colors customers to showcase authentic results. Because our stains are semi-transparent, final color will vary based on your concrete’s original tone and condition. Always test on a small area first to confirm your desired look before full application.

Paver Driveway Revived with Café Royale Portico™ Stain

This homeowner used Café Royale Portico™ Paver Stain to bring rich, earthy warmth and renewed vibrancy to their faded driveway surface.

Full view of a paver driveway stained in Café Royale, highlighting a rich, natural tone and restored finish. — Café Royale Portico™ Stain adds warmth and life back to these faded driveway pavers.

Close-up of paver driveway refreshed with Café Royale Portico™ Paver Stain, showing even color and subtle sheen. — After application, the paver surface looks rich and refreshed

Details & Tips

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description: The homeowner wanted to refresh their paver driveway that had lost its original color from years of sun exposure. Using Café Royale Portico™ Paver Stain, they achieved a balanced, natural tone that revived the overall curb appeal of their home. This easy, DIY-friendly solution gave their driveway a professional, long-lasting finish without replacing a single paver.
Personal Tips: Prep is everything! Clean thoroughly before applying to ensure even absorption and vibrant results
Direct Colors Products Used:
Portico™ Stain Trial Kit: Driftwood, Aztec Brown, Cafe Royale
1 Gal. Cafe Royale Portico™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

Cracked & Scratched Patio Refresh

An 8-year-old stamped patio with cracks and fading was brought back to life using Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain and EasySeal™ Satin for a refreshed, durable finish.

Homeowner applying Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain to worn stamped patio using a pump sprayer — The homeowner applies Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain with a pump sprayer for even coverage

Patio after staining with Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain, revealing rich brown tones and texture. — Patio after staining with Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain

Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain restored color and depth to the worn concrete surface

A cozy, revitalized patio sealed with EasySeal™ Satin—ready to enjoy again for years to come

Details & Tips

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We had a stamped/stained back patio that was approx. 8 years old and multiple cracks and scratches. We wanted to refresh but didn’t really know how. We googled “restraining stamped concrete” and the Direct Color video came up. The video was extremely helpful and made the process easy.

Personal Tips:
Purchase a good pump sprayer. The first one we used dripped around the nozzle and even thought it didn’t hurt our patio and I could see it being a problem on an interior or more detailed project.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Antiquing™ Stain Trial Kit: Cumin, Aztec Brown, Cafe Royale
1 Gal. Cafe Royale Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

Quikrete Paver Patio Stained with Café Royale, Olive & Charcoal Antiquing™ Stains

This unique patio transformation used a blend of Café Royale, Olive, and Charcoal Antiquing™ Stains to bring natural, multi-tone depth to Quikrete pavers.

Stamped concrete patio before staining, showing a light gray surface — Before: The stamped concrete patio was plain and lacked visual dimension

Stamped concrete patio finished with Café Royale, Olive, and Charcoal Antiquing™ Stains, featuring rich, layered tones that mimic natural stone. — After: A custom blend of Café Royale, Olive, and Charcoal Antiquing™ Stains created a beautiful stone-inspired finish.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
This homeowner wanted to give their stamped concrete patio the look of natural flagstone while keeping the durability of concrete. Using a custom combination of Café Royale, Olive, and Charcoal Antiquing™ Stains, they achieved an earthy, variegated color scheme that complements the surrounding stone wall and landscaping. The subtle balance of warm Café Royale and cool Olive and Charcoal tones created a timeless, organic aesthetic that blends seamlessly into the garden setting.
Customer Tip:
Blending stain colors adds incredible dimension — test your mix on a small section first for the perfect tone.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Cafe Royale DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Qt. Charcoal Antiquing™ Stain
1 Qt. Olive Antiquing™ Stain

Products Used

Quikrete Paver Patio Stained with Café Royale, Olive & Charcoal Antiquing™ Stains

This unique patio transformation used a blend of Café Royale, Olive, and Charcoal Antiquing™ Stains to bring natural, multi-tone depth to Quikrete pavers.

Wood-grain stamped concrete patio stained with Café Royale EasyTint™, featuring rich brown tones and a satin finish. — This stamped concrete patio mimics the warmth of real wood after being tinted with Café Royale EasyTint™, offering both beauty and long-lasting protection

Broom-finished concrete patio stained with Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain, featuring a rich, warm brown tone near a pool and fountain. — Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain brings new life to this broom-finished patio, adding warmth and depth that complement the home’s outdoor features

Café Royale EasyTint™, a Stain-and-Sealer-in-One Solution for Walls, Hardscapes & Vertical Surfaces

From decorative retaining walls to vertical concrete facades, Café Royale EasyTint™ delivers rich, natural color and long-lasting protection on any hardscape surface.

Stamped concrete retaining wall finished with Café Royale EasyTint™ tinted sealer, showing deep golden-brown tones and a natural stone texture beside green plants — Café Royale EasyTint™ turned this dull retaining wall into a warm, stone-like focal point that beautifully complements the surrounding garden

Large lakeside concrete retaining wall stained with Café Royale EasyTint™, featuring warm tan and brown tones that mimic natural stone under a tree-lined landscape. — This lakefront retaining wall got a complete color makeover with Café Royale EasyTint™, achieving a warm, cohesive tone that enhances the property’s natural charm

The homeowner turned to Café Royale EasyTint™, a stain-and-sealer-in-one solution, to give it a more organic and inviting look.

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Aztec Brown Concrete Stain Project Gallery – Real Customer Results & Inspiration

See how real Direct Colors customers transformed their concrete with Aztec Brown, a warm, earthy tone that adds timeless character to patios, driveways, and interior floors. Explore photos, read their experiences, and get inspired to create your own stunning Aztec Brown-stained concrete project.

By Justin Richardson

Wide view of a finished backyard patio with vibrant multi-tone pavers, tropical landscaping, and a fountain centerpiece.

Stamped concrete patio with fire pit area finished in Aztec Brown and Russet border, showing rich color and glossy sealed surface. — Aztec Brown stain brings warmth back to the patio surface.

Stamped Patio Revival with Aztec Brown and Russet Accents

This fire pit patio got a vibrant new life with Aztec Brown and a Russet border—two coats of stain and sealer brought out stunning color depth in just one weekend.

Faded stamped concrete patio with fire pit before restaining, showing dull color and surface wear. — Before: A faded stamped concrete patio in need of new life

Stamped patio restored with Aztec Brown stain and Russet border, featuring even color and soft satin sheen. — After: A Russet border adds contrast, completing this beautifully refreshed outdoor space

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 450 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We have a stamped concrete patio out back, with a fire pit.
It’s been about 5-6 years since I’ve resealed it, and it was looking neglected.
I decided to restain the patio with DC antiquing stain first
I thoroughly cleaned the concrete on a Friday.
Stained it on Saturday, 2 coats.
Then I sealed it on Sunday, again 2 coats
Personal Tips:
Keep the pump sprayer pressure as high as you can. The stain and sealant comes out better. Don’t be afraid to deviate some from the circular pattern of spray, as suggested. Properly quarantine the area from pets.
I used the Aztec brown DIY antiquing kit with satin easy seal. I also had left over Russet color from 2019, that I used on the perimeter of the patio. It turned out gorgeous.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Aztec Brown Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Aztec Brown Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin DIY Kit
1 Gal. EasySeal™ Satin
1 Gal. Russet Antiquing™ Stain

Products Used

Seamless Blend of Old and New Concrete with Café Royale & Aztec Brown

This backyard patio transformation beautifully unified 10-year-old and new concrete using Café Royale and Aztec Brown Antiquing™ Stains, creating a warm, cohesive finish throughout.

Backyard concrete patio showing uneven color between new and old concrete before staining — Before: Uneven color between old and new concrete areas.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
This homeowner wanted to refresh and unify a large backyard patio that included both new and 10-year-old concrete. Using Direct Colors Café Royale Antiquing™ Stain for the main surface and Aztec Brown for the darker accent lines, the transformation delivered a beautiful, balanced tone that blended both areas perfectly.The project required a bit of experimentation — two coats were applied to achieve full coverage, with an extra coat used on older concrete to even out the color. After sealing, the colors came alive with a rich, natural sheen.
Personal Tips:
Apply at least two coats for even coverage — more may be needed on older surfaces.
Order extra stain to ensure consistent color across old and new concrete.
Don’t worry if the stain looks lighter before sealing — the color deepens beautifully once sealed./li>
Direct Colors Products Used:
Antiquing™ Stain Trial Kit: Cumin, Aztec Brown, Russet
5 Gal. Aztec Brown Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
2 x 5 Gal. Cafe Royale Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

From Faded to Fabulous: Multi-Color Paver Patio Makeover

his 500 sq. ft. patio transformation took just 8 days and turned a dull, poorly sealed space into a stunning backyard showpiece. Using Aztec Brown, Yukon Gold, Charcoal, and Antiquing™ Black, the homeowner created a one-of-a-kind look that now draws compliments from neighbors and friends alike.

Beautiful landscaped backyard walkway and patio featuring bold paver colors and fresh sealing with Aztec Brown and accents

Side-by-side before and after photos of a paver patio showing dramatic color improvement using Direct Colors products.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Be sure to fill any cracks between the pavers before sealing. I wanted multi-colors, so I colored each one a different color. We did 2 coats of sealer. I have a bunch more pictures and videos, but the application would only submit 10. If you want more, I can email them. The patio came out amazing. We have sent 4 different people to your website after they saw our pictures on Facebook. Thank you so much—you saved our patio. The patio builder built it last year and sealed it incorrectly with garbage sealer. We spent over $9,000 on the patio, and it looked awful. We searched and searched for a solution to make it look sharp and worth the money we paid. We are so happy that we found your company. We have neighbors coming by to see the patio! Everyone is blown away by the difference.Thank you for a great product! We can’t believe how the water beads on the patio now after applying your sealer. We never had that with the inferior sealer.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Antiquing™ Stain Trial Kit: Aztec Brown, Black, Light Charcoal
Antiquing™ Stain Trial Kit: Charcoal, Yukon Gold, Khaki
1 Qt. ProClean Degreaser™ Concentrate
1 Gal. Aztec Brown Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Black Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Charcoal Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Yukon Gold Antiquing™ Stain

Products Used

Stamped Concrete Porch Restored with Rich, Realistic Color

This 195 sq. ft. stamped porch was faded and sticky from a bad sealer—until Direct Colors stepped in. With Aztec Brown and a custom color combo, the homeowner gave it rich, stone-like depth in just 5 days. “Who knew watching Bob Ross paint would come in handy someday?”

Faded and discolored stamped concrete porch before restoration

Restored stamped concrete front porch colored with Aztec Brown, Chocolate, Buff, and Cinnabar Antiquing™ Stains, sealed to a smooth satin finish.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 195 sq. ft.
Project Description: Our front porch was a 21 year old – stamped concrete half-circle design, that had lost all of its original color. We had tried to reseal one time, but the product we used was not compatible, and therefore would not “dry”. It felt sticky to the touch a month later in the middle of the summer. It was not a Direct Colors product.
Personal Tips:
If you want to use the acid stain products on your concrete, DO NOT USE MURIATIC ACID TO CLEAN. We must have missed this advice when preparing to do this project. Fortunately, Direct Colors’ Antiquing™ Stain saved the day! Since our porch was a smaller project, we were able to use multiple colors, and got amazing results. We loved being able to restore our front door entryway, which actually looks better now, than when the house was new.
Who knew that watching Bob Ross painting shows would pay off some day?
Direct Colors Products Used:
The base color was Chocolate Antiquing™ which was included in the kit: Chocolate Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit.
Then we used the Buff Antiquing Stain to make the peaks (higher areas) in the stamped concrete visually “project out”.
We then used a combination of the Cinnabar and Aztec Brown Antiquing Stains in the lower areas of the stamped concrete to provide both depth and produce a more realistic stone-like look to the concrete.

Products Used

Quick Color Revival for 15-Year-Old Stamped Walkway

This stamped walkway was looking tired—until Aztec Brown stepped in. With a warm, rich color and glossy finish, it now pops with personality and hometown pride.

Discolored and faded stamped concrete, showing signs of wear and age.

Stamped concrete walkway with rich, warm tones from Aztec Brown Antiquing™ Stain and glossy water-based sealer finish

Details & Tips

Project Info:

- Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
- Estimate of Square Footage: 300 sq. ft.
- Project Description: Used Aztec Brown antique stain to add some color back to 15 year old stamped concrete. Used HC wet look water based sealer. Aztec Brown had a bit more of reddish/rouge color to it. Especially where it puddles in low areas. I kept it shook up throughout the process. I used sprayer. Would probably use nap roller next time. I liked the product, especially made in my hometown of Shawnee. Born and raised there!🙂.

Products Used

Curb Appeal Upgrade with a Warm, Two-Tone Driveway

A fresh combo of Aztec Brown and Sunset Tan turned this large broom-finished driveway and walkway into a warm, inviting entry. Clean lines, bold contrast, and a high-gloss finish brought it all together.

Wide view of large concrete driveway finished with Aztec Brown and Sunset Tan Antiquing™ Stains, sealed to a high-gloss finish. — Concrete driveway finished with Aztec Brown and Sunset Tan Antiquing™ Stains, sealed to a high-gloss finish.

Front entryway and garage featuring two-tone stained concrete in Aztec Brown and Sunset Tan with clean detailing and vibrant curb appeal.

Details & Tips

We power-washed, re-stained the walking paths, and sealed the entire 15,000 sq. ft. broom-finished concrete driveway using Direct Colors Antiquing™ Stains in Aztec Brown and Sunset Tan.

The color contrast added depth, and the high-gloss solvent-based sealer gave it a professional, polished look that elevated the entire curb appeal of the house.

Pro Tip: Get a quality sprayer for applying the sealer—it makes a big difference in speed and coverage.

Products Used

Bold Borders & Fresh Color for a Classic Circle Driveway

This 15-year-old driveway got a much-needed facelift with rich Aztec Brown borders and circular accents. A coat of Goldenrod EasyTint™ added warmth and contrast, bringing the whole surface back to life.

Aztec Brown Portico Paver Stain Accent Detail

Stained concrete driveway design — Driveway design with EasyTint Goldenrod and Portico Aztec Brown stains

Details & Tips

I wanted to give my 15-year-old driveway a facelift, and Direct Colors made it happen.
I stained and sealed the border, circular centerpiece, and half-moon pavers in Aztec Brown Portico Paver Stain, then sealed it all with a high-gloss acrylic sealer. The rest of the driveway got a fresh coat of EasyTint in Goldenrod with a satin finish.
The result? A driveway that looks brand new and has some serious curb appeal.
My only tip? Follow Direct Colors’ instructions! They seriously know what they’re doing.

Direct Colors Products Used:
Portico™ Paver Stain Trial Kit: Cafe Royale, Yukon Gold, Wheat
1 Gal. Aztec Brown DIY Portico™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
5 Gal. Goldenrod EasyTint™ Satin
5 Gal. EasySeal™ Gloss Concrete and Paver Sealer

Other Materials:
Stabilizing sand (beige)

Products Used

DIY Concrete Save: Big Results on a Small Budget

After getting a pricey estimate, this homeowner tackled cracks and fading on their stamped patio themselves—with Aztec Brown and some smart prep. The result? A refreshed look and serious savings.

Before photo of stamped concrete patio showing prominent cracks and faded coloring prior to repair and staining. — Integrally colored stamped concrete patio showing prominent cracks and faded coloring

Patched Stamped Concrete Patio After Applying Aztec Brown Antiquing Stain

Details & Tips

Project Info:

- - Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
  - Estimate of Square Footage: 830 sq. ft.
  - Project Description: We got a quote for $2,300 to repair, stain, and seal our stamped concrete patio. With some effort and help from Direct Colors, we saved well over $1,300 doing it ourselves—and we’re thrilled with how it turned out. We used Direct Colors’ sample kits to test out colors, then went with Aztec Brown Antiquing™ Stain and EasySeal™ Sealer for the final look. The patching compound helped fix up cracks before staining.
  - Personal Tips:
    Order more stain than you think you’ll need—it’s better to have extra than be stuck mid-project waiting on more product.
  - Direct Colors Products Used:
    Antiquing™ Stain Trial Kit: Aztec Brown, Cafe Royale, Driftwood
    5 Gal. Aztec Brown Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

Stamped Patio Makeover with Aztec Brown and Maple EasyTint™

After a short-lived sealer failure, this homeowner brought their patio back to life with Aztec Brown Antiquing™ Stain and a Maple EasyTint™ top coat—this time, built to last.

Stamped concrete patio with faded color and worn sealer before refinishing — Before: The stamped patio’s cheap sealer had worn off within a year

Stamped concrete patio restored with Aztec Brown stain and Maple EasyTint™ sealer, featuring a warm, glossy tone and durable finish — After: Refinished with Aztec Brown and Maple EasyTint™ for lasting color and protection.

Details & Tips

After staining her stamped patio with Aztec Brown Antiquing™ Stain in 2023, this homeowner sealed it using a non-Direct Colors product that wore away in less than a year. Frustrated with the results, she turned to Direct Colors for expert advice.

Following their recommendations, she refreshed the surface with Aztec Brown Antiquing™ Stain to restore depth, then topped it with Maple EasyTint™ Sealer—a tinted, durable top coat that added warmth and long-lasting protection.

Now, the patio not only looks richer than before but is also protected for years to come. Lesson learned: quality products make all the difference!

Customer Tip:
“Don’t cut corners with sealer—it’s what protects all your hard work. Direct Colors sealers are worth every penny.”

Products Used

A Brick Courtyard Revival That’s Blooming With Charm

After decades of fading, this 30+ year-old courtyard got a much-needed refresh. With Aztec Brown and a water-based satin sealer, it now looks beautifully revived—just in time to enjoy those cozy backyard lights.

Before photo of faded brick courtyard with light-colored pavers showing signs of aging and wear. — Faded brick courtyard with light-colored pavers showing signs of aging and wear.

Revitalized brick courtyard stained with Aztec Brown and sealed with a satin finish, surrounded by vibrant landscaping. — Revitalized brick courtyard stained with Portico Aztec Brown and sealed with a satin AcquaSeal finish

Details & Tips

★★★★★ Beautiful outcome

My 30+ year-old brick courtyard was very faded and sad-looking. It now looks fresh and revived, and I absolutely love the outcome!

— Cherri H., Verified Buyer 🇺🇸

Products Used

Driveway & Walkway Done Right with Double Coats

This homeowner took on 1,300 sq. ft. of broom-finished concrete, using Aztec Brown, Terracotta and EasySeal™ for a bold and uniform finish—proving two coats (and the right sprayer tip) really do make a difference.

Large broom-finished concrete driveway stained in Aztec Brown and Terracotta showcasing a rich and even finish. — Broom-finished concrete driveway stained in Aztec Brown and Terracotta

Curved front walkway finished with Aztec Brown stain and sealed in gloss, complementing stone exterior and landscaping. — Curved front walkway finished with Aztec Brown and Terracotta Portico stains

Details & Tips

★★★★☆ Definitely apply two coats as suggested

I ended up spraying and then back rolling with a roller to finish up 1,300 sq. ft. of driveway and sidewalk. The sealer turned out great and does exactly what it’s supposed to.

The tip on my sprayer was too small and didn’t give a good spray pattern for the EasySeal Gloss.

Added Tip:

For best results, we recommend a sprayer tip size between 0.015 and 0.019 when applying EasySeal Gloss.

Overall, I’m happy with the outcome!

Products Used

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How To Use And Love Water-Based Concrete Stains

Where do you stand? From baby steps to giant leaps, the ground beneath our feet constantly supports us as we walk through life. Concrete floors and surfaces are the foundation of our homes, outings, and activities. Concrete is easy to walk all over, which is exactly why it’s important.

Water-based concrete stains make it easy to add beauty and resilience to the concrete we move and groove on every single day.

By Sarah Cicconetti

After 2 - ColorWave - Bedroom - Navy - Blue Spruce - Blue- Gloss

ColorWave – Navy Blue, Blue and Blue Spruce

ColorWave – Navy Blue, Blue and Blue Spruce

A World of Concrete, Floors, and More

Wherever you tread, roll, or run there’s a floor silently bearing your weight. It’s not something we think about very often, but they’re not complaining. Concrete is everywhere, especially in our floors.

With so much of our world built from concrete, it’s not surprising that it’s one of the most supportive, stable, and structurally sound flooring options. Concrete floors are also some of the most widely used. Here are just a few places where you can find concrete, floors, and more in your daily life.

Restored concrete patio stained with Molasses and Mahogany ColorWave

ColorWave – Molasses and Mahogany

ColorWave – Sunset

ColorWave – White

ColorWave – Molasses

Living: Concrete is popular in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, garages, patios, pools, and other residential surfaces because it’s cost-effective and low maintenance.
Shopping: Restaurants, retail stores, warehouses, and factories built with concrete can handle high foot traffic and heavy, easy cleaning.
Showing: Showrooms, vehicle dealerships, and museums have concrete floors for their load-bearing capacity and sleek, visual appeal.
Working: Hotels, lobbies, schools, and universities use concrete for durability and longevity. Plus, concrete floors help regulate indoor temperatures and promote energy efficiency.
Healing: Sealed concrete floors are a hygienic choice for hospitals, clinics, and medical offices to reduce dust and allergens while promoting cleaner, healthier environments.Concrete is durable, affordable, practical, and a very present, powerful force in the real world. This mighty material makes up so many buildings and surfaces, but it’s the versatility of concrete and its ability to take on additives that really make it shine.

What’s In A Name: Concrete + Water-based + Stain

Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, and usually sand and gravel. This fine but grainy mix leaves little pores in poured cement. These tiny holes are the perfect size and space for water-based concrete stains and their colorful pigments to stick to.

Water-based concrete stains deposit colors all the way down into your concrete. They don’t just coat the top of it. The pores in concrete absorb and pull water-based stains deep below the surface. As a water-based concrete stain penetrates into your floors, its colorful pigments go with it. When the water dries out, the colors stay in.

Water-based concrete stains, like ColorWave, rely on the simple process of evaporation. Since there are no harsh chemical reactions, colors are more predictable and uniform. By harnessing the penetrative power of water, colors from these topical stains are more durable and endurable.

All this magic that makes water-based concrete stains an easy, efficient solution for revitalizing concrete floors also makes them deliver some pretty incredible results.

ColorWave - Garage Floor - Iron Gray - After 3

ColorWave – Iron Gray

ColorWave - Barndominium - Persimmon-Molasses-Steel - Leather

ColorWave – Persimmon, Molasses, Steel

Advantages You Want, Results You Can See

Remember, our floors take a lot of wear and tear. That’s their job after all, silent structural support. But just because concrete floors are strong and supportive doesn’t mean they don’t deserve a spruce. Besides, “sprucing up” your floors isn’t just for their benefit and beautification. It’s for yours, too, and here’s why.

Revitalizing your concrete floors improves their aesthetic appeal, adding elegance and personality to your space. Water-based concrete stains are customizable, stylish, and long-lasting. They’re easy to clean and require minimal upkeep. This makes water-based concrete staining an extremely cost-effective flooring solution. It also makes them a smart, fast investment for increasing property value.

Here are a few more smart, fast, and user-friendly features of water-based concrete stains.

Versatility
Water-based concrete stains are unmatched in their ability to create eye-catching visual effects. They’re semi-transparent, which allows the undertone of your concrete to show through. This allows you to layer them and create marbled, mottled designs. Their micronized pigments sink deep and soak evenly into concrete’s pores. They come in 24 vibrant colors, all of which are UV stable so they can be used indoors and outdoors on any type of concrete to make customized designs that match your decor.

Durability
Water-based concrete stains are highly durable. Since the stains penetrate the surface instead of just sitting on top of it, they withstand heavy foot traffic, weather, and daily wear and tear. They have to be properly sealed first, but after that, every family member and furry friend you know or own can crawl, walk, or wag their way across them without worries. A regular sweep or quick mop takes care of cleaning them. So you can save time, money, and stress throughout their long, brightly colored lifespans.

Environmentally Friendly
Water-based concrete stains have zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The lower the VOCs, the less harmful chemicals they release into the air. So lower VOCs contribute to healthier air quality indoors and out. Using low VOC products is better for your family and the environment. This makes water-based concrete stains a safer, more eco-friendly choice. It’s also a brag-worthy benefit for your own environmental responsibility.

Easier Application
There’s no denying that water-based concrete stains are useful and user-friendly. But their most impressive benefit is that they’re easy to use. Since they work with water and evaporation, you can work with them faster and easier. No harmful chemicals, less protective gear, minimal cleanup, and a lot less fuss (and odor!) make for simpler, more enjoyable projects you can complete quicker. With less intimidation and more convenience, water-based concrete stains make for a great first-time DIY.

With one of the simplest, safest, most earth-friendly application processes, water-based concrete stains are fast and fearless. Especially if you start off with a trial kit.

ColorWave – White

Try It With Confidence

Concrete floors are a blank canvas. They’re functional, but on their own are pretty ordinary when it comes to form. Since the pores of concrete are always open, they’re ready and waiting to absorb the pigments of a water-based concrete stain, transforming your concrete canvas into a work of art.

Using a water-based concrete stain like ColorWave makes transformations easy, but it’s still a big commitment. Starting with a trial kit allows you to test different colors and finishes while getting familiar with the application process on a smaller stage.

Whether your concrete is poured, paved, stamped, sunbathing, or subterranean, a trial kit is a simple place to start. (Plus, all our concrete stain colors trial kits have free shipping!)

Trial kits help bring your ideas to the surface. They give you more freedom, more experience, and more options. They come with everything you need to experiment and practice at home. You get to pick three different colors of ColorWave water-based concrete stain and they include foam brushes and a satin or gloss sealer.

ColorWave Stain Trial Kits are the perfect chance for you to mix, match, and master water-based concrete stains. Whether you like sleek and modern, rustic charm, or don’t know which bright, bold, and beautiful foundation you prefer–a trial kit gives you a way to explore whatever strikes your fancy and your feet.

How To Apply It Like A Pro

Anybody can turn their concrete floors into lasting expressions that match their style and space. All it takes is 3 easy steps and a weekend.

1. First The Prep
The first thing you’ll need to do is prep your work surface. That means giving your existing concrete floor a good, thorough cleaning. The best tools for this are a soft bristle deck brush and a cleaner that’s gentle on your floor and the environment, like ProClean Degreaser.

Mops are not your friend here. They tend to spread grime and dirty rinse water across the surface of your floor rather than actually getting rid of it. A soft bristle deck brush will help you remove the dirt and grease from your concrete–not just push it around. Opting for an industrial-strength solvent that’s free from harsh chemicals is the way to go. Those types of chemicals can create negative reactions with your water-based concrete stain and sealer.

Arm yourself with a bottle of ProClean Degreaser concentrate, a pump sprayer, and your soft bristle deck brush. Scrub and rinse as you go. When your concrete is washed and dried, you’ll have a clean slate, primed and ready for staining.

EverStain - Residential Floor (Whole House) - Azure Blue - Coffee Brown - Shifting Sand - Before 3

2. Then The Stain
For this step, the most important thing to remember is that it’s easy!

Water-based concrete stains like ColorWave have small but mighty pigments and a water-based formula powered by evaporation. This makes them the safest, simplest concrete colorants to work with.

Here’s how:

Shake your bottle of ColorWave.
Take all the filters out of your pump sprayer.
Pour in that perfect color you picked.
Then just spray it down how you want to see it.
Apply two thin coats–wet on wet.
You don’t even need to wait for it to dry between coats.

The most common application method is using circular coats that are overlapping. It also helps if you jostle or shake your sprayer back and forth frequently during this step. This ensures that those powerful color pigments are evenly dispersed throughout the stain while you’re applying it.

After the second overlapping layer goes on, the color may not look as vibrant as you were expecting. This is normal. After the sealer goes on, in the last step, it will make your color pop.

If you apply too much water-based concrete stain, you’ll overflood the concrete’s pores. When that happens, your sealer won’t have any concrete pores left to soak into and will stick on the pigments instead. This results in stained concrete floors or surfaces that could chip or flake.

The key to a worry-free water-based stain application is two, thin, overlapping coats. It’s that easy.

3. Never Skip The Sealer
The last step on your path to concrete floor greatness is sealing.

Sealers are a shield between your newly transformed concrete masterpieces and the rest of the world. This strong, impenetrable barrier is your best ally for achieving color perfection and concrete protection.

Sealers lock out moisture, weather, UV, dust, dirt, and the countless steps and stains of daily life. They also lock in and build up the color you chose, adding vibrancy and vitality to your stain.

Once your water-based concrete stain has evaporated and the concrete is completely dry, it’s time to seal:

For a flatter, matte finish try a water-based sealer like AcquaSeal™
For a slightly richer color finish opt for a solvent-based sealer like EasySeal™
Or you can explore all the best concrete sealer options from indoor to outdoor use and gloss to satin finishes.

Sealing, like staining, needs two, thin coats. When you’re sealing though, do each coat one at a time. Sealers have to be completely dry between applications and before you walk on them. It will take at least 8-12 hours for each layer to dry. The longer you wait, the better your final results will be.

No matter which type of sealer you choose, it will harden as it cures. This tough top layer protects the floor beneath your feet from scuffs, scratches, and spills. Outdoor concrete sealers also help prevent damage from freeze-thaw cycles and the elements.

Overall, sealers extend the life of your concrete color while making it easier to maintain, clean, and keep looking pristine for years to come. This is not a step that you or your beautifully revitalized concrete floors want to skip.

Before Sealer & After Sealer

A World Of Colored Concrete

Water-based concrete stains are powered by pigments, evaporation, and the natural pores in concrete. They’re the easiest way to color the concrete in your world. From bright white to evocative greens like ivy and avocado to the warm, welcome of molasses and nature-inspired neutrals, blues, and sunset shades, there’s a hue just right for you.

With its eco-friendly, water-based formula and straightforward application, ColorWave is what you need and your concrete floors (and surfaces) want.

No matter where you stand, make every step stunning and sustainable with ColorWave water-based concrete stain only from DirectColors.com.

Enter The DIY Contest and Win!

The Coffee Brown EverStain™ Collection

Check out how our customers turned their regular concrete into something special with this easy-to-use Coffee Brown EverStain™ acid stain. You’ll find before-and-after pics, handy tips, and maybe even the spark for your own project.

By Justin Richardson

Target Zone Upgrade

Unfinished concrete floor of an axe-throwing bar before staining — Pre-transformation look of the basic, raw concrete floor

Brown acid stained concrete floor in an axe-throwing bar — The floor now sports a rich brown acid stain with a glossy finish, enhancing the venue's look.

Check out how this axe-throwing bar floor went from plain to awesome. With EverStain™ Coffee Brown, it now sports a cool leather-like finish that really brings the game area to life.

Products Used

1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher — CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher

Please be aware that each photo in this gallery showcases projects accomplished with our EverStain™ Acid Stain and is provided by actual customers, serving as a source of inspiration. However, since EverStain™ is semi-transparent, the final appearance of your project will be influenced by the initial color and condition of your concrete surface, and thus, your final results might vary. For the best results, we strongly recommend performing a small test on your specific surface before applying the stain to the entire project to ensure the final look aligns with your expectations.

Rec Room Reimagined: A Cozy Upgrade

Take a look at the before-and-after transformation of a recreational basement area using a two-tone acid stain layering technique. By applying two acid stain colors in a wet-on-wet process, this project turned a basic concrete surface into a richly stained, dynamic floor. The result enhances both the aesthetics and functionality of the space.

Unfinished basement space before transformation, showing bare concrete floors and exposed utilities. — Original state of the basement, prepped for renovation with exposed concrete floors

Renovated recreational room featuring an acid stained concrete floor, pool table, dartboard, and wall-mounted deer heads. — The rec room now sports a rich brown, acid stained concrete floor, enhancing the cozy, game-ready atmosphere.

Applying EverStain™ Coffee Brown acid stain to a concrete floor in a rec room, showing a wet, shiny surface. — The rec room floor during the staining process, with EverStain™ Coffee Brown & Malayan Buff acid stain colors

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 560 sq. ft.
Project Description:
This was a staining of the basement in my personal home. Unfinished concrete poured in 1973 by the previous owner. It turned out beautiful and I’ve completed several other projects for friends who have seen my work.
Personal Tips:
Have a place to stay for a few days, the fumes were extremely bad due to the lack of windows and circulating air.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

EverStain™ Malayan Buff Acid Stain Color — EverStain™ Malayan Buff

Ready to Stain? How to Water Test your Concrete Before Staining

Flooded Carpet? Transform your floors with decorative concrete!

Shed House Chic: A Stunning Floor Revamp

Take a look at this shed house transformation where we turned a plain concrete floor into a standout feature with a rich EverStain™ Coffee Brown stain. It’s a great way to make a space feel new without breaking the bank.

New shed house with plain concrete floors before staining

Application of EverStain™ Coffee Brown on shed house concrete floor, mid-process — Midway through the staining process, the shed house floor begins to show the rich, variegated tones of EverStain™ Coffee Brown

Checking the depth of color on a concrete floor by wetting the surface during the staining process. — Testing the depth of color of the Coffee Brown acid stain by wetting the surface, ensuring the desired hue is achieved before neutralizing the stain.

Fully stained shed house interior with kitchen and a dog, showcasing brown acid stained concrete floors. — The staining project completes, revealing rich brown floors that complement the shed house's spacious interior and new kitchen.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 2000 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We are building a new shed house & decided to stain our own floors! We absolutely love the look of our floors!! After all the hard work it has been a beautiful touch to our home!
Personal Tips:
Thin coats of sealer!
Direct Colors Products Used:
2 x g Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Mega Bundles
5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

DIY Faux-Tile Triumph with Coffee Brown EverStain™

Check out how one of our savvy DIYers achieved a stylish faux-tile look on their concrete floor. Armed with Coffee Brown EverStain™, a good deal of patience, and Gorilla Duct Tape, they crafted a striking design that really stands out. Discover their tips and tricks and get inspired for your own project.

A chalk line being used to map out the future tile design on the concrete floor — Laying out the faux wood tile design using a chalk line

Concrete floor with duct tape neatly arranged following the chalked tile pattern — Duct tape outlining the tile pattern - prep work makes all the difference!

Applying Coffee Brown EverStain™ to the taped-off concrete floor — Rolling on the Coffee Brown EverStain™ acid stain

Freshly stained concrete floor in tile design, awaiting to dry — Stain's on and it's time to wait. Patience is key!

Revealing clean, crisp lines after removing the tape from the stained concrete floor — Tape's off, and look at those clean lines! Proof that good prep pays off.

Final look of the faux-tile floor after applying two layers of sealer — After two coats of sealer, the finished floor shines. The faux-wood tile illusion is complete!

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 144 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I started out consulting Ashli (my wife) on what size tile look we wanted. It was between 6×24 and 8×24, we ended up doing 8×24 so save us from having to do more lines, which brings me to the lines. Ashli and I had a science experiment with tape and which wouldn’t bleed through the stain under the tape, we tried 4 different types of tape and ended up on gorilla duct tape. I cut it down to ¼ in the best I could. I measured out and chalked lines and we laid the tape down in the tile design. I used our coffee brown stain and went to town, staying up till 1 am due to having to neutralize the acid stain and clean it. Pulling up the tape was the most satisfying part due to being able to see no bleed through and all mostly crisp lines. I decided to leave the lines the natural concrete color so it would offset the dark brown well. After the second of sealer last night I can say I’m really happy how this came out!
Personal Tips:
Test test test, use a inconspicuous area to find out if you can do what you want. Take your time, and don’t wipe with straight lines, go in circles.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss

Products Used

New Build Makeover: Wood-look Patios

Are you looking for a unique and stunning way to enhance your new construction wood plank stamped concrete patios? Concrete acid staining may be just what you need!

Stamped concrete patio with a wood plank design during staining — Coffee Brown acid stain being applied to bring out the wood-like texture

Stamped concrete patio with a wood plank pattern — Freshly stamped concrete mimicking wood planks

Stamped concrete patio sealed with a rich wood plank finish

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
New construction stamped concrete front and back patio
Personal Tips:
We used a push broom to get the sealer into the cracks
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
5 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

Pool Deck Revival: A DIY Stamped Concrete Makeover

This DIYer gave their faded stamped concrete pool deck a fresh new life. They used Coffee Brown EverStain™ acid stain to bring back color and added a high gloss finish for shine. To keep it safe and prevent slipping, they mixed in an Anti-Slip Additive.

Refreshed stamped concrete pool deck with a Coffee Brown stain — The pool deck now displays a vibrant Coffee Brown finish, enhancing the detailed stamped design and revitalizing the outdoor space

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A Concrete Driveway Makeover: Neutral Tones Meet Bold Design

Not wanting to have a traditional driveway extension like their neighbors, our customers chose Malayan Buff and Coffee Brown acid stain and satin EasySeal™ . The extension actually sat unstained for about a year after installation before they decided to stain it! Finally, they were able to achieve the neutral look that they were aiming for with two acid stain colors.

Concrete driveway extension before acid staining — The concrete driveway extension, designed as an alternative to traditional pavers, awaited staining for over a year

Initial staining of the driveway with Malayan Buff EverStain — First round of staining with Malayan Buff and Coffee Brown to achieve a neutral look that matches the home's exterior

Adding more Coffee Brown accents to the driveway extension — Additional Coffee Brown accents were applied to deepen the initial Malayan Buff stain

Driveway extension after additional Coffee Brown staining — Completed driveway extension stained with Malayan Buff and a heavier coat of Coffee Brown.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My husband designed and installed a full concrete extension to the driveway because we did not want to go the traditional paver extension route that many of our neighbors do. It sat in its finished but unstained state for over a year before we finally decided to stain it! We knew we wanted a neutral look that wouldn’t argue with the exterior colors of the house, but that also wouldn’t clash with the cool-toned “blue” of the driveway pavers.
After two rounds of trial kits to find the best color for our project, we originally decided that we would want to lay an all-over stain of Malayan Buff, with accents of Coffee Brown. Once things began to dry, however, we thought it needed to be darker. So we went through with another (heavier) coat of Coffee Brown to achieve the look we were hoping for!
Finally after a few days of coating and dry time, we were able to seal and use!
Personal Tips:
1. Definitely take the time and money to invest in a trial kit. You will want to see the colors in person and in their final state, and how the colors will compliment the surroundings.
2. When using a pump-deck sprayer, be sure to begin each spray/trigger-pull off your project to avoid splatter marks. And use small circular motions to help diffuse any areas that appear too concentrated as you are applying.
3. Use a two-man team if you can! Depending on your project, or look, it will be a lot easier to have one person laying down the base color while the second person is following with an accent color.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
Other Products Used:
Gloves
Respirator mask
Eye protection

Products Used

Patio Refresh: Old Meets New

Transforming a round patio with a firepit can seem like a daunting task, especially when trying to blend new and old concrete seamlessly. However, using Coffee Brown and Black acid stains can help achieve a unique and stunning look, while also unifying the old broomed concrete and new concrete add-on.

Initial view of the patio before staining, showing new concrete next to 25-year-old concrete

Concrete patio during the staining process with tools and supplies like sprayers and buckets — Concrete patio during the staining process with Black and Coffee Brown acid stain colors

Staining underway to unify new and old concrete, with Coffee Brown EverStain application

Concrete patio showing the first coat of sealer application with a pump sprayer — First sealing coat being applied with a pump sprayer

Concrete patio during the second coat of sealer application with a nap roller — Second sealing coat applied with a nap roller, ensuring a durable and even finish across the mixed-age concrete

Fully stained and sealed circular patio complete with a dark, rich color, integrating with the lawn and outdoor setting — Finished patio project showing new and 25-year-old concrete, now matching and refreshed with rich Coffee Brown

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 250 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Small patio with 6 month old add on concrete and 25 year old concrete.
Personal Tips:
Sun dries the stain out fast
Use the spiked shoes
Direct Colors Products Used
1 Gal. Black DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

Garage Floor: A Simple DIY Transformation

Looking to add some style and character to your garage? This simple DIY project can transform your dull and boring garage floor into a stunning and functional space using coffee brown acid stain . For more ideas on how to upgrade your garage with concrete stain, check out our gallery.

Garage floor after the first coat of EasySeal on Coffee Brown stain. — After the initial coat of EasySeal, bringing out the depth of the Coffee Brown stain.

Finished Coffee Brown acid stained concrete floor in garage after second EasySeal coat — Final look of the garage floor, now fully protected with a second coat of EasySeal, emphasizing the depth of the Coffee Brown acid stain

Concrete garage floor after neutralizing and rinsing Coffee Brown EverStain acid stain — The garage floor is shown post-neutralization

Application of EasySeal on Coffee Brown stained concrete garage floor — Applying the first coat of EasySeal to enhance and protect the acid stained concrete garage floor.

Products Used

Enter The DIY Contest and Win!

Gray-Based Concrete Pigment Color Chart

Direct Colors Concrete Pigment Color Charts are designed to provide a close approximation of what our customers can expect achieve in gray concrete. For custom pours such as countertop mixes, plaster, stucco, grout and other cement-based products, when adjusted properly for specific job requirements, the colors vary within an acceptable range for most of our customers.

Concrete pigment color samples were casted using Gray Portland Cement mixed with Direct Colors powder pigment and sealed with a satin sealer.

WHITE-BASED CONCRETE PIGMENT COLOR CHART

CONCRETE PIGMENT POWDER COLORS

Actual Pigment Photos for More Accurate Color Selection

Iron Oxide Concrete Pigment Colors

DCI Premium Blue, Green and White Concrete Pigment Colors

Gray-Based Concrete Pigment Color Chart

Concrete pigment color samples were casted using Gray Portland Cement mixed with Direct Colors powder pigment and sealed with a satin sealer.

WHITE-BASED CONCRETE PIGMENT COLOR CHART

Milano Red: A Gallery of DIY Concrete Staining Projects

Front porch and walkway stained pavers with a stylish combination of Milano Red EasyTint and Charcoal EasyTint for edge detail. The red stain provides a warm and welcoming tone to the space, while the charcoal edge design adds a clean and modern contrast.

Are you looking for a cost-effective way to upgrade your outdoor living space? Look no further than concrete staining! With a wide range of colors and finishes available, staining your concrete can transform a drab surface into a stunning feature that adds value to your home. In this gallery, we showcase the versatile beauty of Milano Red concrete stain, featuring a variety of DIY projects completed by homeowners just like you. From stamped concrete to concrete pavers, broomed concrete to scored concrete, these projects demonstrate the endless possibilities of concrete staining. Get inspired by the tips and photos shared by fellow DIY enthusiasts and take the first step in transforming your own concrete surface!

Boring Brick Pavers are in the Past

Brick pavers of the driveway and front porch stained with Milano Red EasyTint and edged with sleek Charcoal EasyTint for added detail. The red stain has revitalized the pavers, enhancing their texture and pattern for added visual interest. The charcoal edge design provides a clean and modern contrast, creating a stunning and impressive entrance to the property that is sure to turn heads

Before photo of a drab driveway — The drab and faded driveway before the transformation

Pool deck made of stained pavers with a rich and vibrant Milano Red EasyTint finish — The Milano Red stain has transformed the pool area into an inviting and luxurious space, with a bold color that complements the water and surrounding landscaping.

Milano Red EasyTint stained brick paver driveway with a sleek charcoal edge design — Milano Red EasyTint™ stained brick paver driveway with a sleek charcoal edge design

Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

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Varied Antiquing Stains Transform Concrete Patio into Warm and Inviting Space

Scored concrete patio with a unique combination of Driftwood, Pumpkin and Milano Red concrete stains. The stains have been carefully applied to create a variegated and natural look, with warm and earthy tones that complement the surrounding landscaping. The scoring adds texture and depth to the surface, resulting in a stunning and inviting outdoor space that is perfect for entertaining or relaxing.

For more concrete stained patio ideas, head over to “Stained Concrete Patio Ideas: Before And Afters, Tips, And Customer Stories“.

A vibrant scored concrete patio stained with a mix of Milano Red, Driftwood, and Pumpkin Antiquing concrete stains, complemented by eye-catching red wooden patio chairs, a vivid yellow table, torches, and string lights for a lively outdoor atmosphere. — A lively outdoor haven: Scored concrete patio enhanced by a colorful blend of Milano Red, Driftwood, and Pumpkin Antiquing stains, paired with vivid red chairs and a contrasting yellow table.

Stained Concrete Patio — Backyard patio stained with milano red, driftwood and pumpkin Antiquing color stains

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Revitalize Faded Concrete Paver Pool Coping

Faded concrete paver pool coping revitalized with Milano Red Portico Stains. The stains have transformed the pool area into a vibrant and inviting space, with a bold color that complements the water and surrounding landscaping. The pavers themselves have been revitalized, with the stain enhancing their natural texture and pattern for added depth and visual interest. The result is a stunning and inviting pool area that is sure to impress.

If you’re looking to choose the best stain for your pool concrete deck, check out our comprehensive guide titled “How To Choose The Best Pool Concrete Deck Stain“.

Pool Pavers Restored with Direct Colors Milano Red Portico Stain

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Unique Stain Combinations Transform Stamped Concrete Pool Deck and Coping into Stunning Features

Stamped concrete pool deck with a warm and inviting Milano Red Antiquing stain and stamped concrete pool coping with a Tweed Antiquing stain. The combination of stains has transformed the pool area into a stunning and unique space, with rich and earthy tones that complement the surrounding features. The stamped concrete textures have been enhanced by the stains, resulting in a beautiful and inviting pool area that is perfect for relaxation and entertainment.

Wet Concrete Pool Deck Stain — Previously colored concrete pool deck stained with a combination of Milano Red and Tweed Antiquing stains.

Milano Red Re-stained Concrete Pool Deck — Previously colored concrete pool deck stained with Milano Red and Tweed Antiquing stains. The combination of stains has revitalized the pool area, creating a warm and inviting space,

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Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

Striking Stain Combination Enhances Concrete Driveway with Modern Design Features

Concrete driveway stained with Charcoal Antiquing stain, with a frame edge paver detail stained with Milano Red Portico Stain. The combination of stains creates a striking and modern design, with the charcoal providing a sleek contrast to the warm and inviting red. The paver detail has been carefully stained to add texture and depth to the overall design, resulting in a stunning and impressive entrance to the property.

Looking for more concrete stained driveway ideas? Check out our gallery, how-to guide, and staining tips at “Stained Concrete Driveway: Gallery, How-To Guide, And Staining Tips“.

Milano Red and Charcoal Stained Concrete Paver Driveway

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Crimson Antiquing Stained Stamped Concrete Patio

Crimson Red Stained Concrete Gallery

Crimson red stained concrete paver driveway with a satin finish

Crimson red stained concrete paver driveway with a smooth and glossy finish. — The deep red color of the stain is complemented by the natural variations and textures of the concrete pavers, creating a striking and unique design.

View Products Used

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

Looking for more inspiration to elevate the look of your driveway? Check out our Stained Concrete Driveway gallery, complete with a how-to guide and expert staining tips. Discover the endless possibilities of stained concrete and transform your driveway into a stunning and unique design element.

Designing a Unique Paver Border: Enhancing A Concrete Paver Patio with Two Stained Colors

Give your concrete paver patio a unique paver border design using two contrasting Portico™ Paver Stain colors: crimson and eagle gray. Our customer created a visually striking contrast, giving the patio an elegant touch while increasing its durability. This project is perfect for homeowners looking to add visual interest to their patio, with a little work and inspiration, you can make your outdoor space beautiful and inviting.

Faded concrete paver patio — Faded 15 year old concrete paver patio

Taping edge to avoid overspray — Tape edge to avoid overspray

stained concrete paver edging — Eagle Gray Portico stain color application with foam brush and roller

border stained with Eagle Gray Portico paver stain — After Crimson and Eagle Gray Portico

Concrete paver patio renovation — Crimson, eagle gray Portico and EasySeal satin

Concrete paver walkway design with paver border

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

View Products

Reviving Stamped Concrete: Our DIY Journey with Antiquing Stain for a Glossy and Solid Color Approach

Looking to add depth and character to their stamped concrete, a DIY enthusiast turned to crimson red Antiquing™ stain. The solid color approach and glossy finish of the red stained concrete transformed the once-dull stamped area into a stunning and eye-catching design element.

Crimson Antiquing Stain Application Stamped Concrete Patio — Applying Antiquing Stain Edging with Foam Roller

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 225 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My patio has some 35 year old redwood furniture that I decided to refinish which I did. Using Cabot’s wood finish and I sanded it down. After finishing noticing the gray concrete did not help appearance and I had bought some gel acid stain from direct colors pre-pandemic and never used them. Ended up getting Everstain Acid stain we 3 gallons of acid stain with neutralizer and sealant. I used some shoes with spikes and applied as directed by web site using a sprayer. Following advice of outlining the sections with the lighter color then using the Malayan buff filling in between the desert amber, then streaked it with the antique red to add dimension and almost create a look like grain in wood. I let it dry overnight to get maximum paint absorption then got it damp with light water and brushed with large broom. I then applied the sealant in 2 coats. The first coat was rolled on and the second was sprayed on. The most difficult part of project was moving the furniture off and back on patio. The prep work has to be done with power washing and taping up the sides of the house.
Personal Tips:
If you are going to spray use wide tape to block off things that you don’t want sprayed. I used 1 inch, probably should use wider if the wind catches it you got it on your house.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. English Red EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit

View Products Used

EverStain™ English Red Acid Stain Color — EverStain™ English Red

Revitalizing Faded Brick Patio with Crimson Red Stained Concrete Pavers: A DIY Success Story

Looking to revitalize their faded brick patio, a DIY enthusiast discovered the beauty of stained concrete pavers and transformed their patio with crimson Portico paver stain and an EasySeal satin sealer.

Old faded concrete patio pavers — Faded 30 year old concrete patio pavers

stained concrete patio pavers — After one coat of EasySeal satin sealer

Crimson red concrete patio paver stain — Portico Crimson and EasySeal satin sealer

For Project Details & Tips

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DIY Brick Paver Patio Rehab: Reviving a Tired Patio with Paver Stains

Get ready to upgrade your dull, outdated brick paver patio to a stunning retreat! This project chronicles the homeowner’s journey of tackling the project themselves, after getting unreasonable quotes from companies, and revamping their patio using Direct Color’s products. It’s a fun, cost-effective way of giving your backyard the makeover it deserves!

Crimson Portico Stain on Patio Concrete Pavers

For Project Details & Tips

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Boring Brick Pavers Are In The Past

These brick pavers underwent an impressive transformation when our customer decided to stain them. Our acrylic sealer sealed the deal (literally). We think that the red concrete stain really dresses up this once drab driveway!

Crimson Portico Stain on Driveway Concrete Pavers

Crimson Portico Stain on Walkway Concrete Pavers

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

View Products

Transforming Neglected Stamped Concrete Patio: My DIY Journey to a Stunning and Budget-Friendly Refinish

After years of neglect, a DIY enthusiast decided to breathe new life into their worn-out stamped concrete patio. They opted to use crimson red stained concrete to achieve a beautiful and inviting outdoor living space on a budget.

Faded Stamped Patio - Before Antiquing Crimson — Before

Crimson Stained Stamped Concrete Patio — After

For Project Details & Tips

View Products Used

For additional inspiration on stained pavers, check out “Stained Concrete Pavers: Transform Your Outdoor Space With Before and After Inspiration”.

Revitalizing a 16-Year-Old Concrete Paver Driveway on a Budget

Discover how one retired homeowner was able to revive their 16-year-old concrete paver driveway on a budget using ColorWave water-based stain. Without any prior experience, the homeowner was able to repair and rejuvenate their driveway to look like new and even impressed their neighbors with the final results. This project is perfect for any homeowner looking to save money and breathe new life into their concrete paver driveway.

Rust ColorWave on Concrete Pavers Driveway

Restored Stamped Concrete Paver Driveway — Restored concrete paver driveway with Rust ColorWave stain

For Project Details & Tips

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DIY Hand-Stained Cement Tiles: My Journey with EasyTint Tinted Sealer for Great Colors and Easy Application

Looking for an easy and effective way to add color and protection to your hand-stained cement tiles? One DIY enthusiast found success with EasyTint tinted sealer. By using this product on their self-poured cement tiles, they achieved great colors and a durable finish.

Beautifully hand-stained cement tiles poured and created by a DIY enthusiast using EasyTint Yukon Gold, Crimson and Pumpkin

Revitalizing Weather Worn Concrete Pavers: A DIY Project with Crimson Red and Fern Green Stains

Are you tired of the dull and lifeless appearance of your weather-worn concrete pavers? One DIY enthusiast was in the same situation until they decided to take matters into their own hands. They set out on a DIY project to revitalize their walkway using crimson red and fern green stains

Stunning walkway featuring crimson red stained concrete pavers and fern green stained concrete pavers used to frame the walkway. The combination of colors creates a striking contrast and unique design element for a captivating and inviting entrance to the home.

View Products Used

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

View Products Used

Crimson Comeback: A Front Entrance Facelift

Witness the power of a pint as we revitalized our faded front entrance with just a quart of Crimson Portico stain. Top it off with an EasySeal satin finish, and voila! We’ve turned a lackluster walkway into a vibrant welcome mat. It’s proof that a little color goes a long way!

From Cotton Candy Mishap to Crimson Triumph: Our Back Porch Revamp

We are very pleased with this product!! We extended our back porch and added “Barn Red” concrete coloring to our concrete truck and after curing, it was light pink!!! Not happy about this and ordered the EasyTint in Crimson Red hoping to correct the awful pink! It did the job and came out beautiful, as seen in before and after pictures! Highly recommend these products, not mention, an awesome home state company for us here in Oklahoma!! Thank you!! For DIY’ers, don’t waste your money on adding color to your concrete before pouring, just use these products after the pour for perfect results!

A split before-and-after image showing the transformation of a concrete porch. — The 'before' side reveals a light pink surface, while the 'after' side showcases a vibrant crimson red porch, the result of applying EasyTint Gloss in Crimson

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Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

View Products

Driftwood Concrete Stain Gallery

By Justin Richardson

Dive into our gallery of Driftwood Concrete Stain projects. From patios to interiors, discover how this versatile color upgrades any space. Get inspired for your next DIY concrete staining project!

Wood Plank Illusion: Driftwood Stain on Stamped Concrete Patios

King Sealing, LLC, masterfully transformed two small patios with a wood plank stamp, using our Driftwood Antiquing™ Stain and Satin EasySeal™ to create an authentic wood appearance. This project exemplifies precision and attention to detail, offering a durable yet elegant outdoor enhancement.

Before staining: View of a stamped concrete patio designed to mimic wood planks — Stamped concrete ready for the Driftwood Antiquing Stain to create a natural wood look

After staining: Stamped concrete patio finished with Driftwood stain to resemble wood planks. — Our Driftwood Antiquing Stain in action, turning concrete into classic wood planks with Satin EasySeal for a perfect finish

Front Porch and Patio Transformation

See how a tired-looking porch and patio get a fresh, new look with our Driftwood Antiquing™ Stain. The pictures show the change from old to new. Remember, cleaning the area and removing old coating is important for a smooth result. You too can make your outdoor areas look great with our products!

First coat of driftwood Antiquing™ stain on faded stamped concrete patio

Second coat of Driftwood Antiquing Stain — Second coat of driftwood Antiquing stain

Sealed Driftwood Antiquing stain on previously faded stamped concrete patio

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

Products Used

Renewing a Weathered Patio with Driftwood Antiquing™ Stain

See how a patio, battered by Colorado weather, is transformed into a stunning space using our Driftwood Stamped Concrete Antiquing™ Stain. Pitted areas were repaired using a patching compound and pigment, before applying the stain with a sprayer and sealing it for a vibrant finish. Remember, it’s all about the right pressure when sanding and rolling. Patience and technique turned a worn-out patio into a brand-new marvel!

Back Porch Concrete Stain Makeover with Antiquing Stain

Recolored faded integrally colored stamped concrete patio with driftwood Antiquing stain

Brown Stained Stamped Concrete Patio - Driftwood Antiquing Stain — After: From a pitted and faded surface to a vibrant, rejuvenated space

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

Products Used

Reviving a Stamped Concrete Driveway Pad with Driftwood and Cafe Royale Antiquing™ Stain

Discover the transformation journey of a sun-beaten, overlay stamped concrete driveway pad. Our customers refreshed their driveway, along with their compass rose imprint, using Cafe Royale with Aztec Brown accents and a touch of Crimson, Wheat, and Black for the compass. The result was simply stunning. Key advice: apply several generous layers of stain and don’t shy away from sealing.

A sun-faded, stamped concrete driveway with a worn-out compass rose imprint — Before: A weathered driveway yearning for a refresh, its compass rose imprint barely discernible

The faded stamped compass rose on the concrete driveway, barely visible due to weathering — Before: The faded compass rose, a symbol of home, in need of revitalization

The refreshed driveway post application of Driftwood and Cafe Royale stain, showing a vibrant, renewed surface — After: Driveway transformed! The vibrant tones of Driftwood and Cafe Royale breathe new life into the space.

The freshly stained compass rose on the driveway, vivid and attractive with the new hues of Aztec Brown, Crimson, Wheat, and Black — After: The compass rose, reimagined. Fresh, vibrant colors restore its charm, pointing the way to North West Blvd

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 225 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My patio has some 35 year old redwood furniture that I decided to refinish which I did. Using Cabot’s wood finish and I sanded it down. After finishing noticing the gray concrete did not help appearance and I had bought some gel acid stain from direct colors pre-pandemic and never used them. Ended up getting Everstain Acid stain we 3 gallons of acid stain with neutralizer and sealant. I used some shoes with spikes and applied as directed by web site using a sprayer. Following advice of outlining the sections with the lighter color then using the Malayan buff filling in between the desert amber, then streaked it with the antique red to add dimension and almost create a look like grain in wood. I let it dry overnight to get maximum paint absorption then got it damp with light water and brushed with large broom. I then applied the sealant in 2 coats. The first coat was rolled on and the second was sprayed on. The most difficult part of project was moving the furniture off and back on patio. The prep work has to be done with power washing and taping up the sides of the house.
Personal Tips:
If you are going to spray use wide tape to block off things that you don’t want sprayed. I used 1 inch, probably should use wider if the wind catches it you got it on your house.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. English Red EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit

Products Used

Reviving a Backyard Patio with Driftwood Antiquing™ Stain

See how a backyard patio was effortlessly restored to its former glory with our Driftwood Antiquing™ Stain. The process was straightforward and fun, delivering results that make the patio shine like new. Remember: wear spiked sandals post-antiquing to prevent footprints and don an N95 mask while applying sealer to avoid inhaling heavy fumes.

A faded stamped concrete backyard patio, clearly in need of rejuvenation — Before: A once vibrant backyard patio showing signs of wear and tear

Backyard patio displaying fresh Driftwood Antiquing Stain, pre-sealer application — After Staining: The patio now boasts a vibrant Driftwood hue, ready for the sealer to lock in the color

Backyard patio after sealer application, showcasing an enhanced color depth and a glossy finish — After Sealing: With the sealer applied, the patio’s color deepens, its appearance now both fresh and rich

Another view of the sealed patio, highlighting the remarkable transformation. — The Final Result: A second look at the revitalized patio, proof of the dramatic transformation a little stain and sealer can make

Details & Tips

Products Used

Enhancing a Broomed-Finish Pole Barn Patio with Driftwood Antiquing™ Stain

Discover how a customer transformed their broomed-finish front porch of a pole barn using our Driftwood Antiquing™ Stain. The stain accentuates a rustic and industrial charm that harmonizes perfectly with the pole barn’s unique character. This is a compelling example of how our stain can adapt to and amplify the vibe of any given space. For a deep dive into this project’s details and step-by-step process, don’t forget to visit our blog.

A bare outdoor space with unfinished concrete — An outdoor canvas of bare, unfinished concrete, ready for transformation

The same outdoor area post application of driftwood concrete stain, showcasing a broomed finish — The driftwood concrete stain adds a rustic touch, enhancing the broomed finish

he revitalized space furnished with outdoor furniture, showcasing the enhanced broomed concrete finish — Outdoor Living: Furnished and enhanced, the broomed-finish patio becomes an inviting outdoor retreat

The outdoor area in the evening, adorned with string lights and cozy furniture, on a backdrop of broomed finish concrete — Enchanted Evenings: Bask in the warm glow of string lights, cozy furniture, and the rustic appeal of the broomed finish concrete

Products Used

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 180 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 40 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We wanted to upgrade the kitchen in our ‘Hunting Camp’/seasonal home, and decided to create our own concrete countertops. Through much trial and error, testing of concrete and colors, we are finally done! Many of our test pieces have become park bench for ourselves and our friends.
Included are before, during and after pictures, plus one of the first park benches.
For the countertops, we used acid stain in Coffee Brown, Desert Amber and Seagrass. Through the testing, I learned to go easy on the Coffee Brown and to not be afraid of the Seagrass! I also learned to ‘just walk away’ and let the acid stain do its thing without overdoing it.
We love the final outcome and want to thank Direct Colors for their continued help and urgent assistance at each step along the way! Your customer service is top notch!
Personal Tips:
I would recommend doing small test pieces before a big project to figure out what color combinations and techniques you like. It is so important to know that, to a very large degree, you cannot control the final outcome, but with research, practice, and patience, anyone can do this.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™

Resurrecting a Stamped Concrete Entryway with Driftwood Antiquing™ Stain

Take a look at how a neglected 2000 sq ft stamped concrete entryway gets a makeover with our Driftwood Stamped Concrete Antiquing™ Stain. Despite initial unevenness due to exposure and damage, careful pressure washing and multiple stain and sealer coats revived its looks. The key to success? Patience, cleanliness, and letting the roller do its magic. The transformation took three days but was worth every moment!

stained stamped concrete walkway entry — After 3 light coats of Driftwood Antiquing stain and Easyseal satin sealer

resurfacing stamped concrete walkway entry

antiquing-driftwood-stamped-concrete-walkway-entry-dog-pet

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

Products Used

Revitalizing a Faded Stamped Concrete Pool Deck with Antiquing™ Stain

Dive into this transformation of an 800 sq. ft. faded stamped concrete pool deck, brought back to life using our Driftwood and Cumin Antiquing™ Stains. While the process took longer due to the concrete’s high porosity and old sealer removal, the end result was a stunning poolside oasis. Key tips: Ensure accurate measurements, stock up on extra sealer for porous surfaces, and avoid old sealer stripping if possible.

Before photo of a faded stamped concrete pool deck — Faded stamped concrete pool deck

A Poolside Masterpiece: The elegant transformation of the once-drab stamped concrete pool deck, now adorned with a sophisticated stain and sealed for lasting beauty and safety — A Poolside Masterpiece: The elegant transformation of the once-drab stamped concrete pool deck, now adorned with a sophisticated stain design and sealed for lasting beauty and safety

Details & Tips

Products Used

Multi-Colored Paver Driveway Transformation with Portico™ Paver Stains

Explore this impressive project where a customer brought their paver driveway to life with a mix of five different Portico™ paver stain colors: Driftwood, Aztec Brown, Khaki, Terracotta, and Yukon Gold. Each paver was individually stained and edged with Driftwood. The final touch? A gloss EasySeal™ to bring out the vibrant hues. The striking result? A driveway that mirrors the color palette of the porch.

staining concrete pavers: before staining, applying stain, finished stained pavers, and sealed

A faded, lackluster paver driveway in need of a color refresh — Before: An uninspiring paver driveway yearning for a colorful makeover

Multicolored paver driveway with Aztec Brown, Driftwood, Khaki, Yukon Gold and Terracotta concrete stains — A vibrant, multi-colored paver driveway after staining with five different colors and sealing

Products Used

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

Hexagonal Harmony: Stained Pavers in a Circular Patio Design

Showcasing a meticulous arrangement of hexagonal pavers stained in varying shades of Driftwood, this circular patio beautifully complements the surrounding greenery and offers a unique, artistic outdoor setting

Hexagonal concrete pavers in shades of brown and tan, forming a unique garden path — Intricate Pathway: Custom-colored hexagonal pavers guide you through a vibrant garden

Workers applying finishing touches to stained hexagonal concrete pavers in a garden — Craftsmanship in Action: Applying the final stain touches to enhance the rich tones of the pavers

Close-up of a wet circular patio design with hexagonal pavers stained in Driftwood and Yukon Gold — Freshly Stained Elegance: The Driftwood and Yukon Gold EasyTint finish glistens on hexagonal pavers, emphasizing their geometric beauty

Completed circular patio with Driftwood and Yukon Gold stained hexagonal pavers surrounded by lush landscaping. — Outdoor Oasis: Completed circular patio showcasing Driftwood and Yukon Gold EasyTint stained pavers, perfectly blending with nature

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Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

Converting a Plain Basement into a Kids’ Playroom with Driftwood AcquaTint™

Explore how a simple basement was transformed into a fun-filled playroom for kids using our Driftwood Aquatint™ and ProWax Polish™. The key to a great outcome is all in the preparation: always etch and clean your floors prior to staining.

After first coat of driftwood AcquaTint colored sealer

Cozy basement transformation with the floor stained in a warm Driftwood shade from AcquaTint™, complemented by a subtle satin sheen from ProWax Polish™ — After: A serene transformation. Our basement now exudes a warm, inviting ambiance, perfect for quiet play and relaxation

Bare basement space with plain walls and a raw concrete floor. — Before: Our untouched basement—full of potential

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

Products Used

Dyed Interior Concrete Isn’t That Crazy!

Concrete floors are an excellent alternative to your typical wood floors or carpeting in the living room.

With that being said, we admire how this DIYer used concrete dye to add color to their living room floor. Not only does it create a warm atmosphere, but it’s easy to maintain and looks great!

Driftwood Vibrance Concrete Floor — Driftwood Vibrance on Concrete Floor

Products Used

Pretty ‘N’ Polished Concrete Floors

Wow, look at that shiny floor! For this indoor concrete floor, gray and brown concrete dyes were used for a varied look. Glossy water based sealer and a high gloss concrete floor wax completed that super glossy look.

Stormy Gray and Driftwood Vibrance Dye on Concrete Floor — Stormy gray and driftwood vibrance dye and polished concrete floor

Residential Concrete Floors: All About Ambiance

The beauty of colored concrete is that it directly affects the ambiance of a home – whether indoors or outdoors. When applied to a residential floor, concrete dye has the ability to transform a space. This floor nearly glows with this varied blend of colors!

Aztec brown, driftwood and malayan buff Vibrance dyed concrete floor

Stained concrete basement floor with aztec brown, driftwood and malayan buff Vibrance dye

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

View Products Used

Win $250 Cash with Your DIY Concrete Transformation!

Cumin Concrete Stain Photo Gallery

Find Cumin color inspiration for your next concrete stain project. Discover all the possibilities with Direct Colors DIY guides. Browse today, begin tomorrow.

Stamped concrete patio stained with cumin Antiquing stain

Cumin Antiquing Stain on Stamped Concrete Patio

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

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Antiquing - Walkway Cumin B&A — Faded concrete walkway stained with Cumin Antiquing Stain

A stunning return to radiance, showcasing Cumin and Maple Antiquing Stains

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Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

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Before and atter photo of stained concrete pool deck

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Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 225 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My patio has some 35 year old redwood furniture that I decided to refinish which I did. Using Cabot’s wood finish and I sanded it down. After finishing noticing the gray concrete did not help appearance and I had bought some gel acid stain from direct colors pre-pandemic and never used them. Ended up getting Everstain Acid stain we 3 gallons of acid stain with neutralizer and sealant. I used some shoes with spikes and applied as directed by web site using a sprayer. Following advice of outlining the sections with the lighter color then using the Malayan buff filling in between the desert amber, then streaked it with the antique red to add dimension and almost create a look like grain in wood. I let it dry overnight to get maximum paint absorption then got it damp with light water and brushed with large broom. I then applied the sealant in 2 coats. The first coat was rolled on and the second was sprayed on. The most difficult part of project was moving the furniture off and back on patio. The prep work has to be done with power washing and taping up the sides of the house.
Personal Tips:
If you are going to spray use wide tape to block off things that you don’t want sprayed. I used 1 inch, probably should use wider if the wind catches it you got it on your house.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. English Red EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit

Revived stamped concrete pool deck with Antiquing Cumin, Driftwood, and Terracotta Concrete Stain Colors — Revived stamped concrete pool deck with Cumin, Driftwood, and Terracotta Antiquing Stains. The combination of warm colors adds character and charm to this outdoor space.

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Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 225 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My patio has some 35 year old redwood furniture that I decided to refinish which I did. Using Cabot’s wood finish and I sanded it down. After finishing noticing the gray concrete did not help appearance and I had bought some gel acid stain from direct colors pre-pandemic and never used them. Ended up getting Everstain Acid stain we 3 gallons of acid stain with neutralizer and sealant. I used some shoes with spikes and applied as directed by web site using a sprayer. Following advice of outlining the sections with the lighter color then using the Malayan buff filling in between the desert amber, then streaked it with the antique red to add dimension and almost create a look like grain in wood. I let it dry overnight to get maximum paint absorption then got it damp with light water and brushed with large broom. I then applied the sealant in 2 coats. The first coat was rolled on and the second was sprayed on. The most difficult part of project was moving the furniture off and back on patio. The prep work has to be done with power washing and taping up the sides of the house.
Personal Tips:
If you are going to spray use wide tape to block off things that you don’t want sprayed. I used 1 inch, probably should use wider if the wind catches it you got it on your house.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. English Red EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit

Project Details & Tips

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 180 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 40 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We wanted to upgrade the kitchen in our ‘Hunting Camp’/seasonal home, and decided to create our own concrete countertops. Through much trial and error, testing of concrete and colors, we are finally done! Many of our test pieces have become park bench for ourselves and our friends.
Included are before, during and after pictures, plus one of the first park benches.
For the countertops, we used acid stain in Coffee Brown, Desert Amber and Seagrass. Through the testing, I learned to go easy on the Coffee Brown and to not be afraid of the Seagrass! I also learned to ‘just walk away’ and let the acid stain do its thing without overdoing it.
We love the final outcome and want to thank Direct Colors for their continued help and urgent assistance at each step along the way! Your customer service is top notch!
Personal Tips:
I would recommend doing small test pieces before a big project to figure out what color combinations and techniques you like. It is so important to know that, to a very large degree, you cannot control the final outcome, but with research, practice, and patience, anyone can do this.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™

Read How to Recolor Faded Stamped Concrete for more details

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Read How to Recolor Faded Stamped Concrete for more details

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EverStain™ Azure Blue Acid Stain Color — EverStain™ Azure Blue

An unfinished concrete wall fountain, with a rough grey surface

The concrete wall fountain after the application of Cumin Antiquing stain and sealed with EasySeal for added protection and durability. The combination of the warm, earthy stain and clear sealer creates a beautiful, long-lasting finish for the fountain

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 180 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 40 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We wanted to upgrade the kitchen in our ‘Hunting Camp’/seasonal home, and decided to create our own concrete countertops. Through much trial and error, testing of concrete and colors, we are finally done! Many of our test pieces have become park bench for ourselves and our friends.
Included are before, during and after pictures, plus one of the first park benches.
For the countertops, we used acid stain in Coffee Brown, Desert Amber and Seagrass. Through the testing, I learned to go easy on the Coffee Brown and to not be afraid of the Seagrass! I also learned to ‘just walk away’ and let the acid stain do its thing without overdoing it.
We love the final outcome and want to thank Direct Colors for their continued help and urgent assistance at each step along the way! Your customer service is top notch!
Personal Tips:
I would recommend doing small test pieces before a big project to figure out what color combinations and techniques you like. It is so important to know that, to a very large degree, you cannot control the final outcome, but with research, practice, and patience, anyone can do this.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™

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Faux Flagstone on Concrete Patio — Faux Stained Concrete Flagstone by Blessed Concrete

Faux Stained Concrete Flagstone by Blessed Concrete

Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

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Charcoal Outdoor Stains: Real DIY Outdoor Projects You’ll Love

Check out these awesome outdoor projects from our handy customers, all using our Charcoal Outdoor Stains. This page is chock-full of ideas to help you see just what you can do with our stains.

By Justin Richardson

Stamped Sidewalk Rescue: From Worn Out to Waterproof

This DIY project gave a 20-year-old, color-faded stamped concrete sidewalk a complete facelift. After stripping the old sealer, the DIYer applied a fresh coat of our Charcoal Antiquing™ Stain, followed by a satin finish sealer. The result? A refreshed sidewalk that shrugged off the next day’s rain like a freshly waxed car.

20-year-old stamped concrete sidewalk before renovation — The starting point: An aged, colorless sidewalk with remnants of old sealer

Freshly renovated sidewalk with charcoal antiquing stain and satin finish — The transformation: The old sidewalk rejuvenated with Charcoal Antiquing stain and satin EasySeal

Close-up view of the worn-out stamped concrete sidewalk before renovation — Zoomed in: Detailing the wear and tear of the old sidewalk

Close-up view of the revitalized sidewalk with charcoal antiquing stain and satin sealer — Up close: The sidewalk's impressive transformation, showcasing the detailed patterns in the freshly applied stain and sealer

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

View Products Used

Every image in this gallery depicts projects using our concrete stains, shared by actual customers. However, due to the semi-transparent nature of the stains, the end look will be influenced by your concrete’s original color and condition. Outcomes may differ. For best results, we advise a test patch on your surface before full application to ensure desired appearance.

Party Garage Creation: From Scratch to Starry-eyed Stained Floors

This DIYer built a non-slip, hand-troweled concrete floor for a new party garage near their pond. Using our Antiquing™ Stain, they added an impressive touch to the textured floor. Lessons learned included using the correct footwear during application and using a fresh sprayer for the second sealer coat. Despite minor mishaps, the project was a success, with the beautiful stained floor earning praise from all visitors.

Unfinished concrete garage floor prior to staining — Before the magic: A bare, hand-troweled concrete garage floor

DIYer using a pump sprayer to apply stain on the garage floor — In action: The transformation begins with the application of the antiquing stain using a pump sprayer

Finished garage showcasing the beautiful, textured and stained concrete floor — Stunning Transformation: The once bare garage now boasts a beautifully stained and textured concrete floor

View of the finished garage highlighting the installed kitchen countertops — A peek into the details: The stunning stained floor complements the newly installed kitchen countertops in the garage

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

View Products Used

Brown to Charcoal: A Stamped Concrete Transformation

With our Charcoal Antiquing™ Stain, this DIYer transformed a 13-year-old, faded brown stamped concrete area into a chic, multi-toned space. Despite the challenges of prep work and weather, the project turned out stunningly, proving that the right tools and products can make a huge difference.

Faded brown, stamped concrete floor before the application of stain — The starting point: A 13-year-old stamped concrete floor, faded to a dull brown

Multitoned charcoal stamped concrete floor with hints of brown undertones after application of stain — The transformation: A fresh, multitoned charcoal finish, hinting at its brown undertones, adds new life to the once faded floor

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

View Products Used

Courtyard Comeback: Revitalizing Aged Stamped Concrete

In this DIY project, our customer breathed new life into a worn-out stamped concrete courtyard. The process began with hands-on scrubbing, power washing, and thorough drying. After masking and dusting off the area, Charcoal Antiquing™ Stain was applied, immediately adding vibrancy back into the space. The finishing touch of EasySeal™ Gloss gave the courtyard an impressive makeover, inspiring the DIYer to use Direct Colors for all future stamped concrete projects. A key tip they shared is to limit traffic on the freshly stained area and to spray on the sealer for a perfect finish.

Worn-out stamped concrete courtyard before the application of stain and sealer — he original: A lackluster stamped concrete courtyard yearning for renewal

Revitalized courtyard with charcoal antiquing stain and gloss sealer — The transformation: A once weary courtyard now gleams with new life thanks to charcoal antiquing stain and glossy sealer

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

View Products Used

Walkway and Patio Refresh: Charcoal and Auburn Antiquing™ Stain Makeover

This project brought new life to a 12-year-old faded walkway and patio. The walkway was transformed using a two-tone approach with light and dark Charcoal Antiquing™ Stain, followed by a Satin EasySeal™ Sealer.

Worn, colorless concrete walkway before the application of stain — The blank canvas: A 12-year-old, color-faded concrete walkway

Renewed front walkway with dark and light charcoal antiquing stain — The upgrade: The walkway, now boasting rich, charcoal tones, shows off its renewed appeal

Aged, colorless backyard patio prior to the application of stain — The before: A 12-year-old backyard patio, worn and colorless

Backyard patio revitalized with light charcoal and auburn antiquing stain — The transformation: The patio, adorned in light charcoal and auburn, matches the new paver walkway perfectly

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 225 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My patio has some 35 year old redwood furniture that I decided to refinish which I did. Using Cabot’s wood finish and I sanded it down. After finishing noticing the gray concrete did not help appearance and I had bought some gel acid stain from direct colors pre-pandemic and never used them. Ended up getting Everstain Acid stain we 3 gallons of acid stain with neutralizer and sealant. I used some shoes with spikes and applied as directed by web site using a sprayer. Following advice of outlining the sections with the lighter color then using the Malayan buff filling in between the desert amber, then streaked it with the antique red to add dimension and almost create a look like grain in wood. I let it dry overnight to get maximum paint absorption then got it damp with light water and brushed with large broom. I then applied the sealant in 2 coats. The first coat was rolled on and the second was sprayed on. The most difficult part of project was moving the furniture off and back on patio. The prep work has to be done with power washing and taping up the sides of the house.
Personal Tips:
If you are going to spray use wide tape to block off things that you don’t want sprayed. I used 1 inch, probably should use wider if the wind catches it you got it on your house.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. English Red EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit

View Products Used

Self-Taught Patio Makeover: From Neglected to Stunning

This DIYer took the plunge to revive a neglected, faded patio after finding no professionals for the job. Armed with our DIY Antiquing™ Stain Kit and the helpful advice of our patient customer service, they tackled the project with enthusiasm. After a meticulous process of soy gel stripping, degreasing, staining, and sealing, they watched their patio spring back to life. The highlight? A new self-stained concrete block step that matched the patio perfectly. A key tip: always consider the weather for outdoor projects and shake your stain well before and during spraying.

Neglected and color-faded patio before restoration — Starting point: A three-year neglected patio waiting for a revamp

Revived patio after application of antiquing stain and gloss sealant — The transformation: The once neglected patio is now a showstopper, thanks to a successful DIY makeover

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 10 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1100 sq. ft.
Project Description: We just moved in to our new construction home after 19 long months of building (timeframe due to the pandemic).
We installed a hydronic radiant floor system in our basement and didn’t want to cover it up with carpet or LVP so we started researching other possible options. We ended up on Pinterest and that’s how discovered Direct Colors. We explored their website & galleries and really liked what we saw so we called and asked a few questions & the next day we ordered a DIY trial kit to try out & help us decide colors & combinations to get te look we wanted.
We chose the EverStain DIY kit in Coffee Brown & Desert Amber along with the Satin Acrylic sealer.
Overall, our project took roughly 10 days start to finish and we are absolutely thrilled with the results.
Personal Tips:
– Highly recommend doing the DIY trial kit! It really helped us decide which colors we needed to achieve the look we wanted & it also gave us really good insight to the entire process.
– We ended up a little short on the Everstain and had to order another gallon because I underestimated how much product we’d need to achieve a “marbling” effect using the wet on wet method. I watched all the technique videos but didn’t take into account the extra amount of product we’d need to allow for some pooling of the acid stain in the areas we wanted darker. The space we acid stained was approximately 1100 sq ft and I only ordered enough Everstain for 1200sq ft. so I ordered an additional gallon of coffee brown to finish the floor.
-We rented a ride-on floor scrubbing machine that also sucked up water which I’d highly recommend over hand scrubbing if you have a large area to clean & prep. It really saved our backs!
-Embrace the imperfections of your concrete. Don’t expect perfect results on a floor that wasn’t perfect to begin with. Our basement was poured earlier this year & while prepping it to etch, we found several rough spots, a few trowel marks, a couple small chips and a long, narrow crack. We just blended all the flaws into our marbling technique design & they blend in so well it’s really hard to spot them now.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss
Other Products Used:
Rust oleum 3-in-1 cleaner, degrease, etch

View Products Used

No More Ugly Orange Concrete Patio

If you are covering an old color that is very bright, make sure to buy enough stain. It took me multiple layers due to the bright orange that was there before. Other than that, it was a rather simple process.

Stained Red Stamped Concrete Patio — After Black and Charcoal Antiquing Stains Over Red Stamped Concrete

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 180 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 40 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We wanted to upgrade the kitchen in our ‘Hunting Camp’/seasonal home, and decided to create our own concrete countertops. Through much trial and error, testing of concrete and colors, we are finally done! Many of our test pieces have become park bench for ourselves and our friends.
Included are before, during and after pictures, plus one of the first park benches.
For the countertops, we used acid stain in Coffee Brown, Desert Amber and Seagrass. Through the testing, I learned to go easy on the Coffee Brown and to not be afraid of the Seagrass! I also learned to ‘just walk away’ and let the acid stain do its thing without overdoing it.
We love the final outcome and want to thank Direct Colors for their continued help and urgent assistance at each step along the way! Your customer service is top notch!
Personal Tips:
I would recommend doing small test pieces before a big project to figure out what color combinations and techniques you like. It is so important to know that, to a very large degree, you cannot control the final outcome, but with research, practice, and patience, anyone can do this.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™

View Products Used

Efficient Makeover: Broomed Concrete Patio Revamp

In this project, our DIYer rejuvenated a front patio made of broomed concrete using our Charcoal Antiquing™ Stain and EasySeal™ Satin DIY Kit. The pro-tip for this job: Spray in 100 sq ft increments to ensure efficient usage of stain and maintain proper mixing within the sprayer. An easy and effective way to transform your outdoor space.

Unfinished broomed concrete front patio prior to staining — The canvas: An untouched broomed concrete front patio

Refurbished front patio featuring antiqued charcoal stain and satin finish — The masterpiece: The front patio shines with new charisma thanks to the Charcoal Antiquing Stain and satin finish

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

View Products Used

Black Concrete Stain: Outdoor Transformations Gallery

By Justin Richardson

Dive into our gallery and see how black concrete stain works its magic on outdoor areas! From cool patios to chic driveways, get ready to be inspired for your next backyard makeover.

Clean and ready concrete patio, pre-stain application — A blank canvas, this patio awaits its chic transformation

Back concrete patio freshly stained with Black Antiquing for a modern appearance — From blank to bold, the Black Antiquing stain sets the stage for a contemporary feel.

Create a stylish and modern look for your outdoor living space by staining your covered concrete patio with black Antiquing™ stain on a broomed finish. This technique adds visual interest and texture to your patio, while the black stain gives it a bold and contemporary touch.

Products Used

Each photo in this gallery showcases real customer projects to inspire you. Keep in mind that our semi-transparent colorants mean the initial color and condition of your concrete will influence your final look, possibly leading to varied results. For best outcomes, please do a test patch on your specific surface before full application.

Transformed Barn Shop Floor with Black EasyTint™

After a rigorous clean-up of this barn shop used for automotive repair, two applications of our black EasyTint™ were necessary to achieve a fresh, unified look. Despite initial challenges with extensive stains and overspray, the final outcome delivered a functional yet aesthetically pleasing floor, ready for family gatherings and celebrations.

Before photo of a barn shop floor with visible oil stains and wear. — Pre-treatment: Barn shop floor showing extensive wear and oil stains

First coat of black concrete stain applied to barn shop floor — First Coat: Starting the transformation with black EasyTint™

Barn shop floor after second coat of black concrete stain, showing improved uniformity. — Second Coat: Enhanced uniformity and coverage on the barn shop floor

Finished barn shop floor with a reflective finish from the black concrete stain — Completed Project: Revamped and ready for celebrations, the floor now sports a sleek, unified look

Products Used

Sporty Sophistication: A High Gloss Black Score

Get ready for a slam dunk with our “Sporty Sophistication” project. This scored concrete front porch and driveway design is a true game-changer, featuring a black EasyTint™ tinted sealer in a high gloss finish for an elevated touch. But that’s not all – the driveway doubles as a basketball court with professionally marked lines, and a black free-throw area and 3-point arch for added contrast.

Image showcasing a scored concrete front porch stained with black EasyTint tinted sealer in a high gloss finish. — The "Sporty Sophistication" project kicks off at the front porch. This image showcases a scored concrete surface revitalized with a glossy black EasyTint tinted sealer, creating a chic, inviting entranceway.

Image of a driveway stained with black EasyTint tinted sealer, featuring basketball court lines and accents. — The creativity continues in this image, where our "Sporty Sophistication" project expands into the driveway. It's been stained to double as a basketball court, with professional lines and black accents for the free-throw area and 3-point arch. A perfect blend of fun and functionality!

Products Used

Penetrating Sealer & Hardener — ProSeal Li™ Hardener & Densifier

Elegantly Stained with EasyTint Black

A cozy outdoor patio under a gazebo with comfortable seating and a stamped concrete floor stained in a sleek black finish — Stamped concrete floor elegantly stained with EasyTint Black, creating a stylish and comfortable space perfect for relaxation

From Worn to Refreshed and Vibrant

A side-by-side comparison of a stamped concrete patio before and after renovation, showing a faded surface on the left and a rich, dark finish on the right. — Before and after: Renovating a faded stamped concrete patio with Black EasyTint, transforming it from worn to refreshed and vibrant.

Black Portico™ Stain Application

Black Portico™ Charm: A Stone & Trim Tango!

Swapping out grey for a dashing dark charcoal, this home’s stone facade got a radiant revamp. Complementing wood trim follows suit, creating a harmonious, eye-catching ensemble.

Full view of the house showcasing its original grey stone facade before staining — Starting Point: The home's original grey demeanor, ready for its charismatic transformation

House facade after the first coat of black Portico stain, showing a darker shade — House facade after the first coat of black Portico™ stain, showing a darker shade

Full view of the house showcasing its finished black Portico stone facade transformation — Full view of the house showcasing its finished Black Portico™ stained stone facade transformation

Full view of the house showcasing its finished Portico Black stone facade transformation — The sealer accentuates and locks in the luscious dark hue, adding depth and allure

Black Concrete Retaining Wall Revamp

Originally installed in 2021, this black concrete retaining wall was initially stained using a pump sprayer. To enhance its appearance, a second round of staining was done this year using a paintbrush for crevices and a roller for broader areas. The application of two coats made a significant difference, resulting in a more polished and durable finish just in time for planting season.

A black concrete wall with a wooden fence above, during staining — Midway through staining the wall, transforming it with black EasyTint

A backyard fence with a black concrete retaining wall and fresh landscaping — The completed black concrete retaining wall with a wooden fence

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 180 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 40 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We wanted to upgrade the kitchen in our ‘Hunting Camp’/seasonal home, and decided to create our own concrete countertops. Through much trial and error, testing of concrete and colors, we are finally done! Many of our test pieces have become park bench for ourselves and our friends.
Included are before, during and after pictures, plus one of the first park benches.
For the countertops, we used acid stain in Coffee Brown, Desert Amber and Seagrass. Through the testing, I learned to go easy on the Coffee Brown and to not be afraid of the Seagrass! I also learned to ‘just walk away’ and let the acid stain do its thing without overdoing it.
We love the final outcome and want to thank Direct Colors for their continued help and urgent assistance at each step along the way! Your customer service is top notch!
Personal Tips:
I would recommend doing small test pieces before a big project to figure out what color combinations and techniques you like. It is so important to know that, to a very large degree, you cannot control the final outcome, but with research, practice, and patience, anyone can do this.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™

Products Used

Pitch-Perfect Patio: Black is the New Backyard!

This back patio has been transformed with Black Antiquing stain, ushering in a sleek and modern vibe perfect for chic alfresco moments.

Finished stained and sealed concrete patio, radiating in its sleek elegance Antiquing Black — Back patio freshly stained with Black Antiquing Stain

Alternate angle of the finished back patio, highlighting the refined black-stained concrete

Products Used

EverStain™ Cola Acid Stain Color — EverStain™ Cola

Monochrome Modernity: A Garage Floor Revamp

Breathing life into a standard garage floor, Antiquing™ Black Stain was employed to deliver a nuanced, mottled appearance, offering both style and simplicity to this modernized space.

Freshly Applied Antiquing™ Black Stain on Garage Floor

Garage Floor Transformed: Post-Antiquing™ Black Stain and Sealing

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

Purple Reign Revival: A Tribute in Black and Gold

Step into a world of musical nostalgia with our “Purple Reign Revival” project. This concrete patio, boasting a monument dedicated to the iconic singer Prince, was rejuvenated from its faded state using black ColorWave®. The square monument proudly displays Prince’s signature symbol, engraved in gold, standing as a stylish and striking tribute. Let the before and after photos inspire you to turn your own patio into a space that truly sings.

Before image showing a faded concrete monument dedicated to Prince, with his signature symbol engraved. — The "Purple Reign Revival" story begins with a faded concrete monument dedicated to the legendary singer Prince. Notice the signature symbol patiently waiting for a touch of renewal.

After image displaying a refreshed concrete monument to Prince, restained with black ColorWave and featuring the Prince sign engraved in gold. — Witness the stunning transformation in the "Purple Reign Revival" project. The once-faded monument now proudly displays a vibrant black ColorWave stain, enhancing Prince's golden symbol and restoring the tribute's deserving glory.

Products Used

Project Info:

Project Completed In: Over 3 months
Estimate of Square Footage: 600 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I recently bought a house built in 1978 that had very light carpet for the game room and 2 bedrooms. Having a dog and knowing I was going to use the game room as my art studio, I knew before I moved in that the carpet would have to go. From a cost perspective as well as aesthetic and functionality, I knew I wanted to go with stained concrete. I also wanted to use gold leaf on any cracks as my own version of kintsugi, the Japanese practice of repairing broken pottery covering the mended areas with gold as a way to honor the journey of the piece.But I had no idea what the concrete looked like under the carpet until AFTER I moved in and had to pull back the carpet for needed structural repairs. It was then I discovered a HUGE crack and long story short, I needed to get stitches to hold the slab together to protect against further movement. The concrete was so messed up as well that I began to second guess my decision to acid stain. But I had a vision and started in on the prep.My floor had everything wrong with it and prep was brutal. I tried mechanical and solvent methods to remove all the things that were on it, but was unsuccessful on the carpet pad adhesive, some of the high heat paint, and a few other things of questionable origin. Again, I began to despair of my decision because I couldn’t get it prepped to look as nice as the pics showed on the website. But there was no turning back at this point, so just did my best and went for it.And I must say, I worried too much! I did use multiple colors of stain which provided camouflage for some of the areas I struggled with and it turned out beautifully! I decided to highlight the stitched crack making it more dramatic. I added some acrylic paint after the first layer of sealer to even some areas out and also did the gold leaf on the crack.It’s a one of a kind floor that fully captures what happens in this room. I have art classes to help people process their brokenness, seeing their life from a higher perspective that shows how all the broken and hard can be something beautiful. It’s a great visual aid!
Personal Tips:
1. Do your best on prep, but don’t stress. I totally over thought it
2. Have a helper. I did it by myself and it was A LOT
3. I filled some divots with concrete patch and some with epoxy. They will both take the stain differently but I think I would do all patch next time as the epoxy is too shiny compared to the rest of the floor.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
2 x 1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Satin Concrete Sealer
1 Qt. Seagrass EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Qt. Coffee Brown EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Qt. Malayan Buff EverStain™ Acid Stain
4 Oz. Black EverStain™ Acid Stain
2 x 1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin
Other Products Used:
Acrylic art paint in Yellow Oxide, Raw Sienna, Burnt Sienna, and Burnt Umber that blended with my stain colors nicely.Imitation gold leaf sheets and special gold leaf adhesive and sealer (I would go with gold leaf paint if I did it again)

Concrete Prep Made Easy: Step-by-Step Guide

Black ColorWave® Stain Application

Mottled Black Stain Tile Design

This project features a covered scored concrete patio stained with a mottled black Antiquing™ stain. The homeowner used tape to create a large tile design on the concrete, resulting in a unique and eye-catching pattern. The mottled effect adds depth and texture to the surface, while the tile design adds a decorative touch.

Covered scored concrete patio surface with tape creating a large tile design pattern, ready for staining.

Black Antiquing stained concrete patio surface with tape creating a large tile design pattern.

Products Used

Project Info:

Project Completed In: Over 3 months
Estimate of Square Footage: 600 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I recently bought a house built in 1978 that had very light carpet for the game room and 2 bedrooms. Having a dog and knowing I was going to use the game room as my art studio, I knew before I moved in that the carpet would have to go. From a cost perspective as well as aesthetic and functionality, I knew I wanted to go with stained concrete. I also wanted to use gold leaf on any cracks as my own version of kintsugi, the Japanese practice of repairing broken pottery covering the mended areas with gold as a way to honor the journey of the piece.But I had no idea what the concrete looked like under the carpet until AFTER I moved in and had to pull back the carpet for needed structural repairs. It was then I discovered a HUGE crack and long story short, I needed to get stitches to hold the slab together to protect against further movement. The concrete was so messed up as well that I began to second guess my decision to acid stain. But I had a vision and started in on the prep.My floor had everything wrong with it and prep was brutal. I tried mechanical and solvent methods to remove all the things that were on it, but was unsuccessful on the carpet pad adhesive, some of the high heat paint, and a few other things of questionable origin. Again, I began to despair of my decision because I couldn’t get it prepped to look as nice as the pics showed on the website. But there was no turning back at this point, so just did my best and went for it.And I must say, I worried too much! I did use multiple colors of stain which provided camouflage for some of the areas I struggled with and it turned out beautifully! I decided to highlight the stitched crack making it more dramatic. I added some acrylic paint after the first layer of sealer to even some areas out and also did the gold leaf on the crack.It’s a one of a kind floor that fully captures what happens in this room. I have art classes to help people process their brokenness, seeing their life from a higher perspective that shows how all the broken and hard can be something beautiful. It’s a great visual aid!
Personal Tips:
1. Do your best on prep, but don’t stress. I totally over thought it
2. Have a helper. I did it by myself and it was A LOT
3. I filled some divots with concrete patch and some with epoxy. They will both take the stain differently but I think I would do all patch next time as the epoxy is too shiny compared to the rest of the floor.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
2 x 1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Satin Concrete Sealer
1 Qt. Seagrass EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Qt. Coffee Brown EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Qt. Malayan Buff EverStain™ Acid Stain
4 Oz. Black EverStain™ Acid Stain
2 x 1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin
Other Products Used:
Acrylic art paint in Yellow Oxide, Raw Sienna, Burnt Sienna, and Burnt Umber that blended with my stain colors nicely.Imitation gold leaf sheets and special gold leaf adhesive and sealer (I would go with gold leaf paint if I did it again)

Saving a Stamped Concrete Surface with a DIY Solution

This DIY project features a homeowner who encountered a problem with their original stamped concrete surface. Due to hasty installation and power washing, the dark charcoal color and sealer were destroyed, leaving unsightly streaks. In search of a solution, they discovered a DIY product that saved their stamped concrete surface.

Damaged dark charcoal stamped concrete before restoration — Before: A botched job left this dark charcoal stamped concrete pool area in need of a rescue

Rejuvenated stamped concrete pool area after application of Black Antiquing stain and EasySeal high gloss sealer. — After: A striking transformation showcasing the restorative power of Black Antiquing stain and EasySeal high gloss sealer

Black Stained Concrete Pool Deck — Pet Friendly Black Antiquing Stain on Stamped Concrete Pool Deck

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 180 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 40 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We wanted to upgrade the kitchen in our ‘Hunting Camp’/seasonal home, and decided to create our own concrete countertops. Through much trial and error, testing of concrete and colors, we are finally done! Many of our test pieces have become park bench for ourselves and our friends.
Included are before, during and after pictures, plus one of the first park benches.
For the countertops, we used acid stain in Coffee Brown, Desert Amber and Seagrass. Through the testing, I learned to go easy on the Coffee Brown and to not be afraid of the Seagrass! I also learned to ‘just walk away’ and let the acid stain do its thing without overdoing it.
We love the final outcome and want to thank Direct Colors for their continued help and urgent assistance at each step along the way! Your customer service is top notch!
Personal Tips:
I would recommend doing small test pieces before a big project to figure out what color combinations and techniques you like. It is so important to know that, to a very large degree, you cannot control the final outcome, but with research, practice, and patience, anyone can do this.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™

Products Used

Reviving Neglected Stamped Concrete Pool Deck

This DIY project features a family that revived their old stamped concrete pool area with Antiquing™ stain and sealer. After letting the area go for 19 years with only one big box store sealer application, they decided to take matters into their own hands.

Neglected stamped concrete pool area prior to restoration — Before: A once-beautiful pool deck in need of serious TLC after 19 years of neglect

Revitalized concrete pool area after application of antiquing stain and sealer — After: A testament to the transformative power of DIY spirit and the right products – a refreshed and modern pool area

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 180 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 40 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We wanted to upgrade the kitchen in our ‘Hunting Camp’/seasonal home, and decided to create our own concrete countertops. Through much trial and error, testing of concrete and colors, we are finally done! Many of our test pieces have become park bench for ourselves and our friends.
Included are before, during and after pictures, plus one of the first park benches.
For the countertops, we used acid stain in Coffee Brown, Desert Amber and Seagrass. Through the testing, I learned to go easy on the Coffee Brown and to not be afraid of the Seagrass! I also learned to ‘just walk away’ and let the acid stain do its thing without overdoing it.
We love the final outcome and want to thank Direct Colors for their continued help and urgent assistance at each step along the way! Your customer service is top notch!
Personal Tips:
I would recommend doing small test pieces before a big project to figure out what color combinations and techniques you like. It is so important to know that, to a very large degree, you cannot control the final outcome, but with research, practice, and patience, anyone can do this.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™

Products Used

If you’re looking to choose the best stain for your pool concrete deck, check out our comprehensive guide titled “How To Choose The Best Pool Concrete Deck Stain“. This guide provides all the information you need to make an informed decision, including factors to consider, types of stains available, and application tips. Read on to ensure your pool area is both beautiful and functional.

For more concrete stained patio ideas, head over to “Stained Concrete Patio Ideas: Before And Afters, Tips, And Customer Stories“. This resource is packed with plenty of inspiration, tips, and customer stories to help you plan and execute your dream patio. Whether you’re looking for a bold and vibrant statement or a more subdued and natural look, you’ll find plenty of ideas and guidance here.

Interested in projects specifically using acid stain? Explore our dedicated Black EverStain™ Acid Stain Project Gallery for inspiration

Awesome DIY Makeovers with EverStain’s Desert Amber

Note: Remember, folks, these projects are here to spark your imagination and get those creative juices flowing! But keep in mind, your results might be a bit different. The condition of your concrete can make a big difference in how the Desert Amber stain turns out.

By Justin Richardson

Rugged Retreat: Garage Transformation with Desert Amber, Cola, and Coffee Brown

This garage has taken on a whole new identity! With Desert Amber, Cola, and Coffee Brown acid stains, what was once a mere storage space has become a rustic outdoorsman’s man cave. The finish is sealed with high gloss AcquaSeal™ and completed with a Gloss ProWax Polish™, lending a professional, polished finish. For a closer look at how this transformation was accomplished, check out the blog, “From Garage to Outdoorsman’s Paradise: A DIY Acid Stain Makeover“.

Wet-on-wet technique being used to apply Desert Amber, Cola, and Coffee Brown acid stains to garage floor — Customizing your concrete floor with acid stains in a range of shades allows you to achieve a unique, one-of-a-kind look for your space.

Stained Concrete Garage Floor — Desert Amber, Cola and Coffee Brown Acid Stains. Sealed with High AcquaSeal. Waxed with Gloss Floor Wax

Products Used

Basement Makeover: DIY Magic with Desert Amber and Coffee Brown

Check out this awesome DIY basement transformation! For more detailed information on this project, check out the blog, “Make Concrete Floors Look Like Leather With Acid Stains.”

nfinished basement with exposed insulation and untreated concrete floor. — Basement space before transformation

A photo of a completed acid stained concrete floor, displaying the unique leathered multi-layered color effect on the surface — The completed acid stained concrete floor, showcasing the beautiful leathered multi-layered color effect

Desert Amber and Coffee Brown EverStain Acid Stained Concrete Floor

Final look of a transformed basement into a rustic family/rec room with desert amber and coffee brown acid stain. The room features a live edge bar area, sliding barn door, and a reclaimed wood feature wall.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’ve been wanting to try this since the basement floors were poured in November 2019. This 400 sq. ft. area will be a family/rec room. We decided to do the floors ourselves before the drywall, etc. goes up. For that, we have pros coming to complete very soon. Our basement is framed in and divided into three spaces; two will be completed and the third is a large storage area. We are so pleased with how this turned out we are going to do it during “phase two” of our basement remodel, applying it on the second living space which will include a laundry room, workout area a half bath.We are very amateur DIYers, so if we can do this anyone can! We chose to use desert amber and coffee brown as our two color acid stain process. Our home is mostly “French Country farmhouse”, but this space will be a little more casual incorporating industrial farmhouse and rustic elements, including a reclaimed wood feature wall, live edge bar area and sliding barn door.
Personal Tips:
Be patient! Watch the “how to” videos featured on this website. If you have a question don’t be afraid to call or email customer service. They respond quickly, professionally and are very helpful and friendly. If your surface requires etching, be sure to clean it thoroughly before it dries. Hence the photo with white shoe prints. Where your spikes when doing this. It took about 12 scrubbings and a hand sander to clean that up!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
4 Oz. ProClean Neutralizer™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss

Products Used

Patio Pop: Vibrant DIY Concrete Fountain

Get inspired by this unique DIY concrete fountain project! Using EverStain’s Malayan Buff and Desert Amber, this DIYer turned an ordinary fountain into a vibrant backyard centerpiece. Handy tips like using spray bottles and a sponge for color blending helped them achieve this stunning result. For a full step-by-step guide, be sure to check out the blog, “How to Stain a Concrete Fountain: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide“.

An array of materials and tools used for creating a DIY concrete fountain — The beginnings of a masterpiece: Here are the molds that went into creating a unique DIY concrete fountain.

The completed DIY concrete fountain, beautifully stained with EverStain's Malayan Buff and Desert Amber, standing as a vibrant centerpiece against the patio's brick background — Voila! From humble materials to a standout piece. Check out this finished fountain, made all the more striking with EverStain's Malayan Buff and Desert Amber

Products Used

Farmhouse Flair: Barndominium Flooring Upgrade with Malayan Buff and Desert Amber

Get ready to be charmed by this rustic farmhouse-style Barndominium revamp! Our DC customer used a combination of Malayan Buff and Desert Amber to create a warm and inviting living space. This earthy and homely acid stain works wonders from the bathroom to the kitchen, bringing a uniform and cozy vibe throughout the entire house. Have a look, and you might find the inspiration you need for your next flooring project!

Closeup view of the textured floor stained with Malayan Buff and Desert Amber acid stain, showcasing the warm, earthy tones

The magic is in the details! See the rich, earthy texture of our Malayan Buff and Desert Amber stain up close

A spacious living room area with floors beautifully stained with Malayan Buff and Desert Amber, exuding a cozy farmhouse vibe — Cozy meets style in this living room area, thanks to the warmth of our Malayan Buff and Desert Amber acid stain

Kitchen area featuring rustic, farmhouse-style flooring enhanced with the warm hues of Malayan Buff and Desert Amber acid stain — Malayan Buff, Desert Amber, Coffee Brown EverStain Acid Stains with AcquaSeal Satin Acrylic Sealer

Detailed shot of a concrete vanity, artistically stained with Coffee Brown, complementing the bathroom's rustic charm

Elevating the rustic theme with this concrete vanity, perfectly stained with Coffee Brown. A beautiful blend with the Malayan Buff and Desert Amber flooring

Products Used

Patio Perfection: A Concrete Facelift with Malayan Buff, Desert Amber, and English Red

Round patio before application, showing dull concrete surface — The starting point: a dull, faded concrete patio longing for a color makeover

Transformed round patio showcasing a rich blend of Malayan Buff, Desert Amber, and English Red acid stains, complementing the refinished redwood furniture — From dull to delightful! The round patio transformed with the vibrant mix of Malayan Buff, Desert Amber, and English Red acid stains

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 225 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My patio has some 35 year old redwood furniture that I decided to refinish which I did. Using Cabot’s wood finish and I sanded it down. After finishing noticing the gray concrete did not help appearance and I had bought some gel acid stain from direct colors pre-pandemic and never used them. Ended up getting Everstain Acid stain we 3 gallons of acid stain with neutralizer and sealant. I used some shoes with spikes and applied as directed by web site using a sprayer. Following advice of outlining the sections with the lighter color then using the Malayan buff filling in between the desert amber, then streaked it with the antique red to add dimension and almost create a look like grain in wood. I let it dry overnight to get maximum paint absorption then got it damp with light water and brushed with large broom. I then applied the sealant in 2 coats. The first coat was rolled on and the second was sprayed on. The most difficult part of project was moving the furniture off and back on patio. The prep work has to be done with power washing and taping up the sides of the house.
Personal Tips:
If you are going to spray use wide tape to block off things that you don’t want sprayed. I used 1 inch, probably should use wider if the wind catches it you got it on your house.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. English Red EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit

View Products Used

Radiant Reveal: Hydronic Radiant Floor Transformed with Coffee Brown & Desert Amber

This DIYer used Everstain’s DIY kit in Coffee Brown & Desert Amber to transform their basement floor into a stunning showcase. After installing a hydronic radiant floor system, they sought a way to reveal rather than conceal it. The result? A magnificent “marbling” effect achieved with the wet-on-wet method.

A bare, untreated basement floor prior to the application of Everstain acid stain — The starting point: A simple, untreated basement floor ready for transformation

Three cats exploring a stunningly transformed basement floor, with a marbled effect created using Everstain's Coffee Brown and Desert Amber — Purr-fect transformation! The cats seem to approve of the newly transformed basement floor with its marbled effect, thanks to Everstain's Coffee Brown and Desert Amber

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 10 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1100 sq. ft.
Project Description: We just moved in to our new construction home after 19 long months of building (timeframe due to the pandemic).
We installed a hydronic radiant floor system in our basement and didn’t want to cover it up with carpet or LVP so we started researching other possible options. We ended up on Pinterest and that’s how discovered Direct Colors. We explored their website & galleries and really liked what we saw so we called and asked a few questions & the next day we ordered a DIY trial kit to try out & help us decide colors & combinations to get te look we wanted.
We chose the EverStain DIY kit in Coffee Brown & Desert Amber along with the Satin Acrylic sealer.
Overall, our project took roughly 10 days start to finish and we are absolutely thrilled with the results.
Personal Tips:
– Highly recommend doing the DIY trial kit! It really helped us decide which colors we needed to achieve the look we wanted & it also gave us really good insight to the entire process.
– We ended up a little short on the Everstain and had to order another gallon because I underestimated how much product we’d need to achieve a “marbling” effect using the wet on wet method. I watched all the technique videos but didn’t take into account the extra amount of product we’d need to allow for some pooling of the acid stain in the areas we wanted darker. The space we acid stained was approximately 1100 sq ft and I only ordered enough Everstain for 1200sq ft. so I ordered an additional gallon of coffee brown to finish the floor.
-We rented a ride-on floor scrubbing machine that also sucked up water which I’d highly recommend over hand scrubbing if you have a large area to clean & prep. It really saved our backs!
-Embrace the imperfections of your concrete. Don’t expect perfect results on a floor that wasn’t perfect to begin with. Our basement was poured earlier this year & while prepping it to etch, we found several rough spots, a few trowel marks, a couple small chips and a long, narrow crack. We just blended all the flaws into our marbling technique design & they blend in so well it’s really hard to spot them now.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss
Other Products Used:
Rust oleum 3-in-1 cleaner, degrease, etch

Products Used

Hunter’s Haven: Kitchen Countertop Transformation with Acid Stain

This homeowner decided to create their own concrete countertops, choosing a striking blend of Coffee Brown, Desert Amber, and Seagrass acid stains. The result? Countertops that steal the show! Learn how trial, error, and embracing the unexpected led to this impressive result.

A Formica countertop in a kitchen, prior to the application of Everstain acid stain — Before the upgrade: A standard Formica countertop awaiting transformation

A finished concrete countertop, richly stained with a mix of Coffee Brown, Desert Amber, and Seagrass — After the transformation: An eye-catching concrete countertop stained with Coffee Brown, Desert Amber, and Seagrass, injecting life into the kitchen

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 180 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 40 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We wanted to upgrade the kitchen in our ‘Hunting Camp’/seasonal home, and decided to create our own concrete countertops. Through much trial and error, testing of concrete and colors, we are finally done! Many of our test pieces have become park bench for ourselves and our friends.
Included are before, during and after pictures, plus one of the first park benches.
For the countertops, we used acid stain in Coffee Brown, Desert Amber and Seagrass. Through the testing, I learned to go easy on the Coffee Brown and to not be afraid of the Seagrass! I also learned to ‘just walk away’ and let the acid stain do its thing without overdoing it.
We love the final outcome and want to thank Direct Colors for their continued help and urgent assistance at each step along the way! Your customer service is top notch!
Personal Tips:
I would recommend doing small test pieces before a big project to figure out what color combinations and techniques you like. It is so important to know that, to a very large degree, you cannot control the final outcome, but with research, practice, and patience, anyone can do this.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™

Products Used

Family Fun Garage Floor Makeover

Concrete veining is one of those techniques that is only achievable using concrete acid stain. The marbled result and vibrant colors are hallmarks of concrete acid stain’s reaction to concrete surfaces. If you’re thinking of adding some concrete veining to your surfaces, you’ve come to the right place.

Acid Stained Concrete Floors — Desert Amber, Black, and Azure Blue mixed with Miracle Grow EverStain Acid Stains

View Products Used

Paving Perfection: DIY Pavers Enhanced with Desert Amber and Coffee Brown

This DIYer started with homemade pavers and colored cement but found the color to be inconsistent. By using Desert Amber and Coffee Brown EverStain acid stains, he was able to achieve a richer, more vibrant result.

Acid Stained Concrete Patio Paver Floor — After

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I created my own pavers using a mold and colored cement. However the cement color wasn’t entirely consistent or rich in color, so I decided to acid stain the blocks.
Personal Tips:
Spray the entire area with light color, go back and paint brush the dark areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Desert Amber, coffee brown, solvent based satin sealer.

Products Used

The Kintsugi-Inspired Acid Stained Concrete Floor Transformation

Inspired by Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, the homeowner chose to accentuate the floor’s imperfections instead of hiding them. Acid stains in Desert Amber, Seagrass, Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff, and Black EverStain were used to create a multi-tone effect, while gold leaf was applied to the crack to highlight its presence, symbolizing resilience and transformation. The project serves as a tangible representation of the homeowner’s art classes, which focus on acknowledging and turning life’s struggles into something beautiful.

An image showing the raw concrete floor with visible stitches. — The journey begins with a raw concrete floor, filled with stitches that bear a silent testimony to its past.

A photo capturing the moment of the wet acid stain application. — The dance of colors begins as Desert Amber, Seagrass, Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff, and Black EverStain acid stains grace the concrete surface, still wet and gleaming.

An image of the floor after the acid stains have been neutralized. — After neutralization, the acid stains reveal their true hues, blending seamlessly and setting the stage for the next steps.

A photo showing the floor after the first sealer coat with added imitation gold leafs to the cracks. — Following the first sealer coat, the floor’s prominent crack receives an artful touch of imitation gold leaf, honoring its journey and adding a dramatic flourish.

An image capturing the floor after the addition of acrylic paints. — The application of acrylic paints helps to even out certain areas, subtly complementing the colorful landscape created by the acid stains.

after-2-coats-prowax-polish-satin-everstain-desert-seagrass-coffee-malayan-black — The final masterpiece stands revealed: a floor transformed, a testament to resilience and beauty, and an inspiring canvas for creativity, ready to serve its purpose as an artistic hub.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: Over 3 months
Estimate of Square Footage: 600 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I recently bought a house built in 1978 that had very light carpet for the game room and 2 bedrooms. Having a dog and knowing I was going to use the game room as my art studio, I knew before I moved in that the carpet would have to go. From a cost perspective as well as aesthetic and functionality, I knew I wanted to go with stained concrete. I also wanted to use gold leaf on any cracks as my own version of kintsugi, the Japanese practice of repairing broken pottery covering the mended areas with gold as a way to honor the journey of the piece.But I had no idea what the concrete looked like under the carpet until AFTER I moved in and had to pull back the carpet for needed structural repairs. It was then I discovered a HUGE crack and long story short, I needed to get stitches to hold the slab together to protect against further movement. The concrete was so messed up as well that I began to second guess my decision to acid stain. But I had a vision and started in on the prep.My floor had everything wrong with it and prep was brutal. I tried mechanical and solvent methods to remove all the things that were on it, but was unsuccessful on the carpet pad adhesive, some of the high heat paint, and a few other things of questionable origin. Again, I began to despair of my decision because I couldn’t get it prepped to look as nice as the pics showed on the website. But there was no turning back at this point, so just did my best and went for it.And I must say, I worried too much! I did use multiple colors of stain which provided camouflage for some of the areas I struggled with and it turned out beautifully! I decided to highlight the stitched crack making it more dramatic. I added some acrylic paint after the first layer of sealer to even some areas out and also did the gold leaf on the crack.It’s a one of a kind floor that fully captures what happens in this room. I have art classes to help people process their brokenness, seeing their life from a higher perspective that shows how all the broken and hard can be something beautiful. It’s a great visual aid!
Personal Tips:
1. Do your best on prep, but don’t stress. I totally over thought it
2. Have a helper. I did it by myself and it was A LOT
3. I filled some divots with concrete patch and some with epoxy. They will both take the stain differently but I think I would do all patch next time as the epoxy is too shiny compared to the rest of the floor.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
2 x 1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Satin Concrete Sealer
1 Qt. Seagrass EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Qt. Coffee Brown EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Qt. Malayan Buff EverStain™ Acid Stain
4 Oz. Black EverStain™ Acid Stain
2 x 1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin
Other Products Used:
Acrylic art paint in Yellow Oxide, Raw Sienna, Burnt Sienna, and Burnt Umber that blended with my stain colors nicely.Imitation gold leaf sheets and special gold leaf adhesive and sealer (I would go with gold leaf paint if I did it again)

Products Used

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Cola EverStain™ in Action: See Our Customers’ Projects

Take a look at our gallery of cool projects where our customers used Cola EverStain™ concrete acid stain. See how this warm, orange-brown color can spice up any concrete space. And don’t forget, the final color can change based on your concrete, so try it out first!

By Justin Richardson

Earthy Elegance: Front Porch Makeover with Cola EverStain™

The front porch of a stunning estate home was transformed with Cola EverStain™. Harmonizing beautifully with the earthy brick tones of the house, the porch now exudes an inviting warmth, further accentuated by its elegant columns.

A finished front porch of an earthy brick estate home, enhanced by the warm hues of Cola EverStain™ — A harmonious blend: The completed front porch, its warm Cola EverStain™ perfectly complementing the earthy brick of the estate home

A concrete driveway with edging stained by Cola EverStain™, matching the earthy tones of the estate home — Uniform elegance: The driveway's edges, stained with Cola EverStain™, perfectly echoing the warmth of the estate home's front porch

The completed front porch steps of an estate home, displaying the warm, rich tones of Cola EverStain — Step up in style: The front porch steps transformed with the inviting tones of Cola EverStain™

Products Used

Outside Kitchen Revamp with Cola Stain

This outdoor kitchen, located in a California room, was effortlessly enhanced using the easy-to-apply Cola EverStain™ acid stain.

Unstained, broomed concrete of an outdoor kitchen ready for application of Cola stain — The outdoor kitchen space before staining: a clean, broomed concrete canvas ready for transformation with Cola stain

Outdoor kitchen featuring a gazebo, with the concrete enhanced by the warm hues of Cola stain — Post-transformation: the outdoor kitchen showcasing the inviting, rich tones of Cola stain, complete with a gazebo

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Outside kitchen ..California room
Personal Tips:
Follow the instructions. Very easy to apply the stain

Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Cola DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Cola EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

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One-Day Courtyard Transformation

In just a day, this 200 sq. ft. courtyard was revitalized using Cola acid stain. Key tip: always wear goggles and gloves for safety while following the product’s instructions.

Clean, unstained 200 sq. ft. courtyard ready for application of Cola acid stain — Ready to transform: our 200 sq. ft. courtyard before the Cola acid stain application

Revitalized 200 sq. ft. courtyard, displaying the warm, orange-brown hues of the applied Cola acid stain — Cola EverStain on broom finish concrete courtyard patio

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 1 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Courtyard
Personal Tips:
Follow the instructions. Goggles and gloves highly recommended
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Cola DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

The BBQ Porch Makeover: A Stamped Concrete Revival

Check out this project where a plain concrete porch becomes a cozy BBQ spot using EverStain™ Cola. The warm color brings the space to life, making it a welcoming place for family gatherings and outdoor cookouts.

A photo showing a newly stained concrete porch with a BBQ area, stained with EverStain Cola — The Porch Makeover: An inviting BBQ spot born from a simple porch, enriched with the warm tones of EverStain Cola.

An image of a concrete porch, highlighting the BBQ area and the depth of the stain color — Another Perspective: An alternative view of the EverStain Cola-colored porch, showcasing the subtle nuances of the stain color and the BBQ spot

Products Used

Game Room Remodel

For Details and tips visit Achieve a Worn Leather Look Acid-Stained Concrete Floors

Concrete floor of the game room post application of Cola, Coffee Brown, and Desert Amber EverStain™ acid stains

Finished game room floor showcasing the rich, vintage leather look

Cozy Cabin Addition with Cola and Malayan Buff Stain

An addition to a charming cabin was brought to life with a blend of Cola and Malayan Buff acid stains. The project incorporated a water-based sealer for less odor, although the creator personally recommends solvent for better results.

Unstained interior room in a cabin addition, prepped and ready for Cola and Malayan Buff acid stain application — Before the transformation: the cabin addition's interior room awaiting its warm, new hues

Finished cabin addition room, showcasing the blended warm tones of Cola and Malayan Buff acid stains — After the transformation: The cabin addition now radiates a cozy, inviting atmosphere with the applied Cola and Malayan Buff acid stains.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 304 sq. ft.
Project Description:
This is an addition on a cabin.

Personal Tips:
I used a water based sealer for the first time. I was trying to keep the odor down as this is an interior room.
The solvent works much better in my opinion.

Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Cola DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

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.

Two coats of concrete floor wax all done and fully cured.

Spraying citrus etch residue into one area to be shop vacuumed up, after thoroughly neutralized and scrubbed

Application of azure blue "veins" with miracle grow to bring out blue intensity!

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.

Blending in the cola against the azure blue veins

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.

Products Used

Curious about achieving a deeper blue hue on your concrete projects? Explore our blog post, ‘Using Miracle Gro To Enhance The Blue Hues Of Acid Stain On Concrete,’ to learn the tips and tricks of harnessing this garden essential for your staining process

Transforming a Screened Porch Floor with EverStain Acid Stains

This project demonstrates the artistic transformation of a 10×12 ft screened porch addition with a unique blend of Azure Blue, Avocado, English Red, and Desert Amber EverStain Acid Stains. Using a Modello stencil, the creator skillfully applied a design to the concrete floor. For more details and tips visit Multicolor Stencil Magic: Transforming a Screened Porch Floor with EverStain Acid Stains

Before transformation: A plain, clean concrete floor of a porch — Clean and simple concrete porch before the makeover

Finished and sealed porch floor showcasing the vibrant stencil design — The sealed porch floor, flaunting the stunning and colorful stencil design

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 120 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Had an addition to the house and included a covered screen in porch of 10×12 ft. Decided to stain the concrete and add a stencil. Used a Modello stencil on the project and multiple color stains for the overall look.
Personal Tips:
For some reason only the English red had issues with bleeding through the stencil. We also left the inside of the stencil without stain as the contrast was nicer than trying to add another color. I taking the time to lay the stencil out is key. I used a sponge to apply the colors to the stencil and a sprayer to stain the border. Also, do not judge your work until after the sealer is applied as it really helps the colors show. Overall, it was a fun project. I would do it again.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Qt. Malayan Buff EverStain™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™
4 Oz. Azure Blue EverStain™
4 Oz. Avocado EverStain™
4 Oz. English Red EverStain™
Other Products Used:
Modello Stencil- Bradbury CC101 Custom Carpet & Ceiling Stencil 6x6ft.

Products Used

Spiked Shoes for Staining Concrete Floors — Spiked Shoes

Seagrass EverStain Swatch — EverStain™ Seagrass

Malayan Buff EverStain Swatch — EverStain™ Malayan Buff

Desert Amber EverStain Acid Stain — EverStain™ Desert Amber

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.

Acid Stained Restaurant Concrete Floor — After

Products Used

Coffee Brown EverStain Swatch — EverStain™ Coffee Brown

Azure Blue EverStain Swatch — EverStain™ Azure Blue

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.

Azure Blue & Cola EverStain Application on Concrete Floor

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.

Azure Blue & Cola EverStain on Concrete Patio Floor

Azure Blue & Coffee Brown EverStain on Concrete Patio — Azure Blue & Cola EverStain on Concrete Patio Floor

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.

Products Used

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Acid stain concrete floor basement in Malayan Buff

The Malayan Buff EverStain™ Collection

Browse through our gallery of unique customer projects, each one a testament to the beauty and durability of Malayan Buff EverStain™ concrete acid stain.

By Justin Richardson

The Whiskey Bar Revival: A DIY Basement Makeover by @carharthomestead

Step into the world of Kaitlyn Carhart, the creative force behind @carharthomestead, as she transforms her basement into a cozy Whiskey bar. Tucked away in New York’s Finger Lakes region, this endeavor stands as a testament to her love for neutral hues, natural textures, and Nordic-minimalistic style.

Image of the untreated concrete floor in the basement before renovation — Before the transformation: The raw, concrete basement floor awaiting its makeover

Image of the concrete floor after application of Malayan Buff and sealer — Post-staining: The concrete floor glowing with the earthy tones of Malayan Buff, sealed for durability and gloss

Image featuring a cozy set-up with two reclining leather chairs, a cowhide rug, and string lights above — A cozy nook: The whiskey bar's inviting setup with leather recliners, a chic cowhide rug, and whimsical string lights for a warm ambiance

Image showcasing the finished whiskey bar in the basement — Whiskey Bar Wonders: The culmination of @carharthomestead's labor of love, presenting the fully-realized, inviting whiskey bar in the basement

Products Used

Reviving History: The Armour Chapel Restoration

Witness the transformation of the 1902 Armour Chapel, as volunteers brought its concrete floor back to life using our Malayan Buff EverStain™. Despite the challenges of dealing with a century-old dirt-encrusted floor and no running water on-site, their dedication, combined with our stain and sealer, turned the blackened gray floor into a beautiful, warm, and inviting space. Learn from their experience and don’t forget to mask areas you don’t want stained!

"Pre-renovation photo of the worn-out chapel floor, leading towards the altar — Armour Chapel: The floor's original state, covered with over a century's worth of dirt, facing the altar

Post-renovation photo of the chapel floor looking towards the altar, stained in Malayan Buff — The Armour Chapel revitalized: The floor, now stained in our warm Malayan Buff, elegantly leading towards the altar

Close-up image of the newly stained chapel floor with Malayan Buff — Close-up of the Armour Chapel floor, showcasing the vibrant, earthy tones of our Malayan Buff EverStain™

"Post-renovation photo of the chapel floor, looking towards the front door, stained in Malayan Buff — The rebirth of the Armour Chapel: The floor, facing the front door, now radiates with the depth and richness of our Malayan Buff EverStain™

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 10 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
The Armour Chapel was built in 1902 in memory of Kirkland B Armour of the Armour meat packing company by his wife Annie. The concrete floor was in sad shape & had about 120 years of dirt on it! The color was a sort of blackened gray & not at all attractive. We cleaned the floor thoroughly, sanded the concrete by hand and then used Direct Colors Malayan Buff to stain the floor. This was quite an endeavor because there is no running water available at the chapel! All water was transported in gallon jugs. We then sealed the floor with the satin finish sealer. This project was completed by Elmwood volunteers who donated their time & effort to bring the floor back to life.
Personal Tips:
Take your time & be sure to mask off areas you don’t want stained!
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
Other Products Used:
Lots of sandpaper!

Products Used

Culinary Canvas: A Commercial Kitchen Transformation by @fruitfulvintagechef

Step into the transformed commercial kitchen of @fruitfulvintagechef, where a fresh concrete slab was converted into a dynamic and durable floor using our DIY acid stain and sealer. After an initial professional grind, the application of our products infused color and life into the kitchen. The process was swift, smooth, and cost-effective, with Direct Colors’ team offering expert advice throughout.

concrete floor in the commercial kitchen before staining — The starting point: The cleaned concrete floor of @fruitfulvintagechef's commercial kitchen, before the transformation

Close-up image of the concrete floor after the application of Malayan Buff and sealer — Post-staining close-up: A detailed look at the floor's new vibrant tones, courtesy of our Malayan Buff stain and EasySeal sealer

Image showcasing the completed commercial kitchen with the stained and sealed floor — The Culinary Canvas: @fruitfulvintagechef's fully transformed commercial kitchen, featuring the deep, earthy tones of our Malayan Buff EverStain™

See How to Apply and Seal Concrete Acid Stain

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 575 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I used your acid stain for my commercial kitchen for my personal chef service. We have a newly constructed building with a concrete slab. We had the concrete ground down professionally first and then wanted to add color. We chose Direct Colors DIY acid stain with sealer. The process went smoothly and didn’t take long. The product was also reasonably priced. Shane was a great help in explaining what to purchase and how to apply each item. We love the final outcome and so glad we went this route with Direct Colors DIY acid stain and sealer!
Personal Tips:
1. Invest in multiple sprayers to avoid having to clean out the sprayer and save time.
2. Use respirator with appropriate filters. The smell is extremely strong.
3. Spiked shoes work great too.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Malayan Buff DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
2 x 1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
Other Products Used:
Respirator

Products Used

Slice of Style: Mill House Pizza Restaurant’s Flooring Facelift

Dive into the tasty transformation of the Mill House Pizza Restaurant‘s concrete floor, where acid stain and concrete dye created a feast of character and charm. The neutral Malayan Buff EverStain™ acid stain partnered perfectly with the eatery’s exposed brick walls, enriching its rustic allure. Despite the floor’s 30-year vintage and problem areas, Vibrance™ concrete dye came to the rescue, evening out the floor color beautifully. This project serves as a flavorful example of revitalizing older concrete floors. For detailed insights on how this floor was refreshed, check out our blog post, “6 Steps To Fix Acid Staining Problems On Concrete Floors”.

Image of the faded, aged concrete floor with white spots, before treatmen — Before: The original, aged concrete floor in Mill House Pizza Restaurant, showing signs of wear and discoloration

Close-up image of a portion of the floor after acid stain application, showcasing areas that did not accept the stain — Staining challenges: Close-up of areas where the acid stain did not take, signaling the need for Vibrance™ Malayan Buff concrete dye.

Image of the floor post-Vibrance™ dye application and during the sealing process — Progress: The floor post Malayan Buff Vibrance™ dye application, visibly evening out the color, and in the process of being sealed for durability

Image of the fully sealed concrete floor — Sealed and protected: The revitalized concrete floor after sealing, showcasing its new, balanced coloration

Image showcasing the finished dining area of the pizzeria, with exposed brick walls and vintage posters — Dining with a dash of style: The completed Mill House Pizza Restaurant dining area, showing the concrete floor's new life, the character-rich exposed brick walls, and the charming vintage posters

Finished dining area in the pizzeria — Slice of ambiance: The captivating Mill House Pizza Restaurant, showing off its revitalized floor and unique interior design

Products Used

Malayan Buff Vibrance Swatch — Vibrance™ Malayan Buff

Fresh Pour, New Hue: A Home Transformation

Explore the creation of a vibrant new floor in a residential setting, where freshly poured concrete met with the captivating tones of our stain. The homeowners patiently waited for the concrete to cure, applied the stain, added more for depth of color, and then sealed and waxed the surface. Note their valuable tip about the neutralizing scrub and rinse, a crucial step in the process that can take several hours to complete.

Image of a cured concrete floor before staining — Starting point: The brand new, untouched concrete floor before the staining process

Image of the concrete floor after application and neutralization of Malayan Buff stain, now clean and dry — Post-staining: The floor after the application and neutralization of Malayan Buff, revealing a clean and dry surface

Image of the concrete floor after sealer application — Enhanced Durability: The concrete floor after the application of the sealer, offering a protective layer and highlighting the stain's rich tones

Image of the concrete floor after the application of ProWax Polish — Final Touch: The concrete floor post-application of ProWax Polish, showcasing a beautifully polished, satin finish that elevates the overall appeal

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 26 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 600 sq. ft.
Project Description:
New floor for our home. Brand new concrete pour. Waited 30 days for cure and then applied the stain. Determined we needed a bit more color so ordered more stain. Applied the color, then the sealer and finally the wax.
Personal Tips:
In our experience, the neutralizing scrub and rinse took several hours to complete. People need to be aware this is a significant part of the process.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Malayan Buff DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
2 x 1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin
Other Products Used:
A mop

Products Used

Weekend Floor Revamp: Achieving Deep, Lustrous Hues with Malayan Buff

This project provides an excellent example of the beauty and ease of a weekend DIY home flooring transformation. The homeowners embarked on a journey from cleaning to sealing their concrete floor, all within the span of three days. Opting for two coats of our Malayan Buff acid stain, they achieved the exact color intensity they desired. By applying a sealer, they further enhanced the floor’s durability, with plans for a second coat given its striking results. Personal tips include using a smaller brush for corner applications, proper ventilation during sealing, and patience in allowing ample airing out time. Truly a testament to the power of DIY!

Malayan Buff EverStain and AcquaSeal stained living room concrete floor

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 425 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We cleaned the floor in Friday evening. Saturday we sprayed on the acid stain, letting the first cost dry. After about 5 hours we decided we wanted it a bit darker so we sprayed a 2nd coat. Then that evening we neutralized it and the color is exactly as we want it. Sunday we sprayed on the sealer. We plan on applying a second coat of sealer since we only applied a thin coat and have a lot leftover.
Personal Tips:
We used a smaller paintbrush to apply the acid stain and sealer before spraying to get into the corners and hard to reach places. Also we had to open window, turn and on fans to air out the sealer. Being that the weather is so cold we left the house. It took around 8 – 10 hours to air out, so keep that in mind if you use the solvent sealer. But really, this is so easy to do with such great beautiful results!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Malayan Buff DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Qt. Malayan Buff EverStain™
1 Qt. EasySeal™ Gloss

Products Used

Golden Retreat: Malayan Buff-Stained Patio

This patio was transformed with the warm, earthy tones of Malayan Buff acid stain, a simple yet elegant choice that brings a golden glow, creating a serene and inviting outdoor space.

Acid stained backyard patio — Malayan buff EverStain

Products Used

Malayan Buff Oasis: Back Porch Fire Pit Haven

This warm and inviting back porch fire pit area was brought to life with the rich, golden hues of Malayan Buff acid stain. It’s the perfect spot for relaxing and making memories.

EverStain stained Patio with Malayan Buff — Malayan Buff EverStain on Concrete Patio

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 350 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We stained our back porch area with malayan buff stain
Personal Tips:
Don’t be afraid to spray generously and it is such an easy process!
The solvent works much better in my opinion.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Malayan Buff DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

Barn to Beauty Parlor

From hay and hooves to brushes and bows, this transformed barn now shines as a pet grooming haven. Visit our Avocado Stain Gallery for more details and inspiration.

Etched concrete floor in the barn, prepped and ready for acid staining — Clean Slate: A barn floor etched and eager for its colorful transformation

stained floor showcasing its green marbleized finish around the designated dog stall areas — Stylish Stalls: Where pets rest on a floor that's nothing short of art

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 900 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Etched, sanded, rinsed, Malayan buff base, and avocado on top then sealed 🙂
Personal Tips:
The stain will be much richer after sealing and if sanding is necessary, adding a little water is so helpful.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
3 x 1 Gal. Avocado EverStain™
5 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
OxiGrip™ Anti-slip Additive

Products Used

Avocado EverStain Swatch — EverStain™ Avocado

Patina-Inspired Shop Floor

A novice acid stain user transformed his shop floor using a layered technique with Malayan Bluff and Avocado from EverStain™, achieving a patina look that perfectly complements his rusted walls. Visit our Avocado Stain Gallery for more details and inspiration.

A concrete floor freshly sprayed with Avocado and Malayan Bluff acid stains from EverStain, showing a raw and unsealed look. — Freshly applied Avocado and Malayan Bluff acid stains – a canvas full of potential.

A final shot of a sealed concrete floor, revealing the Avocado and Malayan Bluff stain's enhanced colors after the application of a high-gloss sealer. — The grand reveal – stunning vibrancy of colors emerges after sealing the acid-stained floor.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 625 sq. ft.
Project Description:
First time working with acid stain and I learned a lot through the process. My shop floor turned out awesome! I was going for a patina look with the rusted walls and nailed it!
Personal Tips:
First, study the preparation tips outlined in the direct colors how to guide. Make sure you are prepared and have the time to follow each step to get the desired results.
Second, study the application and dry time in the how to guides to make sure you have the time to spray and neutralize within the timeframe recommended for the chosen colors ( I didn’t realize different colors had different dry times and ended up out in my shop neutralizing and cleaning till midnight one night.
Lastly, Don’t be discouraged by what the floor looks like before sealing. It will gain its color with the sealer. I thought mine was going to turn out terrible until I got the sealer on it!
DONT FORGET THE SPIKE SHOES AND USE THEM DURING ETCHING SO YOU DO NOT HAVE FOOTPRINTS TO CLEAN UP AND SAND.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
3 x 1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Avocado EverStain™
Other Products Used:
Harbor freight 1.25 gallon sprayer
Spike shoes from amazon.

Products Used

Rustic Retreat: Malayan Buff and Cola Acid Stain Project

This a cabin extension gets a charming update with Malayan Buff and Cola EverStain™ acid stains. This blend creates a warm, rustic ambiance, perfect for a cozy cabin feel. Visit our Cola Stain Gallery for more details and inspiration

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 304 sq. ft.
Project Description:
This is an addition on a cabin.
Personal Tips:
The solvent works much better in my opinion.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Malayan Buff DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Cola EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit

Products Used

Dual-Tone Floor Design in a Barndominium Master Suite

In this project, a casita’s master suite within a barndominium was refreshed with a floor makeover. Our Malayan Buff and Seagrass Acid Stains were expertly applied to create a striking, two-tone effect. The result is a unique, eye-catching master suite floor that adds character to the barndominium. Visit our Seagrass Stain Gallery for more details and inspiration.

Acid stained and sealed concrete floor after second coat of ProWax Polish™ application, satin finish enhances vibrant colors making the surface look even more beautiful — A final touch of perfection: ProWax Polish™ is applied on this acid stained and sealed barndominium concrete floor, adding a satin finish to the already vibrant colors, making the floor look even more stunning.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Building a barndominium that consists of a casita on one side and the main house on the opposite side, this is the floor in the Master of the casita.
Personal Tips:
When it comes to the sealer, I found it best to spray on with a pump sprayer and then go over it with a moist paint roller with a light touch, to even it all out.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

Farmhouse Flair: Barndominium Flooring Upgrade with Malayan Buff and Desert Amber

Products Used

Trust The Process

This DC customer dressed up their back patio and concrete front porch with acid stain. Since the home was a new construction less than two years old, they made it a point to seal their concrete afterward. Amazing things can happen when you trust the DIY process!

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 300 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We stained our back patio plus front porch in one project. Our house was a new construction built less than 2 years ago and concrete was not sealed. Concrete blankets were used during curing process which left some marks on concrete that we didn’t like but they took stain nicely.
Personal Tips:
Make sure you use sprayer with plastic nozzle, acid reacts with metal.

Cover rocks in your landscape as they may have lime in them and can get stained.

Plastic will not stain but wipe it off right away so it is easier to clean up.

Have a bucket close to you sprayer so you can put a nozzle in it as those things tend yo drip or spray after you stopped the trigger.

Trust the process, concrete will look dull and patchy until washing step.

You can still scrub some finish with the broom and baking soda water at that point.

Then let it dry f or a day before sealing.

Direct Colors Products Used:
Porch was done with Malayan buff and then diluted Cola, wet on dry, Cola was also spread out with a broom for a mottled look. Both neutralized after about 22 hours, washed and left to dry for a day before sealer.
Other Products Used:
Foundation Armor ax25 pool deck and patio sealer (high gloss, with wet look).

Products Used

Patio Pop: Vibrant DIY Concrete Fountain

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 20 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I wanted to create a concrete fountain for our back patio. I created molds for a concrete sphere using an 8-inch diameter glass globe for an overhead light, which I broke away after the concrete cured. I also created cylindrical stands with molds for concrete footings. Instead of ending with a drab gray color for my fountains, I wanted splashes of color (pardon the pun!).I used EverStain Malayan Buff and Desert Amber for my colors and the Deep Penetrating Matte Sealant. I love the rich colors this combination produced and how they pop off the painted brick of our patio.
Personal Tips:
The how-to videos were very helpful in understanding the ways the acids blend. With a spray bottle for each acid, the colors blended nicely together. I used a sponge to mottle a bit. When the fountains have water pouring over them, the colors really pop!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Qt. Desert Amber EverStain™
1 Qt. Coffee Brown EverStain™
1 Qt. Penetrating Sealer
Other Products Used:
Baking soda neutralizer
Spray bottles
Sponge
Paint brush
Bristled brush for cleaning

Products Used

Multi-tone Acid Stained Basement Slab

This project involved the transformation of a new concrete basement slab in a newly built home. The result was a captivating multi-tone floor that added unique character to the basement space. By using a pump sprayer for each color and starting with the lighter shade for veins, the homeowners managed to create a layered, visually intriguing floor design that seamlessly blends the three chosen colors. Visit our Seagrass Stain Gallery for more details and inspiration!

Newly constructed bare concrete floor in a basement awaiting staining — Start of the project: The cured, bare concrete basement slab before the acid staining process begins

Final result of the basement floor project after the second coat of wax, exhibiting a glossy finish and deep, vibrant colors — Final Outcome: The basement floor gleams with a glossy finish after the second layer of wax, displaying the rich, vibrant colors and intricate patterns achieved with the acid staining process

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1760 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We acid stained a new concrete basement slab for our new home. The slab is 2 months old at the time of staining. We used coffee brown, malayan buff, and sea grass colors then sealed with acqua seal gloss (2 coats), and prowax gloss (2 coats).
Personal Tips:
We put each color in a pump sprayer. We started with the lighter color (sea grass) to make the veins. We let it sit for about 10 min for the color to start to show up so we could tell very clearly where we had gone. We then filled in with the other 2 colors and overlapped the browns in many areas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
2 x 5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
3 x 1 Gal. Seagrass DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
3 x 1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
3 x 1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss

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Stunning Stained Outdoor Space

If you want a concrete patio that you, your friends, and your family can enjoy, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll give you all the materials, steps, and tips you need to create the concrete patio of your dreams. Let’s get started.

Used malayan buff inside the black highlights

Round patio with fire pit stained in black, malayan buff, and seagrass using wet-on-dry acid staining technique — This round patio with a fire pit was transformed using Black, Malayan Buff, and SeaGrass acid stains applied using the wet-on-dry technique for a stunning, multi-colored finish.

Products Used

Black Acid Stain Concrete Color — EverStain™ Black

Patio Perfection: A Concrete Facelift with Malayan Buff, Desert Amber, and English Red

Ever wondered how a simple concrete patio can be transformed into a gorgeous outdoor living space? Here’s the answer! This DIYer took their 35-year-old patio from drab to fab using Everstain™ acid stains. Using spiked shoes and a sprayer, they applied Malayan Buff, Desert Amber, and English Red stains, creating a rich, wood-like grain effect. The staining process was followed by two coats of sealant for a lasting finish.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 225 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My patio has some 35 year old redwood furniture that I decided to refinish which I did. Using Cabot’s wood finish and I sanded it down. After finishing noticing the gray concrete did not help appearance and I had bought some gel acid stain from direct colors pre-pandemic and never used them. Ended up getting Everstain Acid stain we 3 gallons of acid stain with neutralizer and sealant. I used some shoes with spikes and applied as directed by web site using a sprayer. Following advice of outlining the sections with the lighter color then using the Malayan buff filling in between the desert amber, then streaked it with the antique red to add dimension and almost create a look like grain in wood. I let it dry overnight to get maximum paint absorption then got it damp with light water and brushed with large broom. I then applied the sealant in 2 coats. The first coat was rolled on and the second was sprayed on. The most difficult part of project was moving the furniture off and back on patio. The prep work has to be done with power washing and taping up the sides of the house.
Personal Tips:
If you are going to spray use wide tape to block off things that you don’t want sprayed. I used 1 inch, probably should use wider if the wind catches it you got it on your house.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. English Red EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit

Products Used

Concrete Patching Compound — Patch-Rx™ Repair

English Red EverStain Swatch — EverStain™ English Red

Hunter’s Haven: Kitchen Countertop Transformation with Acid Stain

Venture into the kitchen of a seasonal home turned hunting camp and witness a brilliant DIY transformation. The homeowner decided to create their own concrete countertops, choosing a striking blend of Coffee Brown, Desert Amber, and Seagrass acid stains. The result? Countertops that steal the show! Learn how trial, error, and embracing the unexpected led to this impressive result.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 180 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 40 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We wanted to upgrade the kitchen in our ‘Hunting Camp’/seasonal home, and decided to create our own concrete countertops. Through much trial and error, testing of concrete and colors, we are finally done! Many of our test pieces have become park bench for ourselves and our friends.
Included are before, during and after pictures, plus one of the first park benches.
For the countertops, we used acid stain in Coffee Brown, Desert Amber and Seagrass. Through the testing, I learned to go easy on the Coffee Brown and to not be afraid of the Seagrass! I also learned to ‘just walk away’ and let the acid stain do its thing without overdoing it.
We love the final outcome and want to thank Direct Colors for their continued help and urgent assistance at each step along the way! Your customer service is top notch!
Personal Tips:
I would recommend doing small test pieces before a big project to figure out what color combinations and techniques you like. It is so important to know that, to a very large degree, you cannot control the final outcome, but with research, practice, and patience, anyone can do this.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown DIY EverStain™
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™

Products Used

Basement Renovation with a Classic Touch

This project involved turning an old basement into an aesthetically pleasing living space using Malayan Buff, Avocado, and Seagrass stains. Visit Basement Renovation with a Classic Touch for more photos and details.

A freshly sanded and cleaned bare concrete basement floor, preparing for staining. — The basement's bare concrete floor after rigorous sanding and cleaning, setting the stage for transformation

The completed stained, sealed, and waxed concrete basement floor, boasting richly pigmented colors and a beautiful, glossy finish — The fully transformed basement floor - stained, sealed, and waxed to perfection, exhibiting a unique, organic beauty

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 15 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 700 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I built the house 20 years ago with no intention of using the basement are as living space. Fast forward 20 years and I changed my mind. I investigated having contractors come in and apply epoxy coating. I also purchased several gallons (different colors) of “concrete stain” from the local big-box hardware store. I applied sample areas on my floor to get a visual feel to see if that was what I wanted. I was not happy with it as it just appeared to be paint. I also did not like the “garage floor” look of the epoxy coatings offered by the contractors. While I had seen Direct Colors concrete stain pictures during my research, I knew it would be more work on my part, and I was hoping for something easy. This once-in-a-lifetime project had to be done right the first time, as there was not going to be a second. I bit the bullet (mentally) and decided to do the concrete stain so I would like the outcome.
The floor had not been damaged but there are two small settling cracks. I chose to not patch repair the cracks as they were tight and after reading that different mortars can have different colors, I preferred having the sight of a tight crack than color changes due to mortar. I’m glad I did; I like the look and it is hardly noticeable.
When I built the house 20 years ago, I used this basement area to stain my woodwork. In the process I spilled wood stain many places on the concrete. Therefore, I knew I would have to sand the concrete to get past the existing wood stain. I was unsure if I would do it as a wet-sand job, or a dry sanding, so I prepped the area by putting plastic up around the perimeter. I rented a floor sander with the concrete sanding disc at the local big-box hardware store and started sanding. At first I tried an area using water, knowing this would keep the dust down. But with the water I could not see the condition of the sanded area due to the slurry, then I tried sanding an area dry. I was much more comfortable seeing the floor when dry sanding. I had the basement window open with a fan in it pulling the air out of the house, a full face respirator, and I had a vacuum connected to the sander. About half-way through the sanding I noticed it was taking a lot of work to make any progress. I deduced the sanding disc was worn out and I removed it and returned to the hardware store for an exchange. As I only rented the machine for one day, I was worried about losing time to make the one-hour round trip for the new disc. After returning with the new disc and using it I was glad to have it! The sanding went so much better with the new disc and did a great job. At the completion of sanding, I swept and vacuumed the entire area, including the walls. This included removing the perimeter plastic (put up for wet sanding), as it had collected a lot of dust. I had the doorway from the basement to the upstairs plastic and taped off, but after going upstairs, I found that the plastic/tape job was not adequate, as the concrete dust managed to work its way upstairs into the living areas. So I went into action cleaning that up before it got ground-in.
With the floor swept and vacuumed (several times), I prepped the area for staining. This included new perimeter plastic. I chose three different color stains, Malayan Buff, Avocado, and Seagrass. I used three spray bottles, so I could work my way across the floor using all three, applying colors per my design. Again, with a fan in the window and a respirator, and now spiked sandals, I put the stain down. Having previously purchased the stain sample kit, I knew I wanted to wait the full time for as much color to burn into the concrete. The following day I rinsed and scrubbed the concrete and wet-dry vacuumed it up. I had a garden hose into the area to make it convenient, this worked well. While the floor was still wet I decided I wanted more color. After the floor dried, I went back and applied more stain in certain areas. And the next day rinsed and scrubbed the floor, then gave the floor a full day to dry. I checked for any residue and noticed the floor still had a significant amount of residue, so I rinsed and scrubbed again. After the third rinse and scrub the residue was no longer noticeable.
The following day I swept and vacuumed, then applied the first coat of sealant using a hardware store damp-type mop. As recommended, I applied the sealant in a north-south direction initially. Then on the second day I applied east-west. I had a considerable amount of sealant remaining, although I had purchased the recommended amount for my square footage. I believe I was just applying coats lighter than expected. After the second coat dried, I applied another north-south coat.
Two coats of wax on top of it finished it, and it is so much better than I could have dreamed. I am very glad I chose to do the concrete stain, and not paint or epoxy. The job did take some work on my part, but it was entirely worth it.
Personal Tips:
More/bigger fans when dry sanding.
Don’t sand unless you have to.
Drywall mud must be removed down to bare concrete.
Rinse and scrub the acid residue until the floor passes the white-glove test.
I was able to do a few hours a day or every other day. There was no rush to “get it done”.
The quantities recommended are fairly accurate.
Have a spare acid sprayer available. You don’t want to be in the middle of spraying and have an issue. Cheap insurance.

Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
3 x 1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
2 x 1 Gal. Avocado EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Seagrass DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

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Modern Marble-Style Acid-Stained Concrete Transformation

Seeking a modern and durable replacement for their old carpet and vinyl, the homeowners decided to go for a marble-style concrete acid stain for their living room, hallway, and kitchen. This project, which they hadn’t seen much of in their area, resulted in a beautiful, worn leather-like appearance that exceeded their expectations. Their experience offered key tips: renting a good floor polisher for older concrete, giving the acid ample time to react, using a shop vac and a squeegee for cleaning up after acid neutralization, allowing the sealer to completely process before waxing, and using a 3/8 roller instead of a sprayer for sealant application to avoid clogging.

A picture showing a kitchen with bare, cleaned concrete floors after vinyl removal, showing the raw state before the acid staining process begins. — Preparation phase: Kitchen floor stripped down to bare concrete, ready for the acid staining process.

A photo showcasing the finished kitchen floor displaying a unique, worn leather look after the application of the acid stain. — After the transformation: Kitchen floor with a stylish worn leather look thanks to the concrete acid staining process.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 900 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My wife and I had carpet that we were tired of, and wanted to replace it with something more modern that would be durable for 10+ years. We removed all the carpet we had in our living room and hallway and our vinyl in the kitchen to replace it with a marble style concrete acid stain. The acid stain was something we hadn’t seen in a lot of homes in our area but we’re impressed after doing more research so we felt it was the best option!
Personal Tips:
If your concrete is older and has paint/carpet adhesive rent a good floor polisher with a coating removal blade.Give the acid plenty of time to react to the concrete.A good shop vac was the biggest help. Especially when cleaning up after the neutralizing of the acid. With a squeegee to pull water.Take your time and allow the sealer to go through its entire process before waxing.Don’t use a sprayer for the sealer. The 3/8 roller is definitely the best option after having clogged two different sprayers trying to spray the sealer on. (Yes I removed the filters)
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
2 x 1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Black EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss
Other Products Used:
Floor polisher with coating removal tool
Shop vac
Angle grinder with diamond floor grinder blade (for the edges)
Squeegee (HUGE help with neutralizing)
Floor brush
Trim pad
Spike shoes
3/8 nap roller

Products Used

Black EverStain Swatch — EverStain™ Black

Carpet-to-Concrete Transformation: A New Look with Acid Stains

This project involved the removal of old carpeting and the careful preparation of the underlying concrete for a refreshing update. The homeowners sought a warm, earthy color scheme, so they opted for a blend of our Malayan Buff and Seagrass acid stains. Using the wet-on-wet technique, they achieved a vibrant and blended finish that transformed the floor. Despite the changing appearances at different stages, patience and trust in the process resulted in a beautiful end product.

Image of a room with bare concrete floor, prior to acid staining. — Before: The old carpet has been removed, revealing the untouched concrete floor awaiting transformation

Image of the same room after renovation, showcasing the new acid-stained concrete floor in Malayan Buff and Seagrass — After: The bare concrete has been skillfully transformed into an earthy and warm blend of Malayan Buff and Seagrass acid stain, creating an appealing and inviting space

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We removed the carpet and prepped the concrete prior to receiving the products. We wanted more of the brown colors with some of the seagrass blending in so we decided that the wet on wet technique would probably give us the look we were after. Once the color was on, we allowed it to sit around 5 hours then neutralized it.
Personal Tips:
We chose not to Etch the concrete. Take the time to really research everything on the website. It really helped the process go much smoother than we expected. Trust the process. Each stage the floor looked completely different but the end product is beautiful!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
1 Gal. Seagrass DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

New House, Vibrant Stained Floors

This project revolves around the construction of a new house, with an emphasis on creating stunning stained concrete floors throughout the property. The homeowners utilized a blend of Seagrass, Malayan Buff, and Coffee Brown EverStain acid stains to give the floors an aesthetically pleasing, unique character.

A photo displaying a bare, unprocessed concrete floor in a newly constructed house — The bare canvas: An untouched concrete floor ready for a transformative process.

A photo displaying the final look of the stained concrete floor, exhibiting a beautiful mix of colors — The final masterpiece: A beautifully stained, polished, and sealed concrete floor, adding character and warmth to the new house.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1800 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Building new house, stained floors thru out the house.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
5 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
4 x 1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
3 x 1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ Acid Stain
5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

Layering Concrete Acid Stain Colors

Numerous acid stain colors may be layered, blended or applied to the same concrete slab to produce an array of effects, ranging from a dreamy “washed” appearance to a mottled psychedelic finish. This particular DC customer removed an old stained carpet and replaced that with a layering of three acid stain colors. They really chose to embrace the imperfections on their 40-year-old slab of concrete!

Pet Friendly Acid Stained Concrete Floor — Pet friendly stained concrete floors

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1100 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We stained the concrete of our entire downstairs living areas. This included two living spaces, kitchen, entry and hallway. Initially, we used a generic water based stain and were not satisfied with the results. We researched and found Direct Colors and ordered the EverStain Concrete Acid Stain in Malayan Buff, Cola, and Seagrass. The end result was absolutely beautiful and exactly what we wanted,
Personal Tips:
Prep work is very important. If you want great results, you have to put in the work.
Our project and experience with concrete staining was fun. We were working with a +40 year old slab so we kept in mind that the acid would change the concrete in different and unexpected ways. We also embraced the imperfections in the concrete and liked the character those imperfections added to our end product.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Malayan Buff DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
3 x 1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Cola EverStain™ Acid Stain
5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

From Woodshop to Bedroom: A Concrete Flooring Makeover

This project is a creative transformation of a 35-year-old woodworking shop into a cozy bedroom. The aged concrete floor, featuring a variety of textures, colors, and blemishes, was given a fresh lease on life with our acid stains. Despite stubborn spots and variations in the stain uptake, the end result is a beautifully organic-looking floor. It took two rounds of staining, diligent cleaning, and the use of ‘accent’ colors to achieve the desired result. This transformation shows the versatility of acid stains and the beauty that can be brought out of old, imperfect concrete.

There are numerous ways to fix or “adjust” the color of concrete and other common concrete acid stain problems like fading, seal bubbling, and seal “ghosting”.

Neutralized and cleaned acid stained floors

Splashing the Cola did not work and some areas did not receive stain well

fixed-problem-1-cola-malayan-seagrass-everstain-concrete-stain-application-floor — After spraying a second coat of Malayan Buff over Cola splashes, much more to our liking!

cola-malayan-seagrass-acid-stained-bedroom-floors — Malayan Buff, Cola and Seagrass EverStain acid stains

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 6 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 350 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We converted a woodworking shop into a bedroom. The floors were 35 year old concrete with lots of variation, some cracks, paint smears, oil stains, and varnish. Good thing we wanted an “Organic” look since the concrete took the stain in a hugely varietal way!
We followed all instructions to clean and prepare the concrete, using soap, the CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher as well as many hours of scraping, sanding, etc.
But there were some spots that just refused to come up. So we used a few “accent” colors (from the sampler pack) to mask the problem areas.
One coat of Malayan Buff, then accent colors, then second coat of Malayan Buff. BUT! We should have sprayed on the Cola instead of dribbling it on! Seagrass worked out being “splashed” on but the Cola was too strong.
Also, there were places that the stain just didn’t take well. I had thankfully saved back one quart of the Malayan Buff, and after neutralizing and 11 rinses, we did another round of staining. I was much happier with the results after that.
Personal Tips:
2 people for the job is a must! One to be the Go-fer so you don’t have to keep putting on the shoes and shoe covers every time the water needs to be rinsed!
Invest in a really good mop system. We used a quick wring Cedar bucket and microfiber mop that could withstand the scrubbing.
We found it was important to clean that mop with soap after 3-4 mopping, as we would never have come up with clean enough water!
Overall with two beginners, we had 4 hours prep, 4 hours of hard trowel treatment plus mopping, 1 hour for each acid coating, 5 hours for neutralizing and mopping the first time, 2 hours for neutralizing the mopping the second time, and then just 1 hour or less for sealant coats (x2).
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
1 Gal. Malayan Buff DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
4 Oz. Seagrass EverStain™ Acid Stain
4 Oz. Cola EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

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A sunroom floor with a marbled effect created using Cumin and Wheat tints, resembling a pond.

Wheat Concrete Stain Photo Gallery

Explore stunning customer projects using Wheat concrete stain and sealer. Get inspired for your next golden-hued flooring transformation with Direct Colors. Start planning your DIY project today!

By Justin Richardson

Custom-Stained Sunroom Floor with Pond Design

This sunroom floor was transformed by blending two AcquaTint™ colors—Cumin and Wheat—using spray bottles to create a marbled, pond-like effect. As the tints settled, they merged to form a unique design. Small fish were hand-stained into the pattern before sealing with ProWax Polish™, completing the look of a serene pond.

Commercial Concrete Floor Design

This commercial space features a beautifully designed concrete floor, using a combination of Wheat and Auburn AcquaTint Tinted Sealers. The custom design incorporates smooth curves and vibrant hues, providing a polished, professional finish that enhances the entire environment.

Commercial concrete floor before staining — Before

Colored Concrete Sealer on Commercial Floor — Wheat & Auburn AcquaTint

Concrete Compass Designs

Wheat is a popular color among our customers for creating stunning concrete compass designs. Its warm, golden tones make it perfect for adding character and depth to decorative projects, from driveways to tabletops. Explore how Wheat stain brings these compass projects to life!

Concrete Driveway Compass Design

Stamped concrete compass design in warm tones, featuring Wheat, Black, Cafe Royale, Crimson, and Driftwood colors. — This stamped concrete compass design combines Wheat, Black, Cafe Royale, Crimson, and Driftwood stains, creating a beautiful and intricate focal point of a driveway

Colorful Compass Concrete Table Design

Concrete compass table design featuring Buff, Black, Fern Green, Goldenrod, and Wheat colors. — This vibrant concrete table design uses Buff, Black, Fern Green, Goldenrod, and Wheat stains to create a striking compass pattern, perfect for adding character to any space.

Driftwood, Cumin, Cafe Royale, Milano Red, Gray, Fern Green, Buff, Plum, Wheat concrete Antiquing Stain After Sealer — Driftwood, Cumin, Cafe Royale, Milano Red, Gray, Fern Green, Buff, Plum, Wheat Antiquing Stain after sealer

Driftwood, Cumin, Cafe Royal, Milano Red, Gray, Fern Green, Buff, Plum, Wheat before sealer application — Driftwood, Cumin, Cafe Royale, Milano Red, Gray, Fern Green, Buff, Plum, Wheat before concrete sealer

DIY Antiquing Stain Trial Kits

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Azure Blue Visions: Brilliant Blue Concrete Stain Ideas

Welcome to our “Azure Blue Visions” gallery, showcasing stunning projects using blue concrete stain. For a deep blue finish, we recommend using CitrusEtch™ concrete etcher before staining. From patios to countertops, explore these inspiring azure designs for your own home project!

By Justin Richardson

Ocean Oasis: A Nautical Garage Revamp with Azure Blue Acid Stain

In this project, an ordinary boat storage garage morphs into a maritime masterpiece, thanks to Azure Blue and Shifting Sand acid stains. The process began with CitrusEtch™ to prepare the concrete, ensuring optimal reaction of the acid stain. Miracle-Gro was then applied to intensify the oceanic blue hues. Paired with warm brown tones mimicking sandy shores, this transformed space is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also serves as an efficient spot for boat storage and maintenance.

Sealed garage floor with vibrant Azure Blue and Shifting Sand hues — Post-sealing magic: The sealer enhances the Azure Blue and Shifting Sand colors, turning this garage floor into a stunning oceanic masterpiece

Boat parked on the vibrant, newly-stained garage floor — The final look: Our oceanic masterpiece serves its purpose beautifully, housing the boat on a floor that mirrors the vibrant blues of the sea

Products Used

Shifting Sand EverStain Swatch — EverStain™ Shifting Sand

Vintage Slab Revival: A Beginner’s Journey in Acid Staining

This husband-and-wife project shows how beginners can tackle acid staining with success. Their 1967 slab was brought to life using Azure Blue, Shifting Sand, and Miracle Gro granules. Despite interruptions, they worked at their own pace, thanks to thorough prep, smart sprayer techniques, and water to enhance color. The result is a modern, vibrant revival of the old slab.

Raw concrete floor after grinding, ready for the application of acid stain

Concrete floor after Azure Blue and Shifting Sand stain application, prior to neutralization

Concrete floor after application of two coats of AcquaSeal Gloss, showcasing a polished finish

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 10 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Colors: Azure blue, Shifting Sand and miracle gro granules.
Fun project for my wife and I. Great products and instructional videos and articles made this an easy project for two beginners to acid stain game. Could’ve completed sooner however life still happens so we found good stopping points and was able finish at our convenience.
Interior room on a slab foundation poured in 1967.
Personal Tips:
Surface prep with diamond grinder that we rented. Start good finish good.
Sprayer technique for the stain gave us control yet not uniform. (Did not dilute in the sprayer however we did hand spray water bottle on the wet stain so it would “bleed” and spread more).
Kept the sprinkles miracle gro granules wet with Azure Blue stain and water bottle spray. Seems to me water helps with the color variations and concrete absorption, older concrete.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Azure Blue DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Qt. Shifting Sand EverStain™
Other Products Used:
Miracle Gro
Spray Bottle
Water

Products Used

Man Cave Transformation with Azure Blue Acid Stain

This customer removed old carpet, prepped the concrete, and applied Azure Blue acid stain with Miracle Gro for intense color accents. Cracks were highlighted with trial-size stains, and the project was sealed with a satin finish for a stunning final look.

Accented cracks on the concrete floor using different colors, with Azure Blue stain applied to the corners, showing the progress of the staining process. — Highlighting natural cracks in the floor with Malayan Buff and Desert Amber accent colors and applying Azure Blue stain to the corners

Second application of Azure Blue stain covering the entire bedroom floor, highlighting the rich, deep color and natural variations — Second coat of Azure Blue stain applied, bringing out rich tones and deepening the color throughout the floor.

Concrete floor cleaned, neutralized, and dried after acid staining, showing the preparation before sealing — Floor neutralized, cleaned, and ready for sealing after the acid stain application

Completed bedroom floor with two light coats of satin sealer applied, showcasing the vibrant Azure Blue finish and natural crack accents — Final result after two coats of satin sealer—vibrant Azure Blue with highlighted cracks, giving the room a stunning finish

Details & Tips

Project Info:

- Project Completed In: 15 day(s)
- Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
- Project Description:
  My son bought his own house and my wife gave me his room to make a man cave. It has some really old carpet in the bedroom and closet. I removed all the carpet and padding and scraped down the existing concrete to remove all the drywall and paint. A couple of wet mops to remove all the dirt and I used the citrus etch next. 3 wet mops after neutralizing the floor was clean and ready. I used azure blue for the majority of the floor and sprinkled some miracle grow to give more intense color. I also bought a 3 color trial size and accented the existing cracks in the concrete floor. Neutralized again and after another 3 or 4 wet mops to remove all residue, I used the satin sealer and applied 2 coats with the sprayer and a roller. Super easy to apply and the after photos look amazing!

Personal Tips:
When working inside, make sure your windows are open when applying the acid stain. A mask will help but a respirator is a better choice during the 20 minutes of stain application
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Azure Blue DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
EverStain™ Trial Kit: Desert Amber, Malayan Buff & Seagrass

Products Used

Morning Coffee Haven: A 1980s Patio Revived

This 1980s patio makeover offers inspiration for creating a serene coffee nook. After three days of cleaning to remove dirt, rust, paint, and drywall mud, the homeowner applied two coats of Azure Blue acid stain with a soft brush for an even, beautiful finish. Now, the transformed patio is a perfect spot to enjoy coffee any time of day.

Pre-transformation sunroom floor with evident wear and tear, including stains from dirt, rust, paint, and drywall mud — The patio's initial state, marked by years of use. Rust, paint, and mud stains tell the tale of its 1980's origin before the refurbishing process begins

Sunroom floor midway through transformation, showing the application of Azure Blue acid stain — The patio undergoes a color revival with the application of Azure Blue acid stain

Finished sunroom floor showing azure blue stain, sealer, and acrylic paint veining accents — Behold the transformed sunroom! The Azure Blue stain, veined accents from acrylic paint, and a shiny sealer breathe new life into this 1980s sunroom

EverStain™ Application

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 6 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 175 sq. ft.
Project Description:
1980’s patio remodel for a peaceful place to enjoy morning, afternoon, and evening coffee 😉 Concrete was thick with dirt and stained with rust, paint, and drywall mud. Prep was three days of intense cleaning.
Personal Tips:

Prep and clean the floor thoroughly as most things left on the concrete will be magnified under the product. I (lightly) hammered clumps of drywall mud for easy removal. A citrus paint stripper is great and really tough paint can be removed with a $1 bottle of acetone fingernail polish remover. I would not use CLR to remove rust spots. I think it resulted in a lighter color (chemical) reaction in the areas this was used. My concrete was old and thirsty. After the initial coat of sprayed on acid stain was mostly dry. I went back in with spiked shoe covers and applied a second coat and used a light circular scrubbing motion with a softish scrubbing brush. Be sure to read the safety profile on the solvent sealer and wear proper PPE. Spray a small test run of the sealer on some cardboard to prime the pump and adjust your nozzle for coverage preference. After the first coat of sealer has dried you can use a light coating of acrylic paint to cover small areas of imperfection or accent other areas of interest. The second coat of sealer goes on fast and seems to require less product. It dries beautifully and my husband was impressed with its durable appearance.

Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Azure Blue DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
Other Products Used:
Acrylic paint
Acetone
Dawn Soap

Products Used

Emerald Elegance: Living Room Transformation

This DIY transformation shows how moisture evaporation can create stunning color variations, adding depth to the azure hue. A beginner achieved a unique, durable, and easy-to-maintain living room floor that’s both beautiful and practical.

A woman applying Azure Blue Acid Stain to the concrete floor — Taking the DIY leap: The Azure Blue Acid Stain application process in action

Close-up of the wet Azure Blue Acid Stain showcasing its vibrant hue on the concrete surface — The initial application: Azure Blue Acid Stain presents a striking, uniform turquoise on the concrete

The fully cured and sealed floor, displaying a beautiful transition from initial uniform turquoise to rich, complex patterns — From turquoise to a masterpiece: The completed floor reveals an unpredictable and stunning color transition

Final photo of the completed room, showing the beautifully stained floor adorned with coordinating furnishings — Room completed: The Azure Blue Acid Stain floor perfectly complements the room's furniture and décor, creating a cohesive and stylish space

Details & Tips

Project Description: For this stunning project, a homeowner took on the challenge of transforming their living room with Azure Blue Acid Stain. Despite being a novice in the world of concrete staining, they embraced the process with passion and attention to detail. By diligently following Direct Colors’ instructions, they initially achieved a uniform azure hue. Unexpectedly, as the days passed, the stain began revealing intriguing, organic green and black patterns that enriched the overall design.

The secret to this transformation lay in the concrete slab’s inherent properties. Unbeknownst to the homeowner, moisture continued to evaporate from the slab even after the stain and sealant were applied. This slow release of moisture resulted in an unpredictable and stunning evolution of color, enhancing the original azure with deeper blue, green, and black shades.

Replicating this beautiful effect is not straightforward due to the unpredictability of the concrete’s moisture evaporation rate and the impact this has on color changes. For those looking to recreate a similar effect, a potential strategy is to apply the stain around the 30-day cure period of the concrete. However, keep in mind that the final outcome may not be exactly the same and could vary widely. Another technique to achieve more color depth is by applying water to the surface after staining, potentially resulting in darker hues in treated areas. As always, it’s recommended to experiment in a less noticeable area first to better understand the process and expected results.

Personal Tips:

Test water application on a hidden area first to understand the effect it will have on your concrete.
Applying the stain around the 30-day cure period could result in color evolution similar to this project.

Products Used

Porch Resurgence: From Carpeted Space to Stained Masterpiece

This project showcases the transformation of a porch, carpeted for 25 years, into a beautiful stained concrete oasis. The challenge of removing stubborn carpet glue required a cement grinder and patience, but the remaining glue spots were creatively incorporated into the design. The 65-year-old homeowner assures, if she can do it, anyone can!

Old carpeted porch before the transformation process — The porch, trapped under a 25-year-old carpet, awaits its makeover. The dated flooring is a stark contrast to the vibrant transformation ahead.

Concrete floor with carpet removed, in the process of grinding the stubborn carpet glue with a machine — Post carpet-removal, the concrete floor begins its revival journey as the persistent carpet glue is mechanically ground away

Application of Azure Blue acid stain, mixed with MiracleGro, on the porch floor using a pump sprayer — The azure transformation commences, with a pump sprayer administering a mix of Azure Blue stain and MiracleGro, enriching the concrete with a vibrant hue

Porch floor after application of Azure, Seagrass, and English Red acid stains — The color palette comes alive as Azure Blue, Seagrass, and English Red acid stains blend beautifully on the porch floor

Close-up view of a major crack in the porch floor, artfully integrated into the design using blue and black acrylics and later filled with epoxy — Masterfully camouflaging a major crack, the homeowner paints it with teal and black acrylics, creating a marbling effect that seamlessly blends with the floor's design. Once dry, epoxy is used to level the crack with the rest of the concrete, symbolizing the transformation of flaws into strengths

Sunroom concrete floor stained with Azure Blue, English Red, and Seagrass EverStain acid stains, then accented with teal, black, and cream acrylic paints and sealed with EasySeal Gloss

A woman applying ProWax Polish floor wax on the stained porch floor using a mop — Diligent application of ProWax Polish™ floor wax, ensuring the vibrancy and longevity of the stain

Sunroom concrete floor stained with Azure Blue, English Red, and Seagrass EverStain acid stains, then accented with acrylic paints

Details & Tips

Project Info:

- Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
- Estimate of Square Footage: 300 sq. ft.

Project Description:
I acid stained the concrete floor on my porch that had had indoor-outdoor carpeting on it for probably 25 years! The most difficult part of the process was removing the mastic from the previous carpeting – the owners of the house at the time had used a HUGE amount of glue to tack down the carpeting rather than installing tack strips. It required renting a cement grinder to remove the majority of the glue. There was glue that would not come completely off – even with chemical treatment. I sanded it smooth with the floor and ended up incorporating it into my design. After sanding I washed the floor with a degreaser then treated it with Hard Troweled Floor Pre-Treatment before applying Azure Blue EverStain™ Acid Stain and Seagrass EverStain™ Acid Stain with a pump sprayer, and accent lines of English Red EverStain™ Acid Stain with a squeeze bottle. I also sprinkled MiracleGrow to intensify the blue color. After 24-hours we neutralized it and rinsed thoroughly. Then I began applying acrylic paints (mostly teal, black and cream colors) diluted at 50% with water, using squeeze bottles and a spray bottle of water to “direct” color into various streams. This was to incorporate the glue spots and floor crack into the design and add pops of color in spots that took less of the stain. After everything was dry, I poured epoxy into the floor crack to level it with the cement, and epoxied a Canadian dollar coin into a chip that was in the floor, stenciling a small sunburst around it. After doing a few minor touch ups, I rinsed the floor again, allowed it to dry and applied EasySeal gloss sealer (2 coats). When dry, I finished up with 2 coats of ProWax Polish™ High Gloss Floor Wax.
Personal Tips:
You may find unanticipated flaws – especially if your concrete floor was previously carpeted or is old. We encountered carpet glue that would NOT come completely up and a huge crack that ran across the floor. I incorporated those flaws into my design. In the end, I was very pleased with the results. If this 65-year-old lady can do it, anyone can!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch ™Hard Troweled Floor Pre-Treatment
Spiked Shoes (1 Pair)
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Gal. Azure Blue EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Gal. English Red EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Gal. EasySeal™ Gloss Concrete and Paver Sealer
1 Gal. ProWav Polish ™High Gloss Floor Wax
>Other Products Used:
Cement degreaser, Miracle Grow, acrylic paints (mostly teal, black and cream) and epoxy to fill cracks.

Products Used

Elevating the Everyday: A Dual-Toned Laundry and Workout Space

In their second DIY acid staining project, the homeowner transformed a concrete slab into a vibrant laundry and workout space using Azure Blue and Coffee Brown EverStain™. Thorough prep ensured rich color absorption, and the sealed, polished result adds depth and character. Spiked shoes made the process even smoother, creating a striking, inviting space.

Man neutralizing and rinsing CitrusEtch solution from a concrete floor with a mop — A meticulous process: Neutralizing and rinsing the etching solution for a clean, ready-to-stain surface

Application of Azure Blue acid stain on a concrete floor — First color down: Azure Blue acid stain adds a soft color to the concrete floor

Concrete floor showing the chalky appearance of Azure Blue acid stain during the drying process — A crucial stage: The Azure Blue acid stain transforms to a chalky appearance as it dries, preparing for the vibrant reveal post-sealing

Application of Coffee Brown acid stain, creating a mottled effect on the Azure Blue base — Adding depth: Mottled application of Coffee Brown creates a striking contrast with the Azure Blue base

Concrete floor with drying Coffee Brown spots, highlighting the color variances — Seeing the results: As the Coffee Brown spots dry, the color variances start to show through

Neutralized and rinsed concrete floor — Post-neutralization: A pristine surface, waiting to dry for the sealing process

Concrete floor thoroughly dry and neutralized, prepped for the application of sealer — Our preparation pays off - the concrete floor, now fully dry and neutralized, stands ready for the sealer application

Concrete floor after application of ProWax Polish, giving a high-gloss finish — The final shine: ProWax Polish adds a luxurious high-gloss finish, enhancing the floor's overall appeal

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 300 sq. ft.
Project Description:
This is our second DIY acid stained concrete floor project and we are very pleased with the results! We took what felt like short cuts but only by NOT making the same mistakes as the first time around, like not wearing spikes when etching.😉 It took about a week to finish in between going to work, drying processes,
etc. We already had some materials left over from the first project; a gallon of sealer, half gallon of wax and spiked shoes so we only ordered the acid stain, etching solution, new sprayers and the degreaser/cleaner.The floor in this soon-to-be finished laundry/workout area (approx. 300 SQ. Ft.) is Azure Blue and Coffee Brown EverStain acid stain. We used AcquaSeal gloss sealer and finished with what I consider the key to floors that really pop; Satin ProWax Polish. We cleaned the surface thoroughly, using the cleaner and degreaser. Next we applied the etching solution followed by clean up after about an hour. The directions say 20 minutes but our floors were machine troweled so we left it on a little longer. Then the fun began. We applied the blue first and let it dry for about 5 hours. We decided to go sparingly on the brown and only used half of what we ordered. We didn’t cut either color with water. The coffee brown is a very rich color and definitely dominant. Perhaps we will use up our leftovers by staining the storage section of the basement.🤔(Our basement is sectioned off into 3 spaces; the 400 Sq. Ft. Rec room, 300 Sq. Ft. Laundry/work out area and a large 638 Sq. Ft. Storage area which could be converted into a garage).Back to explaining the project…We neutralized with a 2 gallon bucket of water and baking soda, pushing it with a sponge mop. We cleaned up with more cleaner and degreaser, first doing a couple rinses with a water hose before scrubbing it down. Total cleaning/rinsing took about 6 times as opposed to over 20+ the last time. After the floors were thoroughly dry, the first coat of sealant was applied. We used a sprayer and squeegee to spread it…pushing it mostly forward to limit marks or lines. The next day a second coat was applied. We finished up on Sunday by applying two coats of Direct Colors ProWax polish.
Personal Tips:
Wear spiked shoes during the entire etching, staining, sealing and waxing process.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Hard Troweled Floor Pre-Treatment
1 Gal. Azure Blue EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss DIY Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Gal. ProWax Polish ™ High Gloss Floor Wax

Products Used

Breathing New Life into a Concrete Bathroom Floor

This bathroom renovation used Azure Blue acid stain to refresh the concrete floor, adding a modern touch of color. While results may vary, acid staining is known for its durability and easy maintenance. Overall, the project successfully updated the bathroom’s appearance.

Products Used

Updating a 1950s Concrete Basement Floor

In this basement renovation, a homeowner updated a 400-square-foot concrete floor from the 1950s using Azure Blue acid stain from Direct Colors. The three-day project involved prepping the surface with Simple Green cleaner and a hard trowel to improve stain absorption. Although the non-porous concrete led to a lighter blue finish, the project successfully gave the basement a fresh, modern look.

Acid Stained Blue Basement Floor — Azure blue application

Stained concrete basement floor with Azure Blue EverStain acid stain — After sealing and waxing

Products Used

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.

A newly stained concrete floor in a barndominium office with a marbled pattern of azure blue and coffee brown acid stains — A closer look at the marbled concrete floor in this barndominium office, created by layering acid stains for a modern, rustic finish.

A barndominium office space with a concrete floor stained in a marbled pattern using azure blue and coffee brown acid stains — The barndominium office floor features a striking marbled pattern achieved with wet-on-dry layering of azure blue and coffee brown acid stains.

Products Used

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

Our customer wanted to add a pop of color to their game room and guesthouse floor. Using the veining technique with toilet paper and Miracle-Gro, they brightened EverStain Azure Blue for a unique finish. For details,, check out Guest House Floor Upgrade: Miracle-Gro and Azure Blue Acid Stain Veins Bring Color and Character to Concrete

Products Used

Sunroom Update: A DIY Project Featuring Acid Staining”

In this home renovation project, our customer set out to transform their sunroom by removing the old carpet, sanding and cleaning the concrete floor, and applying acid staining. The project took four days to complete and covered an estimated 104 square feet of space.

Concrete Floor Sunroom - Before — before

Azure Blue & Cola EverStain on Concrete Floor

Products Used

Updating a Restaurant Floor with Acid Staining

In this restaurant renovation, the customer applied a cement overlay to update 3,000 square feet, dividing it into sections over seven days. They used twice as much blue acid stain due to skipping the etching step, which would have allowed for deeper absorption and a more vibrant finish.

Products Used

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.

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.

Wet-on-wet technique with Malayan Buff and Azure

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.

4-everstain-acid-stain-patio-concrete-azure-blue-cola-floor-malayan-buff

3-everstain-acid-stain-patio-concrete-azure-blue-cola-floor-malayan-buff

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.

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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.

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Blue acid stain concrete dining room floor

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EverStain™ Seagrass Acid Stain: Customer Projects

Check out these amazing projects from our customers using EverStain™ Seagrass acid stain. With its cool blue-green tones, this stain can bring a fresh look to any concrete floor. Get inspired and see how you can transform your space!

By Justin Richardson

Barndominium Beauty: DIY Floor Transformation on a Budget

Turning half of a large metal building into a livable space was the mission. Wood or tile flooring was out of reach financially, but our EverStain™ Seagrass acid stain proved to be the perfect solution. With careful planning, persistence, and a vibrant choice of color, this DIYer not only highlighted the history of the old slab but added personal touches to it. Despite the project’s challenges, the new floor is a testament to creativity and determination, boasting durability to last for years to come.

Concrete floor prepped for acid staining, showing a light texture and subtle variations before stain application. — The concrete floor is prepped and ready for Seagrass acid stain, with a clean surface to ensure a smooth application.

Polished concrete floor with a glossy green finish after Seagrass acid stain application — After applying EverStain Seagrass, the floor is sealed to reveal a vibrant green hue with a sleek, polished finish

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 700 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I recently moved into half of a large metal building (I think ‘barndomimium’ is the applicable term) and have been turning it into a livable space one bit at a time. My last Big project was my floor- I couldn’t afford wood or tile, and I loved that with acid stain I would be able to not only let the damage that the slab had gone through before I moved in become part of the design, but actually highlight its history and add my own pieces to it (and pick a crazy fun color to do it in!!!). The process was also totally compatible with my skillset and schedule, and has the durability to fit the environment I live in.
Personal Tips:
Set out your timeline ahead of time- I made mine as soon as I placed my order and it made me accountable to get it done and do it well.
If you feel like you aren’t getting the results you want, don’t stress, keep going because it just gets better and better.
Flush your sprayer between layers of sealer! I opted to spray and then smooth with a roller and it gums it up if you don’t regularly let it sit in warm water.
If your spike shoes aren’t staying on- duct tape them! Being securely strapped in mad either so much easier.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish Gloss (2)
Other Products Used:
HDX 1 Gal. Multi Use Sprayer
HDX Painters Plastic
3/8″ Nap Roller
Quickie Floor Scrubber
Libman Foam Mop
Blue tape
Paint roller handle
Paint roller handle fixed length extension poll
Gunite Spiked Shoes

Products Used

Outdoor Porch Transformation

This 934 sq. ft. porch was the homeowner’s first attempt at acid staining. Despite being a beginner, the results exceeded expectations with EverStain Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff, and Seagrass stains, giving the porch a stunning new look.

An image of a spacious outdoor porch featuring acid stained concrete floors in shades of Malayan Buff and Seagrass. The scene displays an elegant outdoor kitchen setup in the background — Outdoor Porch Makeover: A well-equipped outdoor kitchen sits atop the newly stained concrete floor, blending natural hues of Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff and Seagrass

A picture of the outdoor porch showcasing the attractive acid stained concrete flooring — Versatile Outdoor Living: The acid stained concrete flooring in hues of Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff, and Seagrass enhances the aesthetic appeal of the porch

For best results, we recommend using our CitrusEtch™ product to properly prepare your concrete before applying the Seagrass stain. Keep in mind that the final color may vary depending on the original condition of your concrete.

Rustic Shop Floor with Seagrass Acid Stain and Coffee Brown Veining

This shop floor was acid stained with EverStain Seagrass, enhanced by Miracle Gro for vibrant blue tones, and combined with Malayan Buff and Coffee Brown for a rich marbled effect. The polished finish perfectly complements the rustic wood walls for a bold and unique design.

An indoor shop floor before acid staining, with smooth concrete prepped for application. — The shop floor is prepped with a smooth surface using CitrusEtch™, ready for the acid stain application.

Acid stain applied with vibrant blue and amber tones on the shop floor, showing the wet application stage. — Acid stain application of EverStain™ Seagrass, Coffee Brown, and Malayan Buff, with Miracle Gro enhancing the blue tones.

The shop floor with wet acid stain, drying and showing a more defined marbled pattern. — As the acid stain dries, the vibrant marbled patterns of Seagrass, Coffee Brown, and Malayan Buff start to emerge.

Final look of the stained shop floor with striking blue and brown marbling, polished to a high gloss. — Completed acid-stained shop floor with polished Seagrass, Coffee Brown, and Malayan Buff, creating a unique marbled effect enhanced by Miracle Gro.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 450 sq. ft.
Project Description:
This is a 16×30 room inside my shop.
Personal Tips:
Be sure and use the spike shoes. I didn’t on the citrusetch. I had to sand a few tire marks off my concrete after I had cleaned it. Some of the powder left from that left foot prints during the citrusetch.
Also, If you are going to use a pump sprayer to spray the chemical based sealer, it needs to have enough pressure to actually mist the solution. I used the $11 sprayers from Lowes and all it would do was spray in a stream. I ended up rolling it on.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
1 Gal. Seagrass DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss
Other Products Used:
Miracle Gro

Products Used

Sunroom Refresh: A Canine-Approved Makeover

The sunroom in this project was given a fresh update with our Malayan Buff and Cola stains, accented with touches of Seagrass. Not only has the makeover brought a new vibrancy to the room, but it’s also earned the approval of the household’s furry friend. This sunroom now serves as the perfect spot for leisurely lounging and enjoying the view outside.

Image of a beautifully finished sunroom with Cola stained concrete floor accented with Seagrass, reflecting sunlight — The finished sunroom: a sun-soaked haven boasting a stunning blend of Cola and Seagrass acid stains

Image of a dog sitting in the finished sunroom with a Cola and Seagrass stained concrete floor, gazing out the window — Our satisfied customer: the family dog, happily enjoying the view from the newly transformed sunroom.

Products Used

Achieving a Natural Marble Look with Acid Stain

This acid-stained concrete floor features a beautiful organic marble effect created by letting the stain pool naturally. By allowing the colors to blend and flow, the final result offers a layered texture that looks less “man-made” and more like natural stone.

Worker applying acid stain on the concrete floor, creating an organic pattern. — Applying EverStain Black, Malayan Buff, and Seagrass stains to create a natural, marble-like effect on the floor.

Acid-stained concrete floor with rich layers of brown, green, and black hues. — The concrete floor after the acid stain reaction, displaying a beautiful blend of colors and textures.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 480 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We had a raw concrete slab floor that had been sitting unsealed for about 1 year. This is a living room with quite a bit of foot traffic.We scrubbed the floor with simple green before applying the acid
I used a pump sprayer to apply the black and Malayan buff, alternating. I used a small hand spray bottle for the seagrass green color on top of the Malayan buff & black base.
Neutralized and then rinsed & wet vacuumed the water 3x.
Mopped another 4 rounds afterwards changing the water each time.
After 12 hrs of cure time, rolled on Acquaseal with a nap roller, 2 coats total.
3 coats of the ProWax polish with a microfiber mop.
Personal Tips:
WDon’t be afraid to let the acid pool and do its own flow & movement. I was going for an organic marble type of look, so I wish I had ordered a little extra product to make sure it was all pooling up in a way that looked natural and not too “man made” or sprayed on. That being said, after the reaction time it did develop into a really cool layered texture and didn’t look as much like a spray pattern as it did in the beginning. The more the colors blend, the more natural it looks in my opinion.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Seagrass DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Black EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss
Other Products Used:
Simple green (as a degreaser prior to applying acid)

Products Used

Multi-tone Acid Stained Basement Slab

This project involved the transformation of a new concrete basement slab in a newly built home. The slab, only two months old, was treated with a mixture of Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff, and Seagrass acid stains, then sealed for durability and shine. The result was a captivating multi-tone floor that added unique character to the basement space.

Woman applying three different acid stains - Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff, and Seagrass - onto the concrete basement floor using a pump sprayer — Application in progress: The homeowner uses a pump sprayer to evenly distribute the acid stains onto the basement floor

Concrete basement floor 12 hours after application of Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff, and Seagrass acid stains — Acid Reaction: 12 hours post-application, the acid stains begin to react with the concrete, creating a multi-tonal effect

Basement floor displaying a mild luster after the application of the first coat of wax — First Waxing: The basement floor shines mildly after the first layer of wax is applied, enhancing the multi-tone effect

Dual-Tone Floor Design in a Barndominium Master Suite

In this project, a casita’s master suite within a barndominium was refreshed with a floor makeover. Our Malayan Buff and Seagrass Acid Stains were expertly applied to create a striking, two-tone effect. The DIYer found success in using a pump sprayer for the sealer application, followed by a light touch of a moist paint roller to ensure an even finish. The result is a unique, eye-catching master suite floor that adds character to the barndominium.

A photo of a concrete floor stained wet-on-wet with the Malayan Buff accent color over on Seagrass base color acid stain — Malayan Buff and Seagrass acid stains applied using the wet-on-wet technique for a unique multi-layered acid staining effect

Allowing acid stain colors to react with concrete floor

A plain concrete barndominium floor transformed into a stunning, multi-layered and protected surface with acid staining and sealing

A photo of a dry concrete floor with the acid stain fully dried and ready to be neutralized before the final cleaning and rinsing process — Barndominium concrete floor with the acid stain fully dried and ready to be neutralized before the final cleaning and rinsing process

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Building a barndominium that consists of a casita on one side and the main house on the opposite side, this is the floor in the Master of the casita.
Personal Tips:
When it comes to the sealer, I found it best to spray on with a pump sprayer and then go over it with a moist paint roller with a light touch, to even it all out.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

Zen-inspired Garage Transformation

Embracing the calming influence of nature, this garage project leveraged Seagrass and Shifting Sand EverStain acid stains to create a serene, light green finish that reflects tranquility. The tranquil color palette of this project turned a regular garage floor into a Zen-inspired oasis, proving that even practical spaces can inspire peace and relaxation.

A view from the inside of a finished garage, light-green stained floor gleaming, with cars parked outside waiting for the sealer to cure — From inside the zen-inspired garage, we catch a glimpse of the vehicles patiently waiting outside as the floor sealer cures

The serene green finished garage interior viewed from outside, showcasing a wall-mounted bike rack and bicycles hanging neatly — Step into tranquillity: This finished garage blends practicality and aesthetics perfectly, its light green stained floor complementing the neatly mounted bicycles on the wall

Products Used

Modern Marble-Style Acid-Stained Concrete Transformation

In search of a durable and stylish alternative to their old carpet and vinyl, homeowners opted for a marble-style acid-stained concrete finish in their living room, hallway, and kitchen. The result? A stunning, worn leather-like appearance that surpassed expectations.

An image of a living room with bare, cleaned concrete floors, ready for the staining process. — Pre-stain stage: The living room floor cleared and prepped, anticipating the transformative acid stain.

A photo showing the living room floor post-application of the Black, Malayan Buff, and Seagrass EverStain acid stains — Mid-process shot: The living room floor showcasing the layering of Black, Malayan Buff, and Seagrass EverStain acid stains.

An image of the living room floor after the acid staining has been neutralized and cleaned, the floor appears dry — Post-neutralization stage: The living room floor displaying an interesting array of colors after neutralization and cleaning.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 900 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My wife and I had carpet that we were tired of, and wanted to replace it with something more modern that would be durable for 10+ years. We removed all the carpet we had in our living room and hallway and our vinyl in the kitchen to replace it with a marble style concrete acid stain. The acid stain was something we hadn’t seen in a lot of homes in our area but we’re impressed after doing more research so we felt it was the best option!
Personal Tips:
If your concrete is older and has paint/carpet adhesive rent a good floor polisher with a coating removal blade.Give the acid plenty of time to react to the concrete.A good shop vac was the biggest help. Especially when cleaning up after the neutralizing of the acid. With a squeegee to pull water.Take your time and allow the sealer to go through its entire process before waxing.Don’t use a sprayer for the sealer. The 3/8 roller is definitely the best option after having clogged two different sprayers trying to spray the sealer on. (Yes I removed the filters)
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
2 x 1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Black EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss
Other Products Used:
Floor polisher with coating removal tool
Shop vac
Angle grinder with diamond floor grinder blade (for the edges)
Squeegee (HUGE help with neutralizing)
Floor brush
Trim pad
Spike shoes
3/8 nap roller

Products Used

Transforming an Old Slab into a Beautiful Cabin Floor

In this DIY project, a 10-year-old slab was brought back to life in a new log cabin kitchen/dining area. The DIYer used our Malayan Buff, Seagrass, and Black acid stains in a random pattern to get a stunning, unique look. The process involved lots of stain, plenty of water for rinsing, and a final seal with our high gloss acrylic sealer. The end result? A gorgeous, unique floor that’s ready for many more years of use.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 800 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Hi! I couldn’t be more pleased with your products.
My project is our new construction log cabin. The photos I’m sending are of the kitchen/dining room area.
We took over construction and the slab is about 10 years old.
After cleaning it thoroughly I bought the test kit of the 3 colors I was interested in, (Malayan Buff, Seafoam green, and Black), and tested an area that would be under the island.
With sprayers and my fashionable spiked shoes, I first put down the Malayan buff, then followed with the green, then sparingly with the black.
I did this all wet on wet so the colors would mottle together.
I did a second coat over the first, trying to keep over the same colors with each.
I figured that since I was doing random patterns it wouldn’t be a problem to me if I screwed up. It was fun!
After it dried, ( it was a couple of days before I could get to the neutralizing),
I mixed baking soda with water (1-2 tablespoons to each gallon.
Then I walked around with spikes on and just dumped gallons and gallons of the baking soda all over the floor and let it sit for a bit.
Then I got out the wet vac, put plastic bags over my feet, and wet-vacuumed it all up.
Then I rinsed with plain water 3 more times, and vacuumed up the water each time.
When dry, (I waited a couple days), with Direct Colors high gloss acrylic sealer, I sealed it using a sprayer. I sealed it with 2 coats. I used a paint roller for the second coat, as a I feel it went on more evenly.
The floor came out beautifully and when the other half of the downstairs is finished I will be doing another 800 square feet in the living room area. For this I will be adding some of the Cola color, to the other 3 colors I used and can’t wait to do it again!
Personal Tips:
1st Tip: Don’t be afraid to use lots of the stain, I feel like I went too light with the first coat. I ended up really liking how the green was coming out, so I went crazy with it on the second coat.
2nd Tip: Rinse with lots of water after neutralizing. At least 3 times. I feel this was key to a great seal when dry.
3rd Tip: I’m not using a sprayer for the high gloss acrylic sealer on the half of the house, I’m using a regular paint roller, (which I bought a long handle for).
Just make sure you buy good ones that say they won’t shed.
It was much easier and more even.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
5 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
5 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ Acid Stain
5 Gal. Black EverStain™ Acid Stain
5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss
Other Products Used:
Simple plastic lawn/garden sprayers
Spiked shoes
Protective paper for walls,
Painters tape
Baking soda
Paint roller with long handle

Products Used

Resilience Through Renovation: A Flood-Inspired Concrete Staining Project

When their house was devastated by Hurricane Ian, these homeowners decided to turn the tragedy into an opportunity. Instead of traditional flooring, they chose concrete staining for cost-effectiveness, durability, and a chance to make their floors even more beautiful than before. Using Seagrass and Black from Direct Colors, they captured the memory of the ocean waters that once flooded their property. With good preparation and patience, they were able to transform their space and make it through the storm.

Image of a flood-damaged home interior with removed carpet and plank flooring, revealing a bare, untreated concrete floor. — Hurricane Ian's aftermath: our home with the carpet and plank flooring removed, revealing the bare concrete beneath

Image of a renovated home interior featuring a beautifully stained concrete floor in hues of Seagrass and Black — Our transformed living space, boasting a stunning Seagrass and Black stained concrete floor

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We needed a new flooring solution after our house was flooded from Hurricane Ian.Like everyone else in our neighborhood we had to remove all carpet and plank flooring.And replacing what was previously there just didn’t seem like a good option. Putting wall to wall tile was just too costly.
And because everyone else in our community was in the same boat, getting a contractor to our place was already months out.
So in an effort to rebuild our home back better and stronger concrete staining looked like the best option in every category.Cost, Durability, and hopefully we could purse make the floors more beautiful than before.
Never having done something like this before we chose Direct Colors because their website had all the information we needed to feel secure the we could complete this project ourselves
We choose SeaGrass and Black as a reminder that the ocean waters had washed through our property. Hoped to capture the moment forever in concrete as a reminder to us how powerful nature is and what we are enduring to rebuild.
It wasn’t without effort, or requiring us to learn new things, but nothing in life that’s worth something is easy.
We have made it through the rain, and made our place better than before.Thanks Direct Colors for helping us through this difficult time.
Personal Tips:
The better the prep work you do, the better the results
Will take longer than you might think to do it right
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
5 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Black EverStain™ Acid Stain
5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

Carpet-to-Concrete Transformation: A New Look with Acid Stains

Image showing the application of Malayan Buff and Seagrass acid stains on the concrete floor using the wet-on-wet method — Step by Step: The application of Malayan Buff and Seagrass acid stains, using the wet-on-wet technique for a unique blended effect

Image showing the concrete floor after 4 hours of reaction time with the acid stains, before neutralization — Progress Update: The floor after allowing the Malayan Buff and Seagrass acid stains to react for 4 hours, with colors deepening and pattern emerging, before the neutralization process

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We removed the carpet and prepped the concrete prior to receiving the products. We wanted more of the brown colors with some of the seagrass blending in so we decided that the wet on wet technique would probably give us the look we were after. Once the color was on, we allowed it to sit around 5 hours then neutralized it.
Personal Tips:
We chose not to Etch the concrete. Take the time to really research everything on the website. It really helped the process go much smoother than we expected. Trust the process. Each stage the floor looked completely different but the end product is beautiful!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
1 Gal. Seagrass DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

Basement Renovation with a Classic Touch

This project involved turning an old basement into an aesthetically pleasing living space using Malayan Buff, Avocado, and Seagrass stains. After meticulous preparation, including sanding, vacuuming, and staining, the result was a uniquely patterned concrete floor. Multiple rinses and scrubs were needed to remove residue, followed by sealant and wax applications for protection. Despite the hard work, the stunning outcome made it all worthwhile. The homeowner advises extra fans during dry sanding, thorough residue cleaning, and keeping a spare acid sprayer on hand.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 15 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 700 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I built the house 20 years ago with no intention of using the basement are as living space. Fast forward 20 years and I changed my mind. I investigated having contractors come in and apply epoxy coating. I also purchased several gallons (different colors) of “concrete stain” from the local big-box hardware store. I applied sample areas on my floor to get a visual feel to see if that was what I wanted. I was not happy with it as it just appeared to be paint. I also did not like the “garage floor” look of the epoxy coatings offered by the contractors. While I had seen Direct Colors concrete stain pictures during my research, I knew it would be more work on my part, and I was hoping for something easy. This once-in-a-lifetime project had to be done right the first time, as there was not going to be a second. I bit the bullet (mentally) and decided to do the concrete stain so I would like the outcome.
The floor had not been damaged but there are two small settling cracks. I chose to not patch repair the cracks as they were tight and after reading that different mortars can have different colors, I preferred having the sight of a tight crack than color changes due to mortar. I’m glad I did; I like the look and it is hardly noticeable.
When I built the house 20 years ago, I used this basement area to stain my woodwork. In the process I spilled wood stain many places on the concrete. Therefore, I knew I would have to sand the concrete to get past the existing wood stain. I was unsure if I would do it as a wet-sand job, or a dry sanding, so I prepped the area by putting plastic up around the perimeter. I rented a floor sander with the concrete sanding disc at the local big-box hardware store and started sanding. At first I tried an area using water, knowing this would keep the dust down. But with the water I could not see the condition of the sanded area due to the slurry, then I tried sanding an area dry. I was much more comfortable seeing the floor when dry sanding. I had the basement window open with a fan in it pulling the air out of the house, a full face respirator, and I had a vacuum connected to the sander. About half-way through the sanding I noticed it was taking a lot of work to make any progress. I deduced the sanding disc was worn out and I removed it and returned to the hardware store for an exchange. As I only rented the machine for one day, I was worried about losing time to make the one-hour round trip for the new disc. After returning with the new disc and using it I was glad to have it! The sanding went so much better with the new disc and did a great job. At the completion of sanding, I swept and vacuumed the entire area, including the walls. This included removing the perimeter plastic (put up for wet sanding), as it had collected a lot of dust. I had the doorway from the basement to the upstairs plastic and taped off, but after going upstairs, I found that the plastic/tape job was not adequate, as the concrete dust managed to work its way upstairs into the living areas. So I went into action cleaning that up before it got ground-in.
With the floor swept and vacuumed (several times), I prepped the area for staining. This included new perimeter plastic. I chose three different color stains, Malayan Buff, Avocado, and Seagrass. I used three spray bottles, so I could work my way across the floor using all three, applying colors per my design. Again, with a fan in the window and a respirator, and now spiked sandals, I put the stain down. Having previously purchased the stain sample kit, I knew I wanted to wait the full time for as much color to burn into the concrete. The following day I rinsed and scrubbed the concrete and wet-dry vacuumed it up. I had a garden hose into the area to make it convenient, this worked well. While the floor was still wet I decided I wanted more color. After the floor dried, I went back and applied more stain in certain areas. And the next day rinsed and scrubbed the floor, then gave the floor a full day to dry. I checked for any residue and noticed the floor still had a significant amount of residue, so I rinsed and scrubbed again. After the third rinse and scrub the residue was no longer noticeable.
The following day I swept and vacuumed, then applied the first coat of sealant using a hardware store damp-type mop. As recommended, I applied the sealant in a north-south direction initially. Then on the second day I applied east-west. I had a considerable amount of sealant remaining, although I had purchased the recommended amount for my square footage. I believe I was just applying coats lighter than expected. After the second coat dried, I applied another north-south coat.
Two coats of wax on top of it finished it, and it is so much better than I could have dreamed. I am very glad I chose to do the concrete stain, and not paint or epoxy. The job did take some work on my part, but it was entirely worth it.
Personal Tips:
More/bigger fans when dry sanding.
Don’t sand unless you have to.
Drywall mud must be removed down to bare concrete.
Rinse and scrub the acid residue until the floor passes the white-glove test.
I was able to do a few hours a day or every other day. There was no rush to “get it done”.
The quantities recommended are fairly accurate.
Have a spare acid sprayer available. You don’t want to be in the middle of spraying and have an issue. Cheap insurance.

Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
3 x 1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
2 x 1 Gal. Avocado EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Seagrass DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

The Kintsugi-Inspired Acid Stained Concrete Floor Transformation

A unique flooring project that converted an old carpeted game room and bedrooms from a 1978 house into an inspiring art studio with acid stained concrete. The floor, which revealed significant challenges upon removing the carpet, including a major crack and multiple adhesive residues, was turned into an artistic masterpiece. Inspired by Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, the homeowner chose to accentuate the floor’s imperfections instead of hiding them. Acid stains in Desert Amber, Seagrass, Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff, and Black EverStain were used to create a multi-tone effect, while gold leaf was applied to the crack to highlight its presence, symbolizing resilience and transformation. The project serves as a tangible representation of the homeowner’s art classes, which focus on acknowledging and turning life’s struggles into something beautiful. The final result is a visually stunning, one-of-a-kind floor that resonates with every visitor.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: Over 3 months
Estimate of Square Footage: 600 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I recently bought a house built in 1978 that had very light carpet for the game room and 2 bedrooms. Having a dog and knowing I was going to use the game room as my art studio, I knew before I moved in that the carpet would have to go. From a cost perspective as well as aesthetic and functionality, I knew I wanted to go with stained concrete. I also wanted to use gold leaf on any cracks as my own version of kintsugi, the Japanese practice of repairing broken pottery covering the mended areas with gold as a way to honor the journey of the piece.But I had no idea what the concrete looked like under the carpet until AFTER I moved in and had to pull back the carpet for needed structural repairs. It was then I discovered a HUGE crack and long story short, I needed to get stitches to hold the slab together to protect against further movement. The concrete was so messed up as well that I began to second guess my decision to acid stain. But I had a vision and started in on the prep.My floor had everything wrong with it and prep was brutal. I tried mechanical and solvent methods to remove all the things that were on it, but was unsuccessful on the carpet pad adhesive, some of the high heat paint, and a few other things of questionable origin. Again, I began to despair of my decision because I couldn’t get it prepped to look as nice as the pics showed on the website. But there was no turning back at this point, so just did my best and went for it.And I must say, I worried too much! I did use multiple colors of stain which provided camouflage for some of the areas I struggled with and it turned out beautifully! I decided to highlight the stitched crack making it more dramatic. I added some acrylic paint after the first layer of sealer to even some areas out and also did the gold leaf on the crack.It’s a one of a kind floor that fully captures what happens in this room. I have art classes to help people process their brokenness, seeing their life from a higher perspective that shows how all the broken and hard can be something beautiful. It’s a great visual aid!
Personal Tips:
1. Do your best on prep, but don’t stress. I totally over thought it
2. Have a helper. I did it by myself and it was A LOT
3. I filled some divots with concrete patch and some with epoxy. They will both take the stain differently but I think I would do all patch next time as the epoxy is too shiny compared to the rest of the floor.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
2 x 1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Satin Concrete Sealer
1 Qt. Seagrass EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Qt. Coffee Brown EverStain™ Acid Stain
1 Qt. Malayan Buff EverStain™ Acid Stain
4 Oz. Black EverStain™ Acid Stain
2 x 1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin
Other Products Used:
Acrylic art paint in Yellow Oxide, Raw Sienna, Burnt Sienna, and Burnt Umber that blended with my stain colors nicely.Imitation gold leaf sheets and special gold leaf adhesive and sealer (I would go with gold leaf paint if I did it again)

Products Used

Loft Concrete Floor

The concrete floor of this loft really stands out in this space! We love how the walls are crisp white so that the acid stained floor can be the main focal point.

Marbled Acid Stained Concrete Floor — Wet on wet staining technique using Coffee Brown & Seagrass EverStain acid stains

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Bathroom Floor

Wow, does that seagrass and coffee brown concrete stain complement that bathtub or what?

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New House, Vibrant Stained Floors

A photo showing Malayan Buff, Coffee Brown, and Seagrass acid stains applied on the bare concrete floor — The transformation begins: Acid stains in Malayan Buff, Coffee Brown, and Seagrass breathe new life into the concrete floor.

A photograph showing the stained concrete floor after the acid stains have reacted, have been neutralized, and cleaned — The stained concrete floor after the acid stains have reacted, have been neutralized, and cleaned

For Project Tips & Details

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1800 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Building new house, stained floors thru out the house.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
5 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
4 x 1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
3 x 1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™ Acid Stain
5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

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Lakehouse Basement Floor Facelift

Whether you’re inspired to replicate a marble effect or match concrete stain colors with your existing home decor, testing your intended slab before committing to a fully-scaled project is essential. If you’re anything like this DC customer, you might find yourself addicted to the process of acid staining. Before you know it, your whole house and yard will be covered!

Black, Malayan Buff and Seagrass EverStain

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 300 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I stained a basement floor of our newly constructed lake house. The concrete was finished with a smooth service but, nothing beyond that. I used Malayan Buff, Black and Sea Grass to create a marbled effect with a high gloss acrylic sealer. I took my time and allowed a lot of drying time between layers of sealer which is why it took 5 days. I absolutely love the end results! As a matter of fact I already have my next project planned (outdoor concrete slab patio).I love the process and am thinking of ways to use the product beyond the customary floor treatments! I’m thinking concrete statutes, figurines, stepping stones, etc. The possibilities are endless!
Personal Tips:
I used a lot of water to blend the three colors to make them look seamless. I used tank sprayers for the stain and had one just for water. I’d spray the stain. Then ‘feather’ any isi or lines with water. When I applied the next color I would use the water to blend the two stains. Knowing the results were unpredictable depending on type of concrete, finish, etc. made me a little nervous to begin with. Once I started the motions just seemed to flow. Again, I absolutely love the results!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Malayan Buff DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Seagrass EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Black EverStain™
Other Products Used:
Roller pad (paint roller) with a long broom type handle, acid appropriate sprayers, Scotch brand tape/plastic around baseboard & up part of wall, mop and mop bucket and Cat Track shoe covers (spiked).

Products Used

Acid Stained Concrete Basement Floor — Seagrass EverStain acid stain Sealed with AcquaSeal

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Malayan Buff and Seagrass concreter planter

Green Concrete Projects with EverStain Avocado

Look at different ways to use our Avocado Green stain on concrete. See pictures of what others have done and get ideas for your project. To make sure you get it right, we suggest using our CitrusEtch™ product to get your concrete ready before you put on the Avocado stain. Remember, your final color might look a bit different depending on your starting concrete.

By Justin Richardson

Barn to Beauty Parlor: Paws & Reflect on Green Marvel!

From hay and hooves to brushes and bows, this transformed barn now shines as a pet grooming haven. What once were plain concrete floors now gleam with a marbled green brilliance, thanks to an EverStain™ Malayan Buff base with a splash of Avocado on top. Seal, and voilà: a rich, vibrant floor fit for our furry friends!

A person carefully applying EasySeal solvent-sealer on the floor, equipped with a mask to protect against fumes - Avocado-Malayan-EverStain — Safety First: Ensuring a glossy finish while staying protected from the fumes

A vibrant green marbleized floor surrounding the designated stall areas for dogs — Stall Sophistication: The dog stalls now rest on a green marble dream, thanks to Avocado and Malayan Buff

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 900 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Etched, sanded, rinsed, Malayan buff base, and avocado on top then sealed 🙂
Personal Tips:
The stain will be much richer after sealing and if sanding is necessary, adding a little water is so helpful.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
3 x 1 Gal. Avocado EverStain™
5 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
OxiGrip™ Anti-slip Additive

Products Used

Barn Transformation with Avocado EverStain™ Acid Stain

A straightforward but effective barn project using the Avocado EverStain™ Acid Stain. The key to achieving a successful result was thorough cleaning prior to the application. The rustic charm of the barn was wonderfully enhanced by the rich Avocado hue.

Pre-stain photo displaying the original condition of the barn's concrete floor — The starting point – a simple barn floor awaiting transformation

Image showing the cleaned and neutralized stained concrete floor, ready for the next step — Post-stain application – the barn floor takes on a new character with Avocado EverStain Acid Stain

Picture illustrating the process of applying the high-gloss sealer on the stained concrete floor — Applying the finish – a high-gloss sealer enhances the stain's color and durability

Close-up image of the high-gloss sealer immediately after application, reflecting the bright sheen — Just-sealed – showcasing the radiant glow of the high-gloss sealer on the stained floor

Products Used

Custom Outdoor Basketball Court Revamp

This project involved transforming an outdoor basketball court into a unique, eye-catching space using DecoGel Coffee Brown for precise line detailing and EverStain Avocado acid stain for the court surface. The process included staining, neutralizing, and sealing the court to ensure durability and a professional finish.

A man rinsing off the DecoGel Coffee Brown stain from the lines of a concrete basketball court. — A man rinsing off the neutralized DecoGel Coffee Brown stain from the lines of a concrete basketball court.

A wide view of the basketball court with the EverStain Avocado acid stain processing, showing a vibrant greenish hue — The basketball court with EverStain Avocado acid stain processing and drying

A man applying a sealer to the basketball court surface using a roller, ensuring the stain is protected — Applying the final coat of sealer to the stained basketball court, locking in the color

The finished basketball court, featuring clear, sharp lines and a warm, golden-brown surface — The finished basketball court, showcasing the beautifully avocado stained and sealed surface, ready for action

Tranquil Transformation: Converting a Garage into a Massage Studio

A massage therapist converted a storage and laundry room into a serene home studio by revamping the concrete floor. Inspired by Direct Colors’ videos and gallery, the result is a beautiful, professional space that has even inspired friends to start their own staining projects.

Prepping the space by grinding down the concrete floor and patching holes in the converted garage before applying the stain

The finished concrete floor with a mix of earthy tones after sealing, with bikes and tools visible in the room — The completed project showing the rich, warm tones of the sealed concrete floor

A concrete floor with large splotches of green stain applied, with a sprayer and footwear visible on the floor. — Applying Avocado stain splotches as accent colors on the prepared concrete floor, adding unique texture and depth

The concrete floor after blending Avocado with Malayan Buff stain, creating a vibrant and artistic marbled effect — Blending Avocado with Malayan Buff stain to create a striking marbled finish on the floor, before neutralizing

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 312 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Hello! There’s a converted garage in my house that has been used as storage and laundry. I’m a massage therapist and am redoing the room to use as my home studio. The whole floor was covered in ceramic tile. I ripped up all the tile and use a grinder to smooth out the surface and patch up holes. Once the floor was ready, I used Avocado splotches as an accent color. I then blended in Malayan Bluff. I let the first coat dry for about 16 hours, before applying a second coat. I let that dry for about 20 hours and then neutralized. Once that was totally dry, I applied 2 coats of the Sealer, allowing 8 hours between applications.
I found the videos from Direct Colors to be so informative and helpful – and the gallery was helpful for drawing inspiration. I’m so happy with how my floor turned out – and now I have friends asking me to coach them through doing their own staining! Thank you soooo much!
Personal Tips:
Make sure you “rough up” the surfaces, so that the colors can take in different tones.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Avocado EverStain™ & Satin™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & Satin™ Gloss Kit

Products Used

Complete Walkout Basement Overhaul

This project involved the transformation of an unfinished walkout basement into two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a large entertainment/game room. Despite initial setbacks with concrete grinding dust, footprint etchings, and intensive cleaning, the floor was eventually prepared and layered with Avocado EverStain™ Acid Stain, achieving a fresh, unique look. Key tips from this project include experimenting with different stain samples and considering power equipment rental for larger areas.

Image of an untreated, raw concrete floor in an unfinished walkout basement — The starting point - the concrete floor in an unfinished walkout basement

Photo showcasing the walkout basement floor after application of Avocado EverStain Acid Stain — Post-application – the Avocado EverStain Acid Stain infusing life into the concrete floor

Two coats of Avocado EverStain waiting an hour between coats — Post-application – the Avocado EverStain Acid Stain infusing life and vibrancy into the concrete floor

Post-application – the Avocado EverStain Acid Stain infusing life and vibrancy into the concrete floor — Sealed and sleek - the floor showing off its satin sealer finish

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 6 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Unfinished walkout basement. It will be two beds, two baths, and a large entertainment/game room. I ordered the acid stain test kit and did the floor under where the tub will go, under the vanity and in the utility closet. While I was doing my first scrub, I noticed my curbless shower was not going to drain right. Little did I know how much extra work this would cause. I tarped off the bathroom and set fans to negative pressure the room. The air born concrete grinding dust was kept in the room, but I did track it out of the room of my feet .I then went back to scrubbing, and vacuuming and scrubbing and vacuuming, and scrubbing and vacuuming. That concrete dust is pretty stubborn to get up. I was finally satisfied with how clean the floor was, and moved on to the next step. The slab was power trowel when it was poured about a year ago. I used the hard trowel surface prep to etch the floor. This was pretty easy with the pump up sprayer. Then rinse and vacuum. Here is where the true trouble from my day of re-sloping the shower would come in. Every foot print where I tracked concrete dust from the day of grinding had been etched into my floor!! And i walked everywhere in the basement that day, the whole floor was covered in foot prints. The floor was spotless before I etched. Not a hint of anything.Tired and dejected, I thought about LVP flooring. OK, only for a little bit.I tried a few different methods of removing the footprints. It was possible to scrub them off, but the amount of effort it took, for even my 1sqft test area was not reasonable to do over the whole floor.
I tried sanding them off. I just spend a day vacuuming up dust, so I had a spray bottle of water in one hand and a palm sander in the other. This worked pretty well, but I could use much water without risking damaging my sander. It would leave behind a thick cement slurry, which had to be diluted with water, then vacuumed up quickly. If it dried at all, I’d be back where I started with a haze instead of a footprint.I ended up renting a hard floor scrubber. It still took about 8 hrs. of scrubbing and 4 passes get the footprints and any remaining haze off the floor. WOOHOO, crisis averted, I can now do the fun part.I loaded up the sprayer with the avocado acid, and started spraying. I did one coat and waited a hour before donning my spiky shoes for a second coat. My coverage on the first coat was a little short, so I had to dilute the second coat about 2 parts acid to 1 part water to ensure I would cover the entire floor.I waited about 8 hrs. then dumped 50 gallons of baking soda water on my floor. I vacuumed this up then did one quick pass with the floor scrubber with the brushes set to their lightest contact pressure. A quick check after this showed water would not pick up any more color.I set some fans up, returned the scrubber and got lunch.Once dry I rolled on the acrylic satin sealer. I did not care for the spiky shoes, so i just planned my path carefully so I could stay off the wet sealer, not leave an edge to dry, and leave me an exit off the floor. Three coats later and I’m done! My coverage with the sealer was much greater than the 200 sq. ft. gallon, hence the three coats.
Personal Tips:
We order the three sample colors. Based on pictures on the website, it was really only between two colors. We picked a third, just because the kit has three. The third “throwaway” color ended up being our favorite. If you are doing more than about 400 sq. ft, consider renting some power equipment.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
2 x 1 Gal. Avocado EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
5 Gal. Avocado EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
3 x 1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

Patina-Inspired Shop Floor Transformed with EverStain™ Avocado

A novice acid stain user transformed his shop floor using a layered technique with Malayan Bluff and Avocado from EverStain™, achieving a patina look that perfectly complements his rusted walls.

An image depicting the neutralizing and cleaning stage on a stained concrete floor — The crucial neutralizing and cleaning process underway

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 625 sq. ft.
Project Description:
First time working with acid stain and I learned a lot through the process. My shop floor turned out awesome! I was going for a patina look with the rusted walls and nailed it!
Personal Tips:
First, study the preparation tips outlined in the direct colors how to guide. Make sure you are prepared and have the time to follow each step to get the desired results.
Second, study the application and dry time in the how to guides to make sure you have the time to spray and neutralize within the timeframe recommended for the chosen colors ( I didn’t realize different colors had different dry times and ended up out in my shop neutralizing and cleaning till midnight one night.
Lastly, Don’t be discouraged by what the floor looks like before sealing. It will gain its color with the sealer. I thought mine was going to turn out terrible until I got the sealer on it!
DONT FORGET THE SPIKE SHOES AND USE THEM DURING ETCHING SO YOU DO NOT HAVE FOOTPRINTS TO CLEAN UP AND SAND.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
3 x 1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Avocado EverStain™
Other Products Used:
Harbor freight 1.25 gallon sprayer
Spike shoes from amazon.

Products Used

Basement Renovation with a Classic Touch

A concrete basement floor in the process of staining, featuring Malayan Buff & Avocado base colors and Seagrass acid stain accents — Application of Malayan Buff & Avocado base colors with Seagrass accents, initiating the staining process

A fully stained basement floor, after allowing the acid stains to react overnight — The floor after an overnight stain reaction, revealing a burst of deep, lively colors

The stained concrete basement floor after application of a clear, glossy sealer enhancing the stain colors — Post-sealer application on the stained floor, adding a protective layer and enhancing the color vibrancy

A close-up view of the sealed and waxed stained concrete basement floor, showing a lustrous finish — The floor after waxing, offering a shiny finish and additional protection to the stained concrete

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 15 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 700 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I built the house 20 years ago with no intention of using the basement are as living space. Fast forward 20 years and I changed my mind. I investigated having contractors come in and apply epoxy coating. I also purchased several gallons (different colors) of “concrete stain” from the local big-box hardware store. I applied sample areas on my floor to get a visual feel to see if that was what I wanted. I was not happy with it as it just appeared to be paint. I also did not like the “garage floor” look of the epoxy coatings offered by the contractors. While I had seen Direct Colors concrete stain pictures during my research, I knew it would be more work on my part, and I was hoping for something easy. This once-in-a-lifetime project had to be done right the first time, as there was not going to be a second. I bit the bullet (mentally) and decided to do the concrete stain so I would like the outcome.
The floor had not been damaged but there are two small settling cracks. I chose to not patch repair the cracks as they were tight and after reading that different mortars can have different colors, I preferred having the sight of a tight crack than color changes due to mortar. I’m glad I did; I like the look and it is hardly noticeable.
When I built the house 20 years ago, I used this basement area to stain my woodwork. In the process I spilled wood stain many places on the concrete. Therefore, I knew I would have to sand the concrete to get past the existing wood stain. I was unsure if I would do it as a wet-sand job, or a dry sanding, so I prepped the area by putting plastic up around the perimeter. I rented a floor sander with the concrete sanding disc at the local big-box hardware store and started sanding. At first I tried an area using water, knowing this would keep the dust down. But with the water I could not see the condition of the sanded area due to the slurry, then I tried sanding an area dry. I was much more comfortable seeing the floor when dry sanding. I had the basement window open with a fan in it pulling the air out of the house, a full face respirator, and I had a vacuum connected to the sander. About half-way through the sanding I noticed it was taking a lot of work to make any progress. I deduced the sanding disc was worn out and I removed it and returned to the hardware store for an exchange. As I only rented the machine for one day, I was worried about losing time to make the one-hour round trip for the new disc. After returning with the new disc and using it I was glad to have it! The sanding went so much better with the new disc and did a great job. At the completion of sanding, I swept and vacuumed the entire area, including the walls. This included removing the perimeter plastic (put up for wet sanding), as it had collected a lot of dust. I had the doorway from the basement to the upstairs plastic and taped off, but after going upstairs, I found that the plastic/tape job was not adequate, as the concrete dust managed to work its way upstairs into the living areas. So I went into action cleaning that up before it got ground-in.
With the floor swept and vacuumed (several times), I prepped the area for staining. This included new perimeter plastic. I chose three different color stains, Malayan Buff, Avocado, and Seagrass. I used three spray bottles, so I could work my way across the floor using all three, applying colors per my design. Again, with a fan in the window and a respirator, and now spiked sandals, I put the stain down. Having previously purchased the stain sample kit, I knew I wanted to wait the full time for as much color to burn into the concrete. The following day I rinsed and scrubbed the concrete and wet-dry vacuumed it up. I had a garden hose into the area to make it convenient, this worked well. While the floor was still wet I decided I wanted more color. After the floor dried, I went back and applied more stain in certain areas. And the next day rinsed and scrubbed the floor, then gave the floor a full day to dry. I checked for any residue and noticed the floor still had a significant amount of residue, so I rinsed and scrubbed again. After the third rinse and scrub the residue was no longer noticeable.
The following day I swept and vacuumed, then applied the first coat of sealant using a hardware store damp-type mop. As recommended, I applied the sealant in a north-south direction initially. Then on the second day I applied east-west. I had a considerable amount of sealant remaining, although I had purchased the recommended amount for my square footage. I believe I was just applying coats lighter than expected. After the second coat dried, I applied another north-south coat.
Two coats of wax on top of it finished it, and it is so much better than I could have dreamed. I am very glad I chose to do the concrete stain, and not paint or epoxy. The job did take some work on my part, but it was entirely worth it.
Personal Tips:
More/bigger fans when dry sanding.
Don’t sand unless you have to.
Drywall mud must be removed down to bare concrete.
Rinse and scrub the acid residue until the floor passes the white-glove test.
I was able to do a few hours a day or every other day. There was no rush to “get it done”.
The quantities recommended are fairly accurate.
Have a spare acid sprayer available. You don’t want to be in the middle of spraying and have an issue. Cheap insurance.

Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
3 x 1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
2 x 1 Gal. Avocado EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Seagrass DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

Matte-Finished Basement Upgrade with Avocado and Desert Amber EverStain™ Acid Stains

This basement project features a unique blend of Avocado and Desert Amber EverStain™ Acid Stains, all topped with a matte Penetrating Concrete Sealer. The resulting floor showcases an earthy aesthetic that adds depth and warmth to the space.

Products Used

Multicolor Stencil Magic: Transforming a Screened Porch Floor

This project demonstrates the artistic transformation of a 10×12 ft screened porch addition with a unique blend of Azure Blue, Avocado, English Red, and Desert Amber EverStain™ Acid Stains. Using a Modello stencil, the creator skillfully applied a design to the concrete floor. Lessons from this project include the importance of layout planning, using a sponge for color application on the stencil, and awaiting the sealer’s effect before judging the final outcome. The project culminates in a visually appealing space, which the creator found enjoyable to work on and would replicate in future projects.

Modello stencil neatly laid out on the porch floor — The Modello stencil perfectly positioned for the project

Stenciled area covered while applying Amber and Malayan Buff acid stain around it — Carefully applying Amber and Malayan Buff acid stain around the covered stencil

Stencil still on the floor with different colored acid stains applied over it — The stencil remains in place, with a spectrum of acid stains applied over it, crafting a colorful design

Revealed stencil with acid stains applied over it, showing a pattern

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 120 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Had an addition to the house and included a covered screen in porch of 10×12 ft. Decided to stain the concrete and add a stencil. Used a Modello stencil on the project and multiple color stains for the overall look.
Personal Tips:
For some reason only the English red had issues with bleeding through the stencil. We also left the inside of the stencil without stain as the contrast was nicer than trying to add another color. I taking the time to lay the stencil out is key. I used a sponge to apply the colors to the stencil and a sprayer to stain the border. Also, do not judge your work until after the sealer is applied as it really helps the colors show. Overall, it was a fun project. I would do it again.
Direct Colors Products Used:
I used 4Oz of Azure Blue Everstain, Avocado Everstain, English Red Everstain, and Desert Amber Everstain and Satin Water based sealer kit.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Qt. Malayan Buff EverStain™
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™
4 Oz. Azure Blue EverStain™
4 Oz. Avocado EverStain™
4 Oz. English Red EverStain™
Other Products Used:
Modello Stencil- Bradbury CC101 Custom Carpet & Ceiling Stencil 6x6ft.

Products Used

Alocasia Leaf Birdbath: A Creative Blend of Desert Amber and Avocado EverStain™ Acid Stains

This project displays a homemade birdbath created using a live-casted Alocasia leaf and beautifully stained with a mix of Desert Amber and Avocado EverStain™ Acid Stains. The novice user recommends quick and smooth application to avoid heavy lines and blotting any runs immediately for a natural, seamless appearance.

Concrete Birdbath Stained with Avocado and Desert Amber EverStain Acid Stains

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 14 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1.70 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I made a birdbath using a live casted Alocasia leaf for the inner dish you inlay.
Personal Tips:
This was my first time using this product, I blended two colors of EverStain “I was attempting to get a somewhat natural look” If I was going to suggest anything it would be to avoid any patterns or heavy lines while spraying, and to make each pump/shot swiftly and in motion. Since the surface was uneven and had many crevices and divet‘s I found having a sponge brush on standby or even in hand while spraying was very useful. When the product runs it can almost immediately become noticeable, so blotting any areas (right away) where a run occurred helped to avoid any unsightly or unwanted markings.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™
1 Gal. Avocado EverStain™

Products Used

Fired Up in Avocado: DIY Elegance!

Ignite your creative spirit with our DIY Acid Stained Concrete Fire Table! Drenched in the lush hues of Avocado, this piece is a testament to at-home artistry. Eager to craft your own? Dive into the details at our blog: “DIY Acid Stained Concrete Fire Table.” 🔥🥑

Stained Concrete Fire Table Coffee Brown and Avocado Acid Stains

Acid Stained Concrete Table — Stained Concrete Fire Table Coffee Brown and Avocado Acid Stains. Sealed with High Gloss Water-Based Acrylic Sealer and Countertop Wax

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Stunning Black Stained Concrete Transformations: DIY Customer Projects & Tips

Learn from real DIY customers who have successfully used our black concrete stains to craft stylish surfaces in their indoor and outdoor spaces. Get inspired by their tips and tricks to enhance your own space with our outstanding black concrete stain solutions.

By Justin Richardson

From Blank to Black: A DIY Dream Floor!

Stripping off old sealant from newly-poured concrete wasn’t an easy feat, but this DIY duo conquered it in 1.5 weeks! A swift application of Aquatint in black followed by a satin ProWax polish, and voilà – a stunning floor transformation they absolutely adore!

Three playful children having fun on an untreated concrete floor, showing its raw state prior to staining. — Before the makeover: The kids making the most of the raw concrete floor. Time for a transformation!

Sleek and polished living area floor, beautifully stained with AcquaTint™ Black and finished with ProWax Polish™, reflecting the ambient lighting. — After the AcquaTint™ magic: From a play space to a stylish living area, showcasing the elegance of Black AcquaTint™ and satin ProWax Polish™ finish.

Overhead view from a staircase showcasing a gleaming finished floor stained in rich black AcquaTint — An overhead glimpse of the transformed floor, shimmering in deep black AquaTint™ and satin ProWax Polish™

AcquaTint™ Tinted Concrete Sealer Tutorial

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
This is one of the many diy projects we did on our new build. The hardest part of the floors for us was removing the old sealant that was put down on our new concrete at the time of pouring. That took us about 1.5 weeks to remove before applying this stain and wax. Applying it was quick and easy. We used the aquatint in black and satin prowax polish. We love the way they turned out! Definitely recommend!
Personal Tips:
Don’t get sealant on existing concrete at the time of pouring if you plan to do any staining. The staining was an after thought for us so we had to remove what was already placed.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 x 5 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™ & ProWax Polish™ Satin Kit
3 x 1 Gal. Black AcquaTint™

Products Used

Black AcquaTint Swatch — AcquaTint™ Black

Basement Redo

A second attempt at staining a concrete basement floor, this time with proper prep, AcquaTint™, and a durable, marble-like finish that passed rigorous durability tests.

A clean, prepared concrete floor in a room with light-colored walls and ceiling, ready for stain application. A container and some tools are visible on the floor. — The concrete floor has been cleaned and prepped, ready for the application of stain after thorough surface preparation.

A basement hallway with a faux polished concrete floor, featuring smooth, reflective surfaces and light-colored walls. — Completed "Basement Redo" project, highlighting the faux polished concrete floor with a sleek, durable AcquaTint finish.

The Process

A concrete floor with patches where stain and wax have flaked off, exposing bare concrete. The surface is smooth and reflective, showing poor stain adhesion. — A concrete floor showing poor stain adhesion due to inadequate surface preparation, resulting in flaking and exposed bare concrete.

A room with plastic sheeting covering the walls, showing a concrete floor being ground down with a floor grinder, with debris scattered around. — For the project redo, a concrete floor grinder was used to remove the old stain and properly open up the concrete for better absorption.

A basement with protective coverings on the lower walls and bar, showing the floor after the application of the first coat of AcquaTint stain. — The basement floor after the application of the first coat of AcquaTint Black and Gray stains

A basement floor with a smooth, polished appearance after the application of the second coat of AcquaTint stain — The basement floor after the second coat of AcquaTint Black and Gray stains, showing a smooth, polished finish as the project progresses.

A concrete floor with a large, stylized letter "H" stenciled onto the surface, set against a faux polished finish with subtle color variations. — The finished basement floor featuring a personalized touch with a stylized "H" stenciled onto the faux polished concrete surface.

A modern basement bar area with a polished concrete floor, sleek bar stools, and ambient lighting, showcasing a smooth, reflective finish. — The finished "Basement Redo" project, showcasing a polished concrete floor with a durable, marble-like finish, achieved through careful preparation and staining.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 10 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I call this project “basement redo”. I call it this because this is my second attempt staining my concrete basement floor, each time using your products. Epic failure first attempt. I failed to properly prep the concrete floor for stain on my first attempt. I was prepping fairly new concrete that was very smooth and non-porous. I felt like the etching material I used to prep the concrete performed well so that the concrete would absorbed the ColorWave stain, I was wrong. The finished product looked good but was not durable at all. It would flake and pull up very easily. Things such as painters or scotch tape would remove the wax and stain very earlier, leaving bare concrete. I took a much different approach for project redo. I rented a concrete floor grinder to remove the old stain and to open up the concrete so that this time it would absorb. This time I used AcquaTint, I liked the idea of sealing the concrete and giving it color at the same time. I used EasyTint on my outside patio and really like the finished product. As you can imagine this project was extremely messy and time consuming but well worth the redo. I also had no help during any step of the project. I had almost 24 hours just in floor grinding, hand grinding and phase one cleaning. An additional 8-10 hours on phase two cleaning. After cleaning the basement was waterlogged so I had two days of running fans to dry it out. I tried different application methods used by other customers, pump spray method is what I chose. I wanted to archive some color contrast/marbleish look so I did a bit of experimenting on areas where I knew you would not see (under area rug and couch). The base color I used was gray and I also purchase black. I found that the black was to much of a contrast so I mixed black with gray, initially at a 1:1 ration but ended up using a 3:1 ration gray to black. Finished it off with ProWax satin. I applied 5 coats because I planned on using a floor polisher to buff it out but ultimately didn’t like the polished look so I stopped after testing it in a small area. I have since tested the floor in several area for durability and it has passed the test so far. Had 10 kids over for NYD and unknowingly found them using hockey sticks on the floor, durability test two…PASS, haha. I am significantly more pleased with project redo both in looks and durability. Thanks for the great products!!
Personal Tips:
Suggest having multiple pump sprayers available, mine seemed to gum up easily resulting in sputtering of the sprayed material. This way you can transfer the material to a new pump and continue, clean the other when you are done.I found it difficult to walk in the spikes shoes, also time consuming putting them on and taking them off. To solve this I used an old pair of rubber crocs and attached the spikes to them so that I could easily slip on and slip off.Highly recommend testing the color on an area you may not see and get sample colors. My first attempt I was not crazy about the color, liked great in photos but turned out a lot different on my application. Also try an area not going to be seen (mine was under a large area rug I knew would be there) when trying to achieve a particular look, color, or accent design.Can’t stress enough about proper prepping for concrete dye/stain. If any doubt use a grinder to make your concrete more likely to absorb the stain. I would say just do it, grind it, if you have hard troweled concrete.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. Black AcquaTint™ & ProWax Polish™ Satin Kit
2 Gal. Gray AcquaTint™

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For more details on how to use our all-in-one stain and sealer, explore the AcquaTint™ Gallery: Seamless Stain & Sealer Projects for Concrete

Before & After: Living Area Improvement

Check out these before and after photos of our customer’s living area improvement. They had adhesive marks, but our ColorWave® stain made a difference, improving the look of the space.

Improved living area after staining — The transformed living area after using Colorwave stain to conceal adhesive marks, resulting in a cleaner look

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We had a living area that was covered in black mastic. Several years ago we used a sander to remove most of the mastic and laid carpet. When the carpet was pulled up, there was several adhesive marks that would not fade. The Colorwave stained was able to cover the marks and help blend them in with the rest of the stain.
Personal Tips:
Make sure you spend the extra time with cleaning prep
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Black DIY ColorWave® & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Steel ColorWave® Stain
1 Gal. Molasses ColorWave® Stain
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

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ColorWave® Steel Gray — ColorWave® Steel

Concrete Floor Makeover: Blending Stain Colors

This resourceful homeowner transformed 500 sq ft of stained carpet in their new third-floor condominium into a chic plaster and concrete floor.

Concrete floor with repaired cracks using CementAll

Black stained concrete floor beautifully transformed with black, stone gray, and iron gray ColorWave water-based concrete stains, showcasing a stunning and unique color blend. — Concrete floor beautifully transformed with black, stone gray, and iron gray ColorWave water-based concrete stains, showcasing a stunning and unique color blend.

Details & Tips

I recently bought a new home (condominium on the third floor) that had some nice but stained carpet in the bedrooms. I wanted to remove the carpet and stain the plaster floor/concrete floor underneath. I was unsure what the materials were other than it was porous so I decided to go with the ColorWave Stain to be safe. I was also on a time limit so I had to have the product ready to go the day I closed, which is the day I began working. It took a total of 12 Days with cure time. The Project size was 500sq feet.

The floors were a combination of plaster and concrete. I had to utilize patching from your website and from Home Depot (rock free quickset concrete all purpose) to fill in broken plaster parts. I removed the small pieces first. I then sanded down glue particles and stains along with the setting concrete. I applied three different colors of stain putting my most favored color first, then a layer of my next color in various spots and then the third in the same way. I topped off with a final coat of my original color and cured this. I repeated the process after the cure.

Some external products were a 12 blade diamond cut 7 inch sander pad and blade (for concrete), Goo Be Gone, and the quick set all purpose concrete (blue label). It is very important to get concrete patch that dries quick and does NOT have little rocks.

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For more details on how to use our versatile water-based stain, explore ColorWave® Stain: Stunning DIY Concrete Transformations

Monochrome Modernity: A Garage Floor Revamp

Breathing life into a standard garage floor, Antiquing™ Black Stain was employed to deliver a nuanced, mottled appearance, offering both style and simplicity to this modernized space.

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Black Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Black

How to Apply Antiquing™ Stain

Interested in projects specifically using acid stain? Explore our dedicated Black EverStain™ Acid Stain Project Gallery for inspiration

The renovated mechanical room with a black acid-stained floor exhibiting brown hues, sealed with a satin finish AcquaSeal — A renovated mechanical room with a black acid-stained floor exhibiting brown hues, sealed with a satin finish AcquaSeal

Marbled Elegance: Mottled Black Stained Concrete Garage Floor with Concrete Dye

Explore this sophisticated garage floor transformation, where the homeowner used concrete dye to create a stunning mottled black stained concrete finish, resembling a marbled black and white polished surface. With careful application and attention to detail, they turned an ordinary garage floor into a captivating, elegant space.

Garage space with a faux polished concrete floor using Black, Stormy Gray, and White Vibrance Dye — Bringing a sleek and modern look to a garage space with a faux polished concrete floor using Black, Stormy Gray, and White Vibrance Dye

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Jet Black Vibrance Dye Swatch — Vibrance™ Black

Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye Color Swatch — Vibrance™ Stormy Gray

White Vibrance Dye Color Swatch — Vibrance™ Dye White

Black Stained Concrete Floor with Hand Troweled Smooth Gray Overlay and Variegated Tinted Sealer Finish

William B. Carlisle skillfully combined a hand-troweled smooth gray overlay using a skip trowel/knock down method with an expertly applied black AcquaTint™ to create a visually stunning finish.

Pre-cast Concrete Table — Photo Provided by William B From Carlisle Design, OK

Coffee N' Crafts Shop — Coffee N' Crafts Concrete stained and sealed floor with AcquaTint black tinted concrete sealer

Coffee N' Crafts Concrete Stained tables

Coffee N' Crafts Concrete stained and sealed floor with tinted concrete sealer — AcquaTint black tinted concrete sealer on commercial Floor

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Gray Concrete Overlay — Resurface-It™ Concrete Overlay

Sunroom Splendor: Marbled Black and White Mottled Stained Concrete Floor with Concrete Dye

killfully used concrete dye to achieve a marbled black and white mottled stained concrete finish. The polished and refined appearance brings a touch of elegance to this bright and inviting space. Discover the techniques and steps used to recreate this stunning marbled effect and elevate your own sunroom with a similarly impressive floor makeover.

Sunroom floor stained with black and white Vibrance Dye in mottled technique — This sunroom floor was given a unique and eye-catching makeover with a black and white Vibrance dye in a mottled technique

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Patio Perfection: Mottled Black Stained Concrete Tiles Created with Scored and Taped Technique

Step outside and admire this stunning covered patio transformation, where a clever homeowner used a scored and taped technique to create the appearance of large concrete tiles stained with a mottled black concrete finish. The result is an eye-catching and inviting outdoor space with a unique, sophisticated touch.

Black Antiquing stained scored concrete patio

Products Used

For more DIY inspiration and ideas, check out our “Gallery Of Black Concrete Stain Projects: DIY Inspiration For Your Outdoor Space.“

Mottled Color Effect with Puddling Method

This creative homeowner skillfully achieved a mottled color effect using ColorWave® Black, Stone Gray, and Iron Gray stains. By employing the “puddling method”.

Prepped and Clean Concrete Floor Ready for Staining

ColorWave Stains in Black, Stone Gray, and Iron Gray Applied Using Puddling Method on Concrete Floor

Dry ColorWave Stains in Black, Stone Gray, and Iron Gray on Concrete Floor

Sealed and polished Stone Gray, Iron Gray and Black stained concrete floor — Exceptional craftsmanship: polished basement floor reveals a striking stone-like finish with a vibrant blend of three colors

Details & Tips

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 430 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We used Colorwave Black, Stone Gray and Iron gray, used the “puddling method” and finished it off with an AcquaSeal gloss sealer. We also put 2 coats of wax afterwards.
Personal Tips:
Make sure you spend the extra time with cleaning prep.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Black DIY ColorWave® & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Stone ColorWave® Stain
1 Gal. Iron ColorWave® Stain
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

Monochrome Floor Makeover: A Play of Black and Steel Grey

Transforming a basic floor into a monochrome masterpiece, this project employed a blend of black and steel grey ColorWave® stains. With a focus on preparation, overlapping patterns, and finishing with a high gloss, the outcome showcased the power of attention to detail.

Unfinished floor with visible imperfections and paint spots prior to staining

Monochrome floor showcasing a fusion of black and steel grey stains

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 550 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I started with cleaning the floor. I used the ProClean degreaser from a pump sprayer. I soaked the entire floor, then sprayed down a little water. I rented a 17” floor sander and bought a 800 grit diamond impregnated disk for it. I would wet about a 3 by 3 foot section at a time and run the machine through it then I would push the dirty water with a squeegee and vacuum the water up. This was the most tiring part for me. After that I hung my plastic around the parameter of where I would be coloring and ended up mopping again twice with the degreaser again just for good measure. I let the floor dry 24 hours before spraying. Next I filled up two pump sprayers for my first coat. I used black and steel grey colorwave stain. I sprayed a circle pattern over lapping slightly with the two colors and did that through the whole space. 24 hours later a repeated for second coat and waited 48 hours before sealing. I ended up using 2 gallons of black and 2 1/2 gallons of the steel grey. I used the pump sprayer method also for the aqua seal gloss. I did two coats misting it on in circular motions. Using almost four gallons and waiting 24 hours before coats. After another 24 hours I mopped on the pro wax polish height gloss. For this I just used a microfiber mop and just coated it like I was mopping normally. I did two coats waiting 12 hours apart. Used 1 gallon.
Personal Tips:If I did it over I would have peeped the floor a little better. I had some paint spots that I left and didn’t use the stripper on them. Also I would probably do three coats of color next time. One more thing I will do next time is buy decent pump sprayers instead of the cheapest ones at Lowe’s as they gave me some issues with consistency.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Qt. ProClean Degreaser™
3 x 1 Gal. Iron ColorWave® Stain AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Black ColorWave® Stain AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Black ColorWave® Stain
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss

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If you’re inspired by these projects and interested in exploring more industrial and mottled-looking floor finishes, don’t miss our blog post: ‘Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye: Your Ticket To DIY Magic!‘ Dive into the world of DIY magic with our Vibrance Dye.

Sponge Swirls: Unexpectedly Perfect Shop Floors!

When traditional methods threw a curveball, the shop owners went with a sponge for their floor staining. Maybe it was the super smooth concrete? Regardless, the result was a unique swirl finish that was unplanned yet utterly captivating. Sometimes, happy accidents make the best designs!

Shop floor in its basic state, waiting for a touch of color and design. — Before: Our shop's blank canvas. Ready for some creativity!

Handmade, uneven swirl patterns across the shop floor, resulting from the sponge staining technique, showcasing its distinct charm.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Staining the inside part of our shop floors.
Personal Tips:
We used a sponge since rolling it on or spraying just did not want to work with us. Maybe the concrete was to smooth?

Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™
5 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™

Products Used

Charcoal AcquaTint Swatch — AcquaTint™ Charcoal

Image showcasing the finished concrete floor in the newly opened barbershop, featuring modern, industrial aesthetics with varying tones of gray and black, exuding a masculine ambiance.

Stunning Gray Concrete Stain: A Gallery of DIY Projects

Gray colors have a reputation for bringing balance to any room since they’re so neutral. Feel free to scroll through some of these gray DIY projects – maybe you can see yourself replicating one of these looks!

By Justin Richardon

Isaiah’s Barbershop Makeover: From Carpet to Chic Industrial Concrete

Image of the original interior space, covered in adhesive carpet tiles prior to renovation — Original interior space, covered in adhesive carpet tiles prior to renovation

Follow first-time floor DIYer Isaiah Medina’s fun-filled adventure, as he and his wife turn a carpeted space into their dream barbershop @BeyondthecutSa.Tx with sleek, industrial-style concrete floors. From the initial paint-spattered chaos of ceiling and wall painting, to the rewarding grind and clean-up, and finally, the careful application of Acquatint – it’s a rollercoaster of a project with a stylish and durable result. With no prior floor-doing experience but tons of passion, Isaiah shows us that with a bit of grit and patience, anyone can achieve their DIY dreams.

Image showing the floor covered in mastic after removing carpet tiles, along with paint splatters from the freshly painted black ceiling and white walls — A work-in-progress snapshot: The floor, fresh from carpet tile removal and covered in mastic, takes on a new character with paint splatters from our freshly painted black ceiling and white walls

Image showing the dual disk grinder in action, methodically grinding down and cleaning the entire floor area — The transformation begins: Our rented dual disk grinder hard at work, grinding down and thoroughly cleaning the entire floor area.

Image showing the thoroughly cleaned and fully dried concrete floor, prepped and ready for the application of Acquatint — A clean slate: Our concrete floor, thoroughly cleaned and dried, awaits its transformation with the application of Acquatint

Image showing the floor after the application of the second coat of Charcoal Acquatint, as it awaits curing before the application of ProWax Polish — Patience is a virtue: Our floor glistens with the second coat of Charcoal Acquatint, as we eagerly await the curing process before adding the final touch with ProWax Polish

Image showcasing the modern, industrial-styled entrance of Beyond the Cut Barbershop, a testament to the diligent DIY efforts of the owner — Step into style at Beyond the Cut Barbershop! This inviting entrance is the fruit of a DIY labor of love by our dedicated customer and first-time floor remodeler, Isaiah Medina. Follow his journey @BeyondtheCutSA.Tx and get inspired!

Finished, modern industrial-style barbershop

AcquaTint™ Tinted Sealer Tutorial

Personal Tips Reimagined:

Dig deep into your pockets for that extra cash – it’s worth it to grind down your floors when battling stubborn adhesive. It’s a game-changer for stain and sealer penetration, ensuring a resilient bond.
Be prepared for a dust storm! Grinding can get messy, so use water for wet grinding to keep the dust at bay.
Slow and steady wins the race. Don’t rush the process. Instead, take your time to ensure clean floors for the best results.
And last but not least, remember to have fun! After all, it’s not every day you get to transform your space into something truly special.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 2500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My name is Isaiah Medina I’ve never done floors in my life. I recently started to open a barbershop with my wife. We have always been in love with concrete industrial looking floors. When we first purchase the space, it was covered in adhesive carpet tiles. So after removing them, it was covered in mastic. We figured we would work top down so we painted the ceiling’s first. Of course, all of that paint fell to the floor then we painted the walls white and of course we dropped some.
Then it was time to start the floors finally.
We rented a duel disk grinder, ground down the whole area, cleaned it really well, and then we applied the acquatint.
Two coats 15-20 hours apart. They’re very durable and easy to clean.
Personal Tips:
Spend the extra money and grind down your floors if you’re getting rid of a lot of adhesive.
It ensures that the stain or sealer gets really deep and provides a strong bond.
It creates a lot of dust, so make sure you use water to wet grind it to minimize that.
And don’t rush take your time make sure the floors are clean and have fun.
Direct Colors Products Used:
3 x 5 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™
3x 1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin
Other Products Used:
Edco dual grinder
Harbor freight attachment & shroud to grind the edges
Harbor freight paper and tape to cover the edges.
Harbor freight 2 gallon pump to spray the sealer.

Products Used

Floor Marvel: From Dust to Dazzle with Charcoal AcquaTint™

This family took their move as an opportunity to transform their home with our Charcoal AcquaTint™. They loved the natural swirls and marble effect on their floors, so they wanted a transparent but tough stain to enhance them. After lots of testing (and cleaning!) they found that using an 18″ floor squeegee gave them the look they wanted. They finished with a satin wax which makes the floor seem to change color with the light. It wasn’t easy, but they say it was worth it and they’re glad they did it themselves. Just goes to show what a good clean, some elbow grease, and a bit of AcquaTint can do!

Home interior before renovation with plain concrete floor — The 'before': a simple concrete floor, ready for transformation

using a shop vac to clean the concrete floors before staining — Prepping for success: thorough cleaning of the concrete floor

Homeowner applying Charcoal AcquaTint™ using an 18" squeegee for a swirl finish — Making it happen: Applying AcquaTint with an 18" squeegee for a swirled, transparent look

Close-up of the finished floor with a relaxed cat enjoying its new spot. — Even the cat approves: Close-up of the finished floor, complete with a comfy feline

Finished and polished concrete floor with a transparent Charcoal AcquaTint™ finish — Mission accomplished: A sleek, polished floor brought to life with Charcoal AcquaTint™

Close-up view showcasing the swirls and marbled effect on the finished floor — It's all in the details: A closer look at the floor's beautiful swirls and marbled effect

Details & Tips

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We are finally all moved in and getting around to showing you all our results! We knew we loved and wanted to accentuate the power trial swirls and marbling effect. We spent hours and many test products under where our cabinets would be, but look no further direct colors has the perfect product. We ended up choosing the tinted sealer. We knew we wanted a very transparent but durable stain.
Essentially all we did was thoroughly clean the dust and construction grime off the floors with degreasing soap and let that dry a few hours. We then came back and cleaned our floors THREE more times with the direct colors degreaser, two of which were rinses. This alone took a full day for 1500sqft. Once this dried we were ready to stain. We tried many methods (sprayers, sponges, rags) and the best we came across for a super transparent look was a 18” floor squeegee! It worked awesome. Like any paint project it is all in the prep work and the actual staining process was over before we knew it, maybe 1.5hrs. After this we let it dry for a day and covered in plastic to finish construction. Once we were ready to move in we washed it again, then immediately waxed the entire floor(last picture) as you can see the floor is almost a living feature of the house as it changes color and hue based on lighting effects. Overall this was a rewarding project that we are happy to have done ourselves! Have fun!
Personal Tips:
Clean clean clean, have all supplies organized and clean up (acetone, in our case) ready. Have an extra applicator (spray gun squeegee etc.) on hand in case yours fails/breaks
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Qt. ProClean Degreaser™ Concentrate
1 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™
1 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Satin Concrete Sealer
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

Sleek Barndominium Makeover with AcquaTint™

This brand-new barndominium got a chic, modern upgrade with the help of our Charcoal AcquaTint™. Opting for a sleek finish, the owner used a combination of spray and roller application techniques, yielding excellent results. The fresh concrete surface was prepped with etching before the application of AcquaTint™ and finished off with our ProWax Polish™ Satin for that ultra-modern look. It’s proof that with the right tools, your vision can become reality!

DIYer in action, rolling Charcoal AcquaTint™ onto the new concrete floor after spraying — Behind the scenes: Rolling AcquaTint™ post-spraying for a seamless finish on the new concrete floor

Finished modern and sleek barndominium floor showcasing the glossy effect of Charcoal AcquaTint™ with satin ProWax Polish — The final result: A sleek, modern barndominium floor, achieved with Charcoal AcquaTint™ and our satin ProWax Polish™

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Interesting
Personal Tips:
Spraying along w roller application worked great for me
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. Light Charcoal AcquaTint™ & ProWax Polish™ Satin Kit
2 x 1 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™

Products Used

Basement Transformation: Step-by-Step with AcquaTint™ and ProWax Polish™

This project took a 600 sq ft basement from drab to fab in just five days. It was a lot of hard work, with the bulk of the time spent on prepping the floor for AcquaTint™. They treated, cleaned, sanded, and then rolled on two coats of our Charcoal AcquaTint™. They finished with two coats of ProWax Polish™ for a sleek satin finish. Yes, it was a big job, but they shared lots of great tips to help other DIYers. Take a look at their day-to-day journey to a fantastic basement floor.

Basement floor after the etching process in preparation for the application of Charcoal AcquaTint — Step 1: Etching - Prepping the floor to ensure our AcquaTint sticks and looks great

Fully transformed basement floor featuring the Charcoal AcquaTint™ sealer — After: The result of patience and effort – a beautifully sealed basement floor

Renovated basement room with a TV, showcasing the gleaming floor finish — Kick back and enjoy: A view of the revamped room, TV-ready with a shiny new floor

Unfinished bathroom area with bare concrete floor — Before: a bathroom in need of a little TLC

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 600 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Finishing approx. 600sq ft basement area with AcquaTint water based colored sealer and satin ProWax Polish
Personal Tips:
Entire floor job was about 26 hours of labor, most on floor prep (cleaning and hard troweled floor pre-treatment).
Day 1: It took 2 people 8 hours each to clean and apply hard troweled pre-treatment and rinse off using a wet vac.Rinsed floor twice after hard troweled pre-treatment to make sure no residue left behind. Let the floor dry overnight with heat on in the basement before proceeding.Day 2: Prior to applying AcquaTint, went back over the floor lightly sanding a handful of areas where sneaker prints from the hard troweled pre-treatment showed up.Tip – Don’t step in the area where hard troweled pre-treatment has sat for 20 min (which is pretty dry in most areas at that point) prior to rinsing or your sneaker prints will lightly etch themselves into the floor while rinsing. These areas will require sanding and we had a few. An hour (x 2 people) was spent lightly sanding a handful of sneaker prints and vacuuming up all the dust.The two coats of AcquaTint (one Day 2 and one Day 3) were applied with a 9″ roller letting the weight of the roller apply material.Tip – only put a small amount into your tray and always wet the roller by rolling it in the bottom of the tray to continue to mix what is in the tray. The pigment settles out pretty quick but is manageable. Apply some pressure to the roller before moving the roller from the tray to the floor so you are not dripping material from the roller. Always stir before adding more sealer to the tray. I would suggest pouring your entire amount of sealer into a pail before you start because it is easy to stir the contents in the pail. Use a coffee can or smaller container to transfer well mixed colored sealer into your tray.Work in small sections at a time (6′ x 4′). Move quickly but don’t freak out over lap marks. You will get them but rolling over them a second or third time as you work the small section helps and then the next coat rolls the opposite direction which further helps them blend in.Back roll the final roll before you move on to the next section. It took about 3 hours of labor (2 people 1 1/2 hours each) to apply each coat of sealer.Giving the floor two days to dry after the second coat of sealer brings us to Day 5 where wax was applied in the morning and again late afternoon.It only takes about 1 hour to apply a coat of wax over 600 sq ft. Only one person needed for wax.

Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™ & ProWax Polish™ Satin Kit
1 Qt. ProClean Degreaser™ Concentrate<
9″ Rollers, 4″ Roller kit, Medium Texture Scrub Brush
Other Products Used:
Goof Off where there was any paint or paint over spray on the floor

Products Used

Transformed Basement: From Gloomy to Family-friendly Hangout

In this project, a previously dull and uninviting basement is rejuvenated into an appealing family hangout spot. The concrete floor was meticulously cleaned and refreshed with three thin coats of Charcoal AcquaTint™. The final result is a warmly tinted basement floor that drastically enhances the overall aesthetics.

Unfinished, unpolished basement floor — Before: A typical, unadorned basement floor waiting for a transformation

Basement floor after AcquaTint application showing improved appearance and color — After: AcquaTint breathes new life into the once dull basement floor

Newly revamped basement featuring a dart board and various fun posters on the walls — Adding personal touches: Fun posters and a dart board turn the basement into a lively game night hub

Cozy basement living space with two chairs, artfully decorated with paintings on the walls — Final result: The warm hue of the stained concrete floor complements the art and furnishings, creating a cozy family-friendly space

Products Used

Chic Salon Makeover with Natural Concrete Floors

This salon project embraced the raw beauty of unfinished concrete floors. By preserving the natural blemishes and adding strategic detailing, the space was transformed into a chic, modern salon (NoirLuxco Nail Studio and Spa, Katy, TX). The use of AcquaTint™ in Charcoal and Silver Gray, combined with ProWax Polish™, ensured a non-porous, durable finish. For a touch of sparkle, Mica Powder was incorporated. The result is a distinctive salon floor that is not only functional, but also visually engaging.

Unfinished concrete floor in a salon waiting for transformation. — Transforming a bare concrete canvas into an artistic salon floor

Progression of the floor detailing with continued application of Charcoal AcquaTint and Mica — The first stage of transformation - Applying swirls of Charcoal AcquaTint and Mica for a unique touch

Artistically applied swirls of Charcoal AcquaTint and Mica highlights on the concrete salon floor. — Continuing the journey, enhancing the unique character of the salon floor.

The finished product - a chic salon floor showcasing the synergy of Charcoal, Silver Gray and sparkling Mica highlights.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1720 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Salon had unfinished concrete floors I loved the natural state and all the blemishes so i opted to let those shine but add some details and bc the floors cant be porous I needed to seal them so I did just that and love my floors!
Personal Tips:
Fill gaps, holes and cracks.
Use the darker color first then lighter colors to diffuse it per se.
Direct Colors Products Used:
2 x 1 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™
5 Gal. Silver Gray AcquaTint™ & ProWax Polish™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin
Other Products Used: Mica Powder

Products Used

Silver Gray AcquaTint Swatch — AcquaTint™ Silver Gray

Graffiti-Inspired Basement Transformation

This project takes an artistic spin on an 1800sq ft basement floor. After a deep clean, a professional artist splashed Charcoal AcquaTint™, followed by a lighter gray layer. Despite the challenge, the mottled effect created was a sight to behold. Three coats of wax later, the result was a unique, vibrant floor. Note: stir AcquaTint™ often and ensure good lighting when applying!

Tinted Sealer Design on Concrete Basement — Charcoal and Gray AcquaTint™ with 3 coats of high gloss ProWax Polish™

AcquaTint - Basement Floor - Charcoal Application — Charcoal AcquaTint™ applied in random graffiti-like splashes

Used a roller to apply a lighter gray color over the splashed charcoal, creating a mottled, random look

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 6 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1800 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I have an unfinished 1800sf basement. I wanted to keep the integrity and durability of the concrete floors.
The floors had been grinded before any work had started.
First was cleaning up drywall dust, mud and paint off floors. Some was scraped off and then washed with diluted pine sol and water and finally just with plain water. This took about 6 hours everytime, constantly dumping the dirtied water.
I am a professional artist but this was my first time with concrete stain and such a huge scale.
The sprayer I used spit and dripped out the paint so I had to change my original plan to random graffiti-like splashes of the charcoal color. Spraying the initial design took 4-5 hours and 2/3 of the 5 gal charcoal. I let that dry 24 hours before starting 2nd coat of lighter gray.
I used a 3/8″ 9″ roller to apply lighter gray over splashed charcoal. Because I was creating a mottled, random look, it was impossible to roll on in one direction as is suggested. It created lines I didn’t like. Rather, I went heavy in some areas and left the lightness of one coat in other areas, always careful to cover bare concrete. The lighter gray helped to soften the contrast of the lighter areas and the charcoal. This effect took about 2 of the 5 gal. container. Because of the sheer size of the floor, it took 6-7 hours.
After waiting 24 hours, I began 1st coat of wax with a 9″ Shurcoat paint pad. It was very had to tell where I covered because of the mottled nature of the colors. After 4-5 hrs. I applied a 2nd coat of wax, noticing some areas had a higher sheen to them. I wasn’t sure why this was happening but it helped create depth on the floor.
The next morning, I applied a 3rd coat of wax, a bit heavier to achieve the desired high gloss look. That was left to cure a full 24 hrs. I used 4 of the 5 gals. to do all 3 coats of wax. Each coat took about 4-5 hours to complete.
Personal Tips:
Aquatint settles very quickly and must be constantly stirred.
Enjoy the way the stain works when using more than one color.
Make sure you have very good lighting to apply both stain and wax.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™
5 Gal. Gray AcquaTint™
5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss
Other Products Used:
3/8″- 9″ roller
9″ Shurcoat paint pad -3, one for each coat of wax
2 gal Chapin premier sprayer

Products Used

From Red Rubble to Speakeasy Sublime

In this DIY triumph, a previously neglected basement with garish red floors underwent a massive transformation. After weeks of learning, grinding, staining, and sealing, the homeowners succeeded in reviving their space, using our Charcoal AcquaTint™ to turn it into a stylish basement speakeasy. To achieve a marbled, natural look, they used paint rollers for the base coats and a spray bottle for adding textural nuances. Sealed with ProWax Polish™ Satin, the result is simply remarkable. This journey demonstrates how a bit of grit, creativity, and AcquaTint can change the game.

Bright red, neglected basement floor before refinishing — The starting point: an overwhelming, bright red basement floor

Basement floor after grinding process, preparing for staining — Dust in the air: grinding down the old to make way for the new

Finished basement showcasing the marbled look of Charcoal AcquaTint — Rebirth in Charcoal: the finished floor at one angle, boasting a rich, marbled effect

Alternate angle of the transformed basement floor with the natural, nuanced effect of Charcoal AcquaTint — A second glimpse of the transformation: the nuanced effect of Charcoal AcquaTint™ from a different perspective

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 2000 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We completely refinished our basement over the course of several weeks during our home’s remodel. We started with BRIGHT RED floors, trash left from the previous owner, and zero knowledge of concrete grinders, staining, or sealing. Direct Colors was the perfect finish for our floors and we can’t wait to start setting our our basement speakeasy!
Personal Tips:
When we were staining the floors, we started with paint rollers on long sticks x2 coats, and to add a marbling look plus hide the occasional roller mark, we came back over with a spray bottle and sprayed lines and splotches to give the floor a more natural look.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Products Used

Basement Revival: Out with the Old, In with AcquaTint

Here’s a project that really shows off what Charcoal AcquaTint™ can do. The floor of this 40-year-old basement was a mess with paint drips and stains. But with a bit of patience, etching, neutralizing, and our AcquaTint stain & wax kit, it got a complete makeover. It might have taken time to get the shade just right, but the transformation was worth it.

Poorly maintained basement floor, covered in paint drips and stains

Revamped basement floor after treatment with Charcoal AcquaTint

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Extremely poor paint dripped and stained floor section of basement. House age 40 years.
Personal Tips:
Patience to get desired shade. Product will cover.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™ & ProWax Polish™ Satin Kit

Products Used

Complete Home Refresh with Light Charcoal AcquaTint

Check out how this house got a total facelift using our Light Charcoal AcquaTint™ and a satin ProWax Polish™ finish. The citrus etching didn’t work out, but a buffer machine did the trick. Word to the wise: either clean your sprayer really well after the first day or use a new one, so it doesn’t get clogged. This project is proof that AcquaTint can completely change a place, even when there are a few bumps along the way.

A photo showing the concrete floor where citrus etching was ineffective, and the buffing machine used as an alternative to properly prepare the surface for sealing. — Overcoming challenges - swapping Citrus etching for a buffing machine to achieve a smooth concrete surface

Gleaming concrete floor showcasing the result of two coats of light charcoal Aquatint and two layers of ProWax Polish gloss finish. — Stunning transformation: two coats of Light Charcoal Aquatint and Glossy ProWax Polish finish ceate a gorgeous, gleaming concrete floor

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 6 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 2500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We used Aquatint sealer throughout the house and followed up with a wax coating.
Personal Tips:
The citrus etching did not work on our concrete. We had to use a buffing machine. We suggest using a new sprayer when applying sealer. We thought the sprayer would be fine to leave over night, but on the second day while applying the second coat our sprayer became clogged and caused some issues. Knowing what we know now, we would have ran warm water through the sprayer after the first day to clean out the tip or we would have used a brand new one.
Direct Colors Products Used:
2 x 5 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™ & ProWax Polish™ Satin Kit
4 x 1 Gal. Charcoal AcquaTint™
1 Qt. ProClean Degreaser™
Other Products Used:
Industrial buffer with diamond pad

Products Used

From Unfinished Basement to Playful Paradise

A daunting task of turning a 2,300 sq ft basement into a livable space becomes a delightful project! The three-year-old concrete floor, stained with black paint, was pressure-washed, sanded, and polished to near-perfection. Despite initial hurdles, applying the Light Charcoal AquaTint™ was a breeze. The low-odor process, safe even for an asthmatic family member, ended with a glossy ProWax Polish™. The result? A perfect play area for kids and a promising next project – the garage! Remember, good prep is key for the best results.

An image showing a concrete basement floor prepped for AquaTint application, having undergone power washing, stripping, and sanding — Prep Work: After power washing, stripping, and sanding, the basement floor is finally ready for the AquaTint application

Image of the basement floor after the second coat of AquaTint. — The basement floor, richly colored after the application of the second AquaTint coat.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 2300 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We decided to make our unfinished basement a more livable space instead of wasting 2,300 square feet. We wanted to do it on a budget and after some research we decided to beautify the concrete that was already there. Starting the project, our concrete was 3 years old and never been sealed. After using a “dry fall” paint on the ceiling (that didn’t dry fall) the floor was essentially covered in areas of black paint. This led to the most daunting part of the project. We pressure washed the floor, stripped it with a chemical product, rented a commercial grade floor sander and sanded the entire floor, and pressure washer it again. After all of that, there was still some stubborn areas we couldn’t get up. We went with the light charcoal AquaTint which did a decent job of hiding our less than perfect areas. It was incredibly easy to apply! Each coat (we did 2 plus 2 of the top wax) took us only an hour to apply. I cannot speak highly enough about the fact that the smell was not overwhelming at all! My husband, who has asthma, had no issues with it. We also were able to keep our two small children in our home while we did the project (they we’re upstairs during the work). Having our floors finished is going to be perfect for allowing the kids to go downstairs and play in their new play area and will make for an easy clean up! We are already planning our next floor project – the garage!
Personal Tips:
Depending on your floor’s condition the prep work is a beast, give yourself plenty of time for that! But actually applying the product is so easy! When I say 3 days, that was only about 4 hours worth of work – most of it was dry time.
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. Light Charcoal AcquaTint™ & ProWax Polish™ Gloss Kit

Products Used

If you’re excited about transforming your indoor spaces, why not extend your creativity outdoors? Check out our blog ‘Charcoal Outdoor Stains: Real DIY Outdoor Projects You’ll Love‘ to discover fantastic ideas for your exterior concrete surfaces.

Terracotta Stained Concrete: Before and After Photos Gallery with How-To Tips

By Justin Richardson

Discover the transformative power of terracotta stained concrete with our before and after photo gallery featuring a variety of projects. From patios to pool decks, terracotta adds a warm and inviting touch to any concrete surface. Learn how to achieve this stunning look with our helpful how-to tips and recommended products. Get inspired for your next project and bring a touch of spice to your outdoor spaces with terracotta stained concrete.

A series of three images showing the restoration of a faded brick paver walkway. The first image depicts the walkway before treatment, looking worn and faded. In the second image, supplies such as a brush, paint tray, and a jug of Portico™ terracotta stain are laid out on the pavers, ready for application. The third image showcases the rejuvenated walkway after staining, with the pavers appearing in a rich, uniform terracotta color, complemented by vibrant flower beds on either side — Before, during, and after: Restoring a faded paver walkway with Portico™ terracotta stain, turning dull bricks into a warm, welcoming path for an approximate cost of $125

Terracotta stained concrete porch with a warm, earthy hue. The stain highlights the natural texture of the concrete for a unique and inviting look.

Products Used

Terra Cotta Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Terracotta

Cumin Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Cumin

Driftwood Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Driftwood

Terracotta Stained Paver Circle Patio Design

A gorgeous terracotta stained patio with a circular paver design featuring an inner circle stained with terracotta, russet, and silver gray Portico stains, while the outer two rows of pavers are stained with charcoal Portico paver stain. The warm and earthy tones of the stain create a beautiful contrast against the charcoal paver border and add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space.

before and after photos of a circular paver design on a patio. The left photo shows the design with faded colors before restoration. The right photo displays the same design with colors restored to vibrant shades, with the outer ring in deep charcoal and the inner circles in a mix of terracotta, russet and silver gray — Circular paver design: before and after hand-stained color restoration

Two images comparing a patio area before and after the restoration of paver color. The first image shows the patio with faded pavers under a metal pergola with outdoor furniture. The second image presents the same view, but with the pavers recolored in shades of terracotta, enhancing the warmth and inviting atmosphere of the outdoor space. — Patio Perfection: Before and After Paver Color Restoration with Portico Stain

Terracotta Portico™ stained paver walkway with a warm, earthy hue, featuring an outer edge stained with charcoal Portico™ paver stain. The stained pavers and charcoal border create a beautiful contrast and add character to any outdoor space. To learn more about staining pavers, check out “Staining & Sealing Concrete Brick Pavers: Tips & Inspiration.“

Before and after images of a front porch walkway restoration. The left photo shows the original discolored pavers. The right photo features the same walkway after restoration, with the pavers in a vibrant terracotta color, complemented by a charcoal edge border, enhancing the home's welcoming appeal. — Front porch walkway restoration: discolored pavers to terracotta and charcoal design

Products Used

Crimson Portico Swatch — Portico™ Crimson

Silver Gray Portico Swatch — Portico™ Silver Gray

Charcoal Portico Swatch — Portico™ Charcoal

Reviving a Faded Driveway with ColorWave Stain

This driveway had previously been stained and had faded over time. To find the best materials for the job, the customer conducted extensive research and ultimately chose to use ColorWave® stain and EasySeal™ sealer. They started the project by thoroughly power washing the surface before applying two coats of stain and two coats of sealer. As a result of their efforts, the driveway was successfully refreshed and the results were excellent.

Revitalize your outdoor space with a pop of color! This scored concrete driveway was transformed with Tangerine ColorWave water-based stain, adding a touch of eco-friendly vibrancy

Details & Tips

Project Info:
- Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
- Estimate of Square Footage: 1000 sq. ft.
- Project Description:
  Driveway was previously stained and faded over time. I did lots of research and determined the best material to use was ColorWave stain and a solvent based sealer. After power washing thoroughly, I applied two coats of stain followed by two coats of sealer. Results are excellent.
- Personal Tips:
  Make sure surface is properly prepared prior to applying stain and sealer.
- Direct Colors Products Used:
  Colorwave and EasySeal satin
Other Products Used:
Ecological based stripper.

Products Used

Dark Patterns Showing Through Stain and Sealer on Patio

Question: Why are dark patterns appearing on my patio stain and sealer after a few weeks, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight?

Answer: This could be due to several reasons. One possibility is the presence of leftover chemicals on the concrete surface from inadequate preparation, leading to an unwanted chemical reaction. Another potential cause could be the application of too many coats of Antiquing stain, resulting in an excessive amount of pigment on the surface and causing adhesion issues with the acrylic surface. It’s also possible that moisture was trapped between the sealer and the concrete surface.

To address the issue, try lightly spritzing a small amount of sealer or xylene (if sealer is not available) on a small area off to the side of the patio. This can help emulsify the sealer and allow any moisture to escape or re-adhere. After it fully cures, check if the issue has been resolved. If not, consider applying a new coat of sealer. It’s crucial to be mindful of the pigment quantity and to ensure proper cleaning and preparation of the surface before staining and sealing.

Patio stained with 3 coats of Terracotta concrete stain — Terracotta stained concrete patio with an over application mishap. The excess stain has caused adhesion issues and is starting to show dark spots only three weeks after application. This serves as a cautionary example of the potential consequences of over-applying stain and the importance of following proper application guidelines.

An image showing a Terracotta stained concrete patio with a mishap. The stain appears to have been applied too heavily, resulting in uneven coverage and an unsightly finish. This serves as an example of the importance of proper stain application techniques and surface preparation before staining concrete. — Terracotta stained concrete patio with a mishap. The stain appears to have been applied too heavily, resulting in uneven coverage and an unsightly finish. This serves as an example of the importance of proper stain application techniques and surface preparation before staining concrete.

Terracotta stained concrete patio — An outdoor patio with scored concrete stained in Antiquing Terracotta stain

Details & Tips

My total square feet is around 180 sq ft. I haven’t started the other area yet due to the current issue with the stain.
I started the project by cleaning the concrete patio area first with water rinse and then with a commercial concrete clean & etch solution using a stiff hand-held bristle broom brush.
I repeated this step several times to make sure that I removed as much of the grime and dirt buildup as possible.
I allowed the area too dry and after drying performed a water test to see if water would absorb in the concrete or remain on the surface.
Water test was successful so I began to tape the area off with painters plastic and tape.
Started applying the Terracotta stain with pump sprayer and using spike shoes. The concrete easily absorbed the stain but seemed to be very light in color that I applied a second coat after allowing the first coat to dry after 5 hours. Temperature was around 85 degrees so the stain was drying rather quickly.
After allowing the second coat to dry overnight. I still needed to apply some more to certain areas that were not as dark as the other areas.
So I ended up applying (3) coats of the Antiquing Terracotta Stain.
After allowing the third application of the stain to dry. I noticed a fine power like dust on the surface of my concrete and was not sure if I needed to proceed before applying the high gloss sealer. I called Direct Colors and was told my product of Antiquing Terracotta can be applied without neutralizing the concrete area.
I then proceeded to apply the EasySeal Gloss Sealer using a pump sprayer. Allowing first coat to dry before applying the second coat.
The patio area looked great but after a couple of weeks dark patterns started to show through the stain and sealer in the area most exposed to direct sunlight.
I must admit that I didn’t use a commercial power washer but hand scrubbing with concrete clean & etch solution and water from my garden hose with a turbo jet high spray hose nozzle.

Direct Colors Reply:

Hi Eric,

My first concern is that the concrete possibly having some of that chemical left on the surface, causing an unwanted chemical reaction. My next concern is having too much of the pigment on the surface with three coats. It is really hard to see the true color of our Antiquing Stain without sealer being applied, and sometimes customers will apply more than what is needed. Once the mineral spirits are dry and done off-gassing, you’re just left with powdered pigments nested on the concrete and in the pores. If there is too much pigment on the surface, this can cause adhesion issues with the acrylic surface. The sealer ends up attaching to the pigment and not the surface of the actual concrete, or it will “lift”, or lose adhesion quickly if not well-bonded to the concrete. It’s also possible that there was a bit of moisture left in the concrete and it has gotten trapped between the sealer and the surface.

So, let’s try something. First, if you have any sealer leftover, use it for this, and if not, pick up a small container of xylene from a local hardware store. In one of the smaller areas, off to the side, very lightly spritz a small amount of the sealer or xylene over it and walk away. This will emulsify the sealer and help it re-adhere or allow the moisture to escape. Allow it to fully cure and let me know how it looks, if it worked or if it goes back to the way it looks now.

Products Used

Transforming a Paver Patio with Stain and Sealer: From Failed Fire Pit to Cohesive Outdoor Space

This project involved transforming a paver patio with a history of failed fire pits and river pebbles. After searching for circular paver kits to fill the hole, the customer found a kit that didn’t match the current pavers, so they stained the circle with charcoal and terracotta Portico™ paver stains to match the existing pavers. They also applied the stain to the concrete back porch and added multiple coats of sealer. The end result was a beautiful and cohesive outdoor space.

A circular paver design on a charcoal Portico stained patio with an inner circle stained in terracotta. The warm earthy tones of the terracotta provide a striking contrast to the charcoal pavers, creating a beautiful and unique design for any outdoor space.

A circular paver design in warm terracotta hues is surrounded by charcoal Portico stained patio concrete pavers. The stained pavers and charcoal border create a beautiful contrast and add character to any outdoor space.

Details & Tips

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Ten years ago we had installed a paver patio on the back of our home. At the time we had installed a brick fire pit in the center, but due to the shape of the back porch it was never workable at the corner caused smoke to swirl upwards and everyone hated it. After a few years I knocked down the brick firepit but was left with a hole that I filled with river pebbles with the intention of finding a circular outdoor rug to cover it under the table. I was never able to find a rug that we liked so we were left with pebbles constantly being kicked everywhere and a place our dog used to dig in. I decided to see if I could find a circular paver kit that could fill in the hole and found one and had it installed last fall. The pavers were supposed to have a reddish tint to them, but instead came mostly gray and they did not match the current pavers at all. I then found you guys and decided to stain the circle a red tint and darken the existing gray pavers. After consulting you guys I ordered a test kit and decided on Terra Cotta and Charcoal colors. I first pressure washed the existing pavers and then adding polymeric sand. After drying I sprayed on the coat of Terra Cotta in the circle and then followed with the Charcoal for the grays. I decided to do the concrete back porch as well. I came back later and added additional coats of Charcoal by brush to the darkest existing gray pavers as well as the darkest Red pavers to give it more of a cobble stone effect. After fully drying I began adding the sealant. Ended up with approximately three coats of sealer.
Personal Tips:
With no differences in color or places that you need to protect it’s an incredibly easy job. However, if the plan is to maintain an edge between two distinct colors, plan it out ahead of time. The pavers I was working with were VERY porous, so it absorbed and spread into them like alcohol would into chalk. Even when I was doing the parts by hand I needed to be careful to not get too close to the edge for fear of it bleeding. Also be aware of some overspray. Finally, even though I’d done the math I would have been happier had I ordered an additional bottle of Charcoal and Sealant. I ended up ordering a third bottle of sealer during the project because it was clear l I was not going to have enough to put down as many layers as I’d have liked. Because of that the project took a week longer because I had to wait for the order to come in.

Products Used

Looking for inspiration on how to transform your outdoor space with stained pavers? Check out our Before and After Gallery featuring Stained Concrete Pavers, and get ready to elevate the look of your patio, walkway, or pool deck.

Stunning Stained Pavers Driveway

Check out what this DC customer created with four different Portico™ paver stain colors. Then, they followed up that earthy color combo with some acrylic sealer. The pavers on the driveway almost match the porch – how cool is that?

Check out our Stained Concrete Driveway Gallery, How-To Guide, and Staining Tips for a variety of driveway stain ideas to transform your driveway with ease.

Products Used

Portico Driftwood Concrete Paver Stain — Portico™ Driftwood

Portico Yukon Gold Concrete Paver Stain — Portico™ Yukon Gold

Aztec Brown Portico Swatch — Portico™ Aztec Brown

Staining an Old Concrete Patio: From Failed Acid Stain to Portico Stains Success

After attempting to acid stain a 30-year-old concrete patio with no success, Direct Colors suggested the customer try Portico stains as an alternative solution. By using the Portico stains, the customer was able to achieve the desired results and transform the patio with ease.

Acid stain color did not take on this slab — Acid stain colors did not take on this slab

Fixing acid stain color with Portico stains — Fixed acid stain color with Portico stains

Fixing a bad acid stain job — Aztec brown, fern green, olive and terracotta Portico stains

Aztec brown, fern green, olive and terracotta concrete stain — Aztec brown, fern green, olive and terracotta Portico stains

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 285 sq. ft.
Project Description:
this was a raised concrete patio on top of a wine cellar. It was roughly 30 years old. Tried acid staining Cola worked good. But avocado did not take. So I switch to Portico. What a great product!! It did everything I hope it would do plus more. Love this product. Everybody on your staff that I spoke to was so informative and helpful great bunch of people you have!
Personal Tips:
don’t be afraid to try the different colors. I preferred wet on wet worked really well. And you need to have the spike shoes. it is very important that you wear them! You cannot make a mistake with this product. However the color comes is the way it is and it’s beautiful no matter which way you look at it. You just have to have patience. And maybe in artistic flair. Again great product. But most of all you need to take your TIME!
Direct Colors Products Used:
Aztec brown, fern green, olive, Terracotta Portico stains & EasySeal satin.

Other Products Used:
Pro clean neutralizer, acid stain avocado, acid stain cola.

Products Used

Portico Fern Green Concrete Stain — Portico™ Fern Green

Adding Dimension to Concrete Landscaping Rocks with Concrete Stains

After creating concrete “landscaping rocks”, a customer wanted to add some dimension to them and found that Direct Colors’ DIY Trial Kit was the perfect solution. By using Terracotta concrete stain as the base and adding Eagle Grey stain for shadows, the rocks were transformed with a beautiful and unique finish.

staining concrete landscaping rocks — DIY concrete landscaping rocks

DIY eagle gray and terracotta stained concrete landscaping rocks — Eagle gray, silver gray and Terra Cotta Portico stains

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 0.00 sq. ft.
Project Description: I made some concrete “landscaping rocks” a while back and wanted to add some dimension to them. Direct Color’s DIY Trial Kit was the perfect amount for my project! I used Terracotta for the base, with a little Eagle Grey for some shadows. The whole project is sealed with the Satin Sealer.
Personal Tips:
Direct Colors Products Used: Portico™ Paver Stain Trial Kit: Terracotta, Eagle Gray, Satin Finish
Other Products Used: Buddy Rhodes Vertical Concrete Mix Buddy Rhodes Concrete Pigment Colorant – Color Sand (for base)

Restoring a Faded Scored Concrete Living Room Floor with Terracotta Stain

To restore a faded scored concrete living room floor, the customer utilized AcquaTint™ Terracotta concrete stain. The results were a stunning revival of the flooring’s vibrancy, bringing the room to life with warm and earthy tones.

AcquaTint Terra Cotta Stain on Living Room Concrete Floor

Products Used

Yukon Gold Project Gallery: Outdoor Concrete Staining Masterpieces

From patios to driveways, witness the golden touch of Yukon Gold stain revitalizing spaces. Discover inspiration for your next outdoor makeover.

By Justin Richardson

Golden Renewal: Michigan Pool Deck Transformation

From harsh winters to scorching summers, this Michigan pool deck got a luminous makeover with Yukon Gold EasyTint™. With dedicated sealing and a splash of color, the backyard gleams anew! 🌟🍂

A faded stamped concrete pool deck, showing signs of wear and weathering — Faded stamped concrete pool deck, showing signs of wear and weathering

Two female customers diligently applying the Yukon Gold EasyTint second coat to a stamped concrete deck — Hands-on Transformation: Dedicated homeowners rolling out the rich Yukon Gold EasyTint for a vibrant second coat on their stamped concrete deck

Weathered pool patio with darker spots under rugs and furniture — Worn pool patio with damage from harsh elements

Revitalized pool patio with Yukon Gold EasyTint™ — The refreshed pool patio transformed with Yukon Gold EasyTint™

A faded stamped concrete deck, showing signs of wear and weathering — Before: The stamped concrete deck, once radiant, now reveals the wear of time

Revitalized stamped concrete deck, freshly stained, showcasing rich and renewed colors — After: The deck springs back to life, its stamped concrete gleaming with a fresh stain

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Our Michigan pool patio takes a beating with winters, wind, rain and salt pool water. We used direct color 5 years ago using tinted sealer with a clear coat top and it held up, more so under rugs and furniture as you can see in the darker spots on the before pic. We had done a darker stain then but the patio gets to be around 130 degrees in peak summer days, so we picked Yukon Gold this time for a warmer still brown, less dark option. We applied 2 coats of EasyTint tinted sealer on separate days and the 3rd day we used the EasySeal clear satin coat. Without a sprayer, we rolled and filled in the stamped concrete with 3/8 in paint rollers and paint brush for those hard to reach spots. This application took two people a total of 20 man hours for the area we had. We used 10 gallons of tinted sealer and about 3 gallons of clear sealer to coat. I am beyond thrilled with the result and feel like I have a brand new backyard again!
Personal Tips:
If you don’t have a good sprayer, we found the sealer just clogs and wasn’t worth the time spent, which is why we rolled it and also didn’t have to worry about over spray. 18 in rollers were great at getting more area done quickly and if your patio gets too hot and your coat gets too thick, you will have bubbling, but to me, it’s always better looking than the original anyway.
Direct Colors Products Used:
EasyTint™ Colors Trial Kit (Yukon Gold, Tweed, Cafe Royale)
2 x 5 Gal. Yukon Gold EasyTint™ Satin
5 Gal. EasySeal™ Satin
2 x 16 Oz. OxiGrip™ Slip-Resistant Additive
Other Products Used:
Just paint supplies, rollers, brushes, sponges, rags, gloves, tarp

View Products Used

Tinted Sealer Yukon Gold — EasyTint™Yukon Gold

Golden Drive with a Black-Tie Edge!

Jazz up your journey home with this refinished driveway! Boasting a smooth Resurface-It™ overlay, it’s stained in cozy Yukon Gold and framed with a sleek Black EasyTint edge. A warm invitation with a modern twist.

Concrete driveway stained with Yukon Gold Antiquing Stain and Black EasyTint — Concrete driveway stained with yukon gold Antiquing stain and black EasyTint tinted concrete sealer

View Products Used

Yukon Gold Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Yukon Gold

Sun-Kissed to Sun-Faded: Woodland Hills Revival!

From Mesa Buff to a sun-bleached hue, this Woodland Hills backyard seeks a rejuvenated splash of color! Tackling the decade-old stamped concrete, a DIY enthusiast is on the hunt for the perfect shade between Tweed and Wheat. Ready to trade generic store buys for specialized expertise, they’re all set to bring the golden Californian glow back to their yard!

A before photo showing a wide expanse of faded and colorless stamped concrete around a pool, fire pit, and extending to other areas of the backyard

Staining a Faded Concrete Pool Deck — During

Stained Stamped Concrete Pool Deck — Before Sealer

Stained and Sealed Concrete Pool Deck — After

An after photo showing the refreshed stamped concrete around the pool, fire pit, and other areas of the backyard, now stained with a rich Yukon Gold color and sealed with a satin finish — After the transformation: The backyard comes alive again with the rich Yukon Gold Antiquing™ Stain and a satin finish from EasySeal™

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 2000 sq. ft.
Project Description:
This was my first experience staining and sealing outdoor stamped concrete. After doing a little research online, I found Direct Colors. Their website was easy to navigate with all the resources and products necessary to get the job done. I emailed them for a project consultation and received a response the very next day with the answers to all my questions, along with the links to everything I needed to get the job done. I wanted to stain and seal approximately 2,000 sq ft of stamped concrete in my backyard that had faded over a 10-year period. I immediately ordered the Direct Colors sample kit and decided to go with the Yukon Gold Antiquing Stain and the Solvent Based Acrylic Satin Concrete Sealer. Prior to staining and sealing, I power washed the concrete, making sure it was completely clean. As soon as that dried, I was ready to apply the first coat of stain. Considering this was my first time staining and sealing concrete, the project went quite smoothly and I was extremely happy with the overall results. I was a little reluctant to use the pump sprayer at first, as I thought I would end up putting too much on and wasting a lot of product, so I decided to apply the stain and sealer with a nap roller, around the pool and fire pit area. After finishing that section, I decided to use the pump sprayer to finish the rest of the concrete starting by the big tree in my pictures and ending at the gate, on the other side of the house. Glad I did, because using the pump sprayer vs. the nap roller was like night and day. The amount of area I covered using the nap roller, I did in a fraction of the time using the pump sprayer. The whole project took me about 7 days, where I probably spent 4 of those days working and the rest, allowing the stain and sealer to dry.
Personal Tips:

Buy a pump sprayer. The time it took to spray the stain and sealer vs. rolling with the nap roller was like night and day. (Important Note: If you have acetone based dyes in your stain or sealer, buy a pump sprayer that’s acetone resistant, otherwise the acetone will ruin the sprayer hose, seals and gaskets.)
Surface preparation is extremely important when it comes to your final overall look

Direct Colors Products Used:
EasyTint™ Colors Trial Kit (Wheat, Tweed, Yukon Gold)
2 x 5 Gal. Yukon Gold EasyTint™ Satin
2 x 5 Gal. EasySeal™ Satin
2 x 16 Oz. OxiGrip™ Slip-Resistant Additive
Other Products Used:
2300 PSI power washer
Paint Stripper for concrete
Paint brush
Scrub brush

View Products Used

Golden Mélange: A Drive & Walk Delight!

Take a step on the sun-kissed side! This driveway and walkway are artistically mottled with a 50-50 blend of Yukon Gold and Goldenrod, creating a luminous and textured journey from curb to door.

A stained driveway showcasing a mottled look from a blend of Yukon Gold and Goldenrod Antiquing stains — Before the House: A driveway delightfully dappled in a sunny blend of Yukon Gold and Goldenrod

A stained walkway exuding warm tones with the unique mix of Yukon Gold and Goldenrod Antiquing stains — To the Door: A walkway warmed with the inviting mottled hues of Yukon Gold and Goldenrod

View Products Used

Goldenrod Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing Goldenrod

Multi-Colored Paver Driveway Transformation with Portico™ Paver Stains

View Products Used

Honeycomb Pattern Concrete Pavers

If you have a concrete pavers patio, using multiple colors is certainly a way to create visual interest!

That’s exactly what was done here. Tinted concrete sealer in gold and Driftwood brown added some fun aesthetics to these hexagon pavers next to the garden.

View Products Used

Driftwood EasyTint Swatch — EasyTint™Driftwood

Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye: Your Ticket to DIY Magic!

Welcome to the fun world of DIY with Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye! This is not just any gray – it’s your new best friend for jazzing up concrete spaces! From driveways to basements and even garages, this gallery is bursting with cool ideas on how to bring some stormy goodness to your projects.

By Justin Richardson

Concrete Chic: Guest Room Makeover Magic!

This isn’t just a bedroom renovation, it’s a love letter to raw materials! Waving goodbye to old linoleum, our DIY wizard scraped, ground, patched, and cleaned the floor back to its concrete glory.

DIYer using a floor scraper to remove old linoleum tile and mastic from a concrete floor — Out with the old! Chipping away the past to make room for the new, Stormy Gray future!

Fully furnished guest bedroom showcasing a beautifully dyed concrete floor. — The Grand Makeover: From bare concrete to a chic guest bedroom! Who's ready to visit and admire the Stormy Gray concrete floor up close?

DIYer grinding the concrete floor with an angle grinder and diamond pad and filling cracks with a concrete patching compound — Smoothing out the rough edges. A little grind, a little patch, and voilà - ready for the Stormy Gray magic!

Concrete floor showing the depth and variation in color after a second coat of Charcoal Vibrance Dye applied with a sponge — Double the Charcoal, double the fun! Check out the depth and character added by the sponge-applied second coat!

Concrete floor showcasing a sophisticated blend of Stormy Gray and Charcoal Vibrance Dye after the final coat. — The Stormy Gray finale! This light touch of gray perfectly complements the Charcoal, tying the whole look together. Patience is key - great results take time!

Final look of a concrete floor gleaming with a matte finish after the application of Behr Concrete Sealer. — The Final Reveal: Hello, Matte Magnificence! Sealed with Behr, our Stormy Gray and Charcoal masterpiece is ready to take on the world!

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 120 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I was doing a complete rehab of a guest bedroom addition that was built on a concrete pad with the vision emphasizing the beauty of raw building materials. Direct Colors Vibrance Dye was the perfect solution for enhancing the beauty of the raw floor while maintaining the integrity of the material. The floor was previously covered with old linoleum tile flooring so the first step was to chip away the tile and remove the old mastic with a floor scraper and mastic remover. I then went in and did a light grind of the floor with an angle grinder and diamond pad to remove any remaining mastic and remove any major imperfections in the floor. Then I filled any cracks with a concrete patching compound. After meticulously cleaning the concrete and taping my walls to avoid any over spray, we were ready to apply the Vibrance Dye. The first coat of Charcoal was applied lightly with a garden sprayer and allowed to dry overnight. The second coat of Charcoal was applied with a sponge in an effort to add dimension to the finish and help conceal any major imperfections in the concrete. Lastly, I applied a very light coat of Stormy Gray and Charcoal, allowing 8 hours between coats.
Personal Tips:
Garden Sprayers can be fickle. Be prepared to catch any drips from the nozzle and have some warm water in a bucket handy to clean the nozzle in the event that it clogs. I tested some areas with the Preval Aerosol sprayer and was able to achieve a very uniform spray. This method wouldn’t be ideal for large spaces, but is definitely feasible for a single room. Embrace imperfections! That’s the beauty of concrete and this product.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye
1 Gal. Charcoal Vibrance™ Dye
Other Products Used:
Behr Concrete Sealer in a Matte finish.

View Products Used

Charcoal Vibrance Dye Color Swatch — Vibrance™ Charcoal

Sunroom Serenade: A Stormy Gray Makeover!

This sunroom’s transition into a stylish dining area is a thing of beauty. With Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye and the right sealer, the dusty floor was reborn, now garnishing plenty of compliments. Customer service came to the rescue answering all questions, making this makeover a sunroom serenade! For a deep dive into this transformation, check out our blog post: “Revamp Your Sunroom Flooring: Tips & Tricks.”

Stormy Gray Concrete Dye on Sunroom concrete floor — After

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 225 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We wanted a nice looking floor to turn our sunroom into a dinning area. Our floor went from non-astatically appealing and dusty, to a stormy grey color with a nice sealer. We get many compliments!
Personal Tips:
Make sure your room is at the correct temp. Reach out to costumer service for help, they answered all of my many questions!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye
5 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Satin Concrete Sealer
Other Products Used:
wet vac to prep floor with dish soap, steel floor brushes to clean, and acetone pumper from directcolors.com

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Concrete Dye Application How To Guide

Unleashing Creativity With Tweed Vibrance™ Dye

Stormy Gray Meets Modern Kitchen: A Recipe for Style!

Feast your eyes on this tasty kitchen transformation! Our DIY superstar used a blend of Stormy Gray, White, and Charcoal Vibrance Dye to create a sleek, modern concrete floor that perfectly complements the white cabinets and island. It’s a delicious mix of classic and contemporary that makes this kitchen the perfect spot for cooking up style!

Blend of Stormy Gray, White, and Charcoal Vibrance Dye to create a sleek, modern concrete floor

Sleek, modern concrete floor showcasing a blend of Stormy Gray, White, and Charcoal Vibrance Dye

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Garage Glam: Stormy Gray’s Cool Makeover!

Who said garages can’t be stylish? Check out this cool transformation featuring a mottled mix of Stormy Gray, White, and Black Vibrance Dye. The result? A garage floor that’s dark, dramatic, and dripping with cool factor. It’s a revamp that really revs up the style in this space!

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Garage Grandeur: A Stormy Gray DIY Triumph!

Ditching conventional flakes and paint, this garage transformation opted for a swirl of charcoal, stormy gray, and white from our Vibrance concrete dye collection. The stunning finish has left the neighborhood in awe.

New concrete garage floor prepped for dye application. — Prepping the new concrete floor by grinding it down for optimal dye adhesion—ensuring a smooth, professional finish with Vibrance dye.

A striking transformation of a plain concrete garage floor into a unique, eye-catching surface using Vibrance concrete dye in charcoal, stormy gray, and white shades — Stunningly finished garage floor, dyed in shades of charcoal, stormy gray, and white, reflecting a glossy finish from the polyaspartic clear coat

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1000 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Was looking to finish my new concrete garage floor with something other than flakes and paint. Scrolled the internet for ideas and found the Vibrance concrete dye. I really liked the look of the charcoal, stormy gray and white pics advertised on website. I rented a concrete grinder to prep floor for dye. Spraying the three colors of dye was a very easy process. Topped the floor with a polyaspartic clear coat so floor would be suitable for intended garage use. I Can’t be any happier with the results. All my neighbors and friends can’t believe I did this myself. I highly recommend this product to anyone. If you want a professional looking floor different from all your neighbors give it a try yourself.
Personal Tips:
Take your time and prepare floor accordingly. I used grinder, then pressure washed concrete. Let concrete dry before applying product. Use please use a good acetone approved sprayer.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Vibrance™ Dye Trial Kit (Stormy Gray, Charcoal & White)
2.5 lbs. Patch-Rx™ Concrete Repair
1 Gal. Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye
1 Gal. Charcoal Vibrance™ Dye
1 Gal. White Vibrance™ Dye
Other Products Used:
Polyaspartic clear coat

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Carpet No More: A Cozy Concrete Makeover!

Kissed goodbye to the old carpet and said hello to a concrete floor of dreams with Vibrance Dye in White, Stormy Grey, and Charcoal. The prep work may seem daunting, but the outcome? Absolutely lovable!

Cleaning - Concrete floor covered in residual carpet glue, creating a textured and uneven surface — Before Cleaning: Carpet Glue Woes

After Cleaning - Smooth, clean concrete floor, free of carpet glue and ready for dye application — After Cleaning: All Set for Transformation

After Applying Vibrance Dye - Concrete floor freshly coated in hues of White, Stormy Grey, and Charcoal, showing a beautiful marbled effect — Color Play: The Vibrance Dye Transformation

After Applying AcquaSeal Satin Sealer - Concrete floor with a protective coating of satin sealer, enhancing the vibrancy of the dye — Securing the Beauty: The AcquaSeal Satin Effect

polished concrete floor post ProWax polish application — The Polished Canvas: Awaiting the Grand Furnishing

After ProWax Polish - A shiny, fully furnished room showcasing the final result of the concrete floor transformation, reflecting the light beautifully — The Grand Reveal: Shiny and Furnished, Ready for Living

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 800 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We removed the carpet out of our living room and used the vibrance dye to fix up the concrete underneath it. We love the outcome!
Personal Tips: Be prepared for the prep work.
Direct Colors Products Used:
2.5 lbs. Patch-Rx™ Concrete Repair
1 Gal. Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye
1 Gal. Charcoal Vibrance™ Dye
1 Gal. White Vibrance™ Dye
5 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Satin Concrete Sealer
Other Products Used:
Acetone

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Cabin Floor Glow-Up: From Plain to Perfectly Pigmented!

Bringing the beauty of nature indoors, this cabin’s concrete floor got a majestic makeover using our Vibrance dye. The intricate blend of stormy gray, charcoal, and a touch of white has given this cabin a floor that truly stands out.

Freshly ground concrete floor of a cabin with a broom laid across, indicating recent cleaning — Starting fresh: Post-grinding clean-up to prep the canvas

Cabin concrete floor showing the initial coat of Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye — Laying the foundation: The first coat of Stormy Gray sets the tone

Concrete floor after additional spraying, with dominant white hues blending into charcoal Vibrance Dye — Adding character: Sprayed layers of white and subtle charcoal give depth to the floor

Finished cabin concrete floor, showcasing the rich blend of Vibrance dyes — Finale: The beautiful blend of Vibrance dyes culminates in this stunning cabin floor transformation

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 1 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1080 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We used the Vibrance dye to dye our cabin concrete floor.
First we used a grinder to buff up the concrete as well as clean debris that had gotten on it.
We mopped and cleaned it multiple times before we applied the acetone/dye mixture, which we had actually mixed days prior to applying it.We used 2 coats of stormy gray, 1 coat of charcoal, and 1 coat of white. It evaporated very quickly to allow for fast drying times.Then we rolled and brushed on a sealer and eventually will be further protecting it with a wax. We like how it turned out.
Personal Tips:
Just a note that the sealer does make it overall look darker/richer in color, so if you want a lighter floor be sure it’s pretty light before applying the sealer.We had a few splatters and spray spots, but a second person with a bucket to catch the spray at the start and stop of the spraying helps a lot.
Direct Colors Products Used:
3 x 1 Gal. Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye
1 Gal. Charcoal Vibrance™ Dye (Used 1/2 Gallon)
1 Gal. White Vibrance™ Dye
5 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Satin Concrete Sealer

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Basement Beauty: DIY Stormy Gray Transformation!

Say hello to a basement that’s not just livable, but lovable! This couple rolled up their sleeves, grabbed their grinders, and turned their 100-year-old stained basement floor into a showstopper using a mix of White, Stormy Gray, and Charcoal Vibrance Dye. For a deep dive into this project, check out our detailed post, “How To Color Your Indoor Concrete Floors Using Concrete Dye.“

Refinished Concrete Basement with Vibrance Dye — Refinished Concrete Basement with Stormy Gray, White & Charcoal Vibrance Dye Colors

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 600 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My husband and I had a goal to make our basement a livable space! After getting pricy quotes on having professionals stain our basement floor, we decided this was a project we would tackle ourselves for a fraction of the cost. Our home is 100 years old and our floor had a variety of old stains, spray paint and overspray on it. In order to get all of the old material off we decided to rent a concrete grinder for the day. This allowed us to remove all of the old paint from the floor so we had a really clean slate to work with. There were a few sections that the larger grinder could not get to, for these trouble areas we used a handheld angle grinder with a surface grinding tool. We has a few small hairline cracks in our floor. We decided to patch these before dying the floor with a basic cement mix from your local hardware store.Next, we cleaned up all of the dust (and in full transparency, there was a ton of dust). Next we moped the floor 3 times. Once with soapy water, and twice through with clean water.
After it was fully dry, we taped off our walls with plastic. Now it was time to spray! We sprayed one coat of solvent based satin sealer. We waited for the sealer to dry for approx.. 12 hours. Next we sprayer 2 coats of White Vibrance Dye (waiting the recommend dry time between coats). After leaving this to dry we sprayed 2 coats of Stormy Grey Vibrance Dye (waiting the recommended wait time between coats). Our last coat of dye was to add some dimension to the floor, this was achieved with the Charcoal Grey Vibrance Dye. After waiting for the final coat to dry, we finished up with 2 coats of the solvent based satin sealer. Leaving 12 hours wait time between each coat. We are so thrilled with how our floor turned out. After getting a ridiculously high quote, we were encouraged by the team at Direct Colors that we could tackle this on our own, and they were right! We would 100% do this again. We cannot recommend the products and team at Direct Colors enough. They walked us through this project start to finish, making us feel confident that we could do this.
Personal Tips:
Some personal tips that might help others:

-Test your sprayer before you begin to make sure it is going to spray properly.

-Do not skimp out on the prep work! This is so important to get a really great end result.

-Have a bucket and rag with you when spraying the dye. Our sprayer dripped a few times. Having a rag and bucket next to us allowed us to fix the dye on the floor and drab off the end of the sprayer.

-Wait about 1 hour and half for the dye to be ready before spraying. One coat we waited only about 1 hour, and the dye was not ready to go and clogged the sprayer.

-The biggest issue we had was sprayer malfunctions, but do not let that deter you! You can do this and it will be worth it!

Direct Colors Products Used:
2.5 lbs. Patch-Rx™ Concrete Repair
2 x 1 Gal. Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye
2 x 1 Gal. Charcoal Vibrance™ Dye
2 x 1 Gal. White Vibrance™ Dye
5 Gal. EasySeal™ Satin Concrete Sealer

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Rustic Radiance: BBQ Table Makeover

A fusion of traditional rustic vibes and modern aesthetics, this BBQ table countertop boasts a Driftwood Vibrance Dye base with bold strokes of Stormy Gray accents.

Concrete slabs, glossy and protected after sealing — Sealed for perfection: Slabs showcasing a radiant gloss finish, thanks to EasySeal

Concrete countertop perched on a rustic wood base featuring a round red BBQ with its lid — The grand reveal: A rustic-modern BBQ table, ready to be the star of every cookout

Freshly cured concrete slabs awaiting transformation — The starting point: Rapid set mortar concrete slabs cured and ready

Concrete slabs displaying the depth of Driftwood and Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye — Vibrance in action: Driftwood base complemented by bold Stormy Gray accents

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Sepia Vibrance Swatch — Vibrance™ Driftwood

Glossy Grandeur: Stormy Gray Condo Transformation!

From basic to brilliant, this condo floor got a shiny new upgrade! Our savvy DIYer combined Stormy Gray and Driftwood Vibrance Dye, topped it off with a glossy sealer, and then gave it a final high-shine polish.

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Stormy Elegance: Condo Floor Makeover!

Who knew Stormy Gray, Charcoal and Driftwood could bring such warmth? With a touch of Vibrance Dye and a gentle seal, this condo’s floor, bathrooms and foyer all exude understated elegance. It’s a space that invites you to kick off your shoes and stay awhile!

Concrete bathroom floor dyed with a blend of Stormy Gray, Driftwood, and Charcoal Vibrance Dye — Concrete bathroom floor dyed with a blend of Stormy Gray and Driftwood Vibrance Dye

Concrete kitchen floor showcasing a modern mix of Stormy Gray, Driftwood, and Charcoal Vibrance Dye. — Concrete kitchen floor showcasing a modern mix of Stormy Gray and Driftwood Vibrance Dye

Living room concrete floor beautifully stained with Stormy Gray, Driftwood, and Charcoal Vibrance Dye — Living room concrete floor beautifully stained with Stormy Gray and Driftwood Vibrance Dye

Foyer featuring a concrete floor dyed with an elegant combination of Stormy Gray, Driftwood, and Charcoal Vibrance Dye — Foyer featuring a concrete floor dyed with an elegant combination of Stormy Gray and Driftwood Vibrance Dye

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Stormy Basement Revamp: From Drab to Fab!

Our DIY hero ripped out mismatched flooring, restored the original concrete, and added a splash of stylish grays. Top tip? Experiment with application techniques for a personalized touch. With a bit of creativity and a can-do attitude, you can transform any space into a chic haven.

Stormy Gray, Light Slate & White Vibrance Dye on Concrete Basement — Stormy gray, light slate and white Vibrance dye on bedroom concrete floor

For Project Details & Tips

Project Completed In: 365 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1120 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My basement concrete floor had four different types of flooring. I removed them all to the original concrete slab. All done by hand to minimize dust. Removed concrete paint from family room, closet under stairs and hallway.
Removed tile, glue and concrete leveling material from bedroom number one.
Removed laminate from bedroom number two.
Removed vinyl from bathroom.
Personal Tips:
Try different techniques (sponge, rag, brush, sprayer) to get the look you like.
Watch the Direct Colors videos for tips and ideas.
Direct Colors Products Used:
2.5 lbs. Patch-Rx™ Concrete Repair
5 Gal. Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye
1 Gal. Light Slate Vibrance™ Dye
5 Gal. White Vibrance™ Dye
5 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Satin Concrete Sealer
Other Products Used:
P36 sandpaper
Paint stripper

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Light Slate Concrete Dye Color Swatch — Vibrance Dye - Light Slate

Conquering the Concrete: A Stormy Gray Victory!

With some serious grinding, pouring, and a little bit of creative veining, this DIYer transformed an unorthodox project into a beautiful stained floor using a mix of Stormy Gray, White, and Charcoal Vibrance Dye. Beware of stepping in freshly sprayed dye, though!

patching and leveling damaged concrete floors — Patching and leveling damaged concrete floors

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1600 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Headache!!! I had an extremely unlevel floor. I had to grind down some areas 1 inch (about 400 sq. ft.) and had to raise 300 sq. ft. 1 inch to get things overall with 1/2″. Then I had to pour 180 bags of the floor leveler and of course I was 16 bags short. This meant I was left with a cold joint for the final finish which I tried to accentuate and create a vein out of. Then I had to grind the surface to a 200 grit and blend the cold joint. Finally it was time to stain and stormy gray, white, and charcoal created one beautiful stained floor. This was a bit of an unorthodox project but I’m happy with it. I have more pictures also. I also plan to add a couple coats of direct colors floor wax when it arrives. I think that’ll really blend things out. I’ll know soon…
Personal Tips:
If possible to test your stain application and top coating method exactly as you plan to before hand, do it. My project turned out great from a stain aspect but the epoxy primer and urethane was only ok and I could have made that better but it’s alright for a first timer. Also, with the vibrance dye, don’t be dumb like me and step in it right after you spray it. I didn’t enjoy working those prints out. Finally, I may have applied too much stain but I found when applying my finish some dye would come up especially when brushing the edges. If possible, roll the edges when cutting in.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Vibrance™ Dye Trial Kit (Stormy Gray, Light Slate & White)
5 Gal. Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye
5 Gal. Charcoal Vibrance™ Dye
5 Gal. White Vibrance™ Dye
5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin
Other Products Used: VSEAL epoxy primer and urethane (3015 and 3321) industra-coat.

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Dark Depths: The Stormy Gray Basement Retreat!

Navigating the fine line between charcoal and gray, this DIYer has created a basement that embraces the shadows. With patience and precision, the Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye settled into a deep hue that transformed the space into a cozy, dark retreat.

Stormy Gray, White & Charcoal Vibrance Dye on Concrete Basement Floor

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Basement Stormy Gray application.
Personal Tips:
I would suggest waiting the complete 6 hours for dye to cure. It’s better to be safe, and let it completely cure. Also, the stormy gray will come out a little darker at first. You will need to spray some in a bucket at first to get that out. Otherwise, it will look like a charcoal color.
Direct Colors Products Used:
3 x 1 Gal. Stormy Gray Vibrance™ Dye
3 x 1 Gal. Charcoal Vibrance™ Dye
3 x 1 Gal. White Vibrance™ Dye
4x 1 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Satin
Other Products Used:
3 gallon Acetone sprayer, Acetone, and a brush.

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Streamlined Driveway Design On A Budget

Using gray concrete dye in two colors, our customer made some clean lines on their concrete driveway. Then, they finished up with EasySeal. It’s amazing what concrete dye powder can do to add some much-needed color!

This image showcases a concrete driveway with a stunning geometric design, achieved through the application of Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye. The process involved carefully avoiding the areas that were taped off to remain a lighter color, resulting in a unique and eye-catching design. — Concrete driveway with a stunning geometric design, achieved through the application of Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye. The process involved carefully avoiding the areas that were taped off to remain a lighter color, resulting in a unique and eye-catching design.

This is an image of a concrete driveway after the second coat of Stormy Gray Vibrance dye has been applied. — Concrete driveway after the second coat of Stormy Gray Vibrance dye has been applied.

Image of a concrete driveway after the application of Stormy Gray Vibrance dye has dried, revealing a lighter shade that will be accentuated with the application of sealer. — Concrete driveway after the application of Stormy Gray Vibrance dye has dried, revealing a lighter shade that will be accentuated with the application of sealer.

This image shows the next step in the concrete driveway staining process, where the previously stained areas with Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye are now covered and the uncovered areas are being stained with Light Slate Vibrance Dye. — Next step in the concrete driveway staining process, where the previously stained areas with Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye are now covered and the uncovered areas are being stained with Light Slate Vibrance Dye.

Final Result of Stained Concrete Driveway with a Stunning Design featuring Stormy Gray and Light Slate Color Bands.

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DIY Dining Table Concrete & Wood

Concrete and wood just look so nice together! 😍 Learn how to make a custom concrete & wood dining table just as unique as this one. Check out our dining table how to guide.

Charcoal Dye stained concrete and reclaimed wood dining table

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Basement Brilliance: Stormy Gray Unleashed

Patience paid off in this basement makeover! Waiting the full six hours for the Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye to cure was key. Despite its initial darker appearance, the color lightened up, swapping charcoal vibes for the perfect stormy ambiance. Now, this basement is more like a secret hideaway!

Dye Stained Concrete Living Room Floor — Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye on Concrete Living Room Floor

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Cinnabar Creations: A Customer Showcase

our innovative customers have embraced the vibrant touch of Cinnabar to revitalize and redefine their spaces. From patios to countertops, witness the versatility and charm of this beloved hue.

By Justin Richardson

Reviving Memories with Cinnabar!

Our client beautifully rejuvenated their decade-old patio using our Cinnabar Antiquing™ Stain. The transformation is remarkable, proving that with the right products, old can become gold again.

Prepped patio area with faded stamped concrete, covered edges with masking tape and paper to protect from Cinnabar stain application — Before: Faded stamped concrete patio prepped with masking tape and paper to protect edges before the stain application

Patio floor with rich Cinnabar staining, sealed to perfection, showcasing enhanced color vibrancy. — Post-Staining Elegance: Cinnabar's rich hue breathing new life into the patio, sealed for longevity

Full view of the rejuvenated patio, gleaming in its complete Cinnabar stained glory — Patio Perfection: A breathtaking expanse showcasing the Cinnabar's transformative touch

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:

Hi, Have completed my patio project using both your Cinnabar Antiquing Stain and Easy Seal Satin Sealer.

The patio turned out beautiful………..as good as ‘brand new’. The Cinnabar color was the perfect choice as it matched up with the original color used at installation 10 years ago.

I’ve took several pictures comparing both before and after and I’m happy to share. Any questions regarding them, just ask!

The only comment I would make is that you should provide simple directions for cleaning the pump sprayer and the need to ‘rapidly’ clean after use. I did have to replace the sprayer ‘mid-job’ as I had allowed it to sit and become ‘gummed up’! A pint of Acetone would have saved me $30 and a trip to Ace.

I should have realized that this could happen, but didn’t. Bottom line, cleaning is a snap…………if you know you need to do it!

Product was easy to use, excellent results, and your staff provided excellent ‘phone’ assistance as I worked through it.

Personal Tips:
The only comment I would make is that you should provide simple directions for cleaning the pump sprayer and the need to ‘rapidly’ clean after use. I did have to replace the sprayer ‘mid-job’ as I had allowed it to sit and become ‘gummed up’! A pint of Acetone would have saved me $30 and a trip to Ace. I should have realized that this could happen, but didn’t. Bottom line, cleaning is a snap…………if you know you need to do it!
Also if your project is close to shrubs, trees, etc……..strongly advise giving them a blast from your leaf blower or a vigorous shake prior to applying any product. Getting as much loose debris out of the plants, saves picking leaves, etc out of your ‘wet’ project.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Cinnabar DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Cinnabar Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

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Cinnabar Antiquing ™Swatch — Antiquing™ Cinnabar

Cinnabar Glow: From Neglected to Respected!

Our customer revived a 17-year-old patio with determination and our vibrant Cinnabar Portico™! A sleek Charcoal Portico™ border adds a touch of class. See this remarkable journey from faded to fabulous!

Neglected patio pavers covered with weeds, moss, and old sand — The starting point: A 17-year-old patio longing for a refresh!

Patio pavers looking refreshed post-power wash, free of moss and dirt — A clean slate: Pavers power-washed and prepped for transformation

Brightened patio pavers showcasing a vibrant Cinnabar Portico with a distinct Charcoal edge — A splash of color: Pavers dazzle with our Cinnabar and a sophisticated Charcoal border

Pavers with grey polymeric sand filled into the joints and a sealed finish — Final touches: Sand-filled joints and a glossy finish seal the deal!

Close-up view of the patio pavers showcasing the rich texture and color of Cinnabar tint and grey polymeric sand. — Up close and personal: Witness the intricate details and vibrant colors of the revamped patio.

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description: This I’m my backyard patio. It is approximately 17 years old and was very neglected by the previous owner and myself. I power washed it a few times and never installed the polymeric sand correctly or sealed it so it never looked good for long. This year I was committed to getting this thing in shape. First I turboed the joints clean, clearing out weeds, old sand and moss. Then I applied an algaecide and detergent to clean the pavers, followed up with a surface cleaner to pressure was the tops of the pavers. Rinsed the area to make sure it was 100% clean, then I let it dry for a day. When it was totally dry, I brushed the charcoal dye onto the perimeter of the pavers to create a boarder. When that was dry, I sprayed 2 full gallons of the cinnamon red onto the rest of the pavers to get a deep rich result. I let that dry overnight and then started sweeping grey polymeric sand into the joints. Once it was perfect I sprayed water onto the area making sure not to flood the joints. Just enough to get it wet. I repeated the water application at least 6 times to make sure the water had absorbed to the bottom of the joint. I got a metal pie and dug up some joints to see how far the water got. Once the sand was completely wet all the way to the bottom I let it dry for an hour. I finished by spraying two coats of high gloss wet look sealer and let it cure for 24 hours. The results are incredible and wasn’t that hard to do. The key is preparation and patience. The first picture is what the pavers looked like before cleaning. The second is after they were cleaned and dried. The third is after they were dyed and the fourth is after the sand was installed and sealed.

Direct Colors Products Used:
Portico™ Trial Kit (Terracotta, Pumpkin & Russet)
1 Gal. Charcoal DIY Antiquing™
2 x 1 Gal. Cinnabar Antiquing™
Other Products Used:Technical next gel urban Grey polymeric sand and Everseal Wetlook sealer

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Portico Cinnabar Concrete Paver Stain — Portico™ Cinnabar

Step Up with Cinnabar: A Walkway Revival!

A stamped concrete walkway transformed with Cinnabar Antiquing™ stain and sealed with EasySeal™ gloss. Simple yet striking.

Front walkway and entrance floor beautifully stained with rich Cinnabar leading to the front door — Entrance Transformation: A welcoming Cinnabar-stained path to the front door

Side pathway enhanced with the deep, warm tones of Cinnabar stain — Side Stroll in Style: Cinnabar brings out the beauty in every step

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Neighborhood Revival: Bringing Pavers Back to Life!

Our customer’s neighborhood had a 33-year-old entrance with pavers that once shone in brick color. With time, these faded and cracked. But, a dedicated group of DIY neighbors chose our Cinnabar stain to breathe life back into this entrance.

Faded and cracked entrance pavers before restoration — Time-worn: Our neighborhood's entrance pavers showing 33 years of wear and tear

Revitalized entrance pavers with a vibrant Cinnabar Portico stain — Restored Radiance: Our entrance transformed with two coats of Cinnabar stain and a protective seal, showcasing the beauty of a neighborhood reborn

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 10 days so far day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1200 sq. ft.
Project Description: 33 years ago our city transportation department paved two roads, that would become our neighborhood. To distinguish our neighborhood, pavers were installed at the entrance. At the time these pavers were brick in color. Fast forward to today- the pavers had cracks, lost their color and had never been sealed. A small group of DIY neighbors patched, stained and sealed one side of the entrance (we only have one way in and out. Waiting on another 3 days of good weather (no rain) to complete our project.

Personal Tips:
Through cleaning makes a difference. Because we had several (30 year old cracks) we put some stain on the cemented repairs before applying a first coat to the pavers. We believe this step helped to minimize the cracks.
With our first coat, we applied the stain using sponges.
We used a sprayer with the second coat, much quicker.
One person sprayed the sealer on the pavers, while another rolled the stain into the pavers.
We had to order an addition bundle- our old pavers absorbed lots of stain.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Portico™ Trial Kit (Milano Red, Crimson & Cinnabar)
2 x 5 Gal. Cinnabar Portico™ Mega Bundle
Other Products Used: We used Cement All to patch the cracks in our pavers.

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Poolside Revival: Cinnabar & Sunset Tan Magic!

Our DIYer rejuvenated a spalled, mismatched pool deck with Cinnabar and Sunset Tan EasyTint™. Through rain delays and old stain challenges, they achieved a stunning, non-slip finish.

Faded and weathered pool deck concrete prior to renovation

Refreshed pool deck with vibrant Cinnabar and Sunset Tan EasyTint™

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 8 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 2000 sq. ft.
Project Description: My pool deck had some spalling because I had not sealed it for years. The original concrete was tinted which was different in the coping area from the rest of the deck area. That was also tinted. About 7 years ago I applied a concrete stain. Some of that stain lingered but I heavily power washed the entire deck. I used cinnabar easytint for the coping, and sunset tan easytint sealer for the rest. I applied 2 coats of the color and 2 coats of sealer. The reason for a second coat of sealer is even after sealing it with the grit from Direct Colors, it was still very slippery. I bought some grit from my local hardware store and used that in the second sealer coating and it came very non slippery. Overall it came out looking a lot better and repels the water. This job took awhile because of the rainy weather and trying to find a stretch of sunny days.

Direct Colors Products Used:
EasyTint™ Satin Trial Kit (Sunset Tan, Khaki & Crimson)
EasyTint™ Satin Trial Kit (Pumpkin, Terracotta & Russet)
EasyTint™ Satin Trial Kit (Cinnabar, Plum & Auburn)
Antiquing™ Trial Kit (Sunset Tan, Khaki & Crimson)
2 x 5 Gal. Sunset Tan EasyTint™ Satin
2 x 1 Gal. Cinnabar EasyTint™ Satin
2 x 16 Oz. OxiGrip™ Non-Slip Sealer Additive
2 x 5 Gal. EasySeal™ Satin Kit

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Cinnabar EasyTint Swatch — EasyTint™ Cinnabar

Light Charcoal outdoor concrete stain before and after photos

Light Charcoal Concrete Projects: Before, During & After Transformations

Explore stunning transformations with Direct Colors’ Light Charcoal concrete colorants. Dive into customer projects, witness the before & after magic, and see in-progress snapshots. Your next inspiration awaits!

by Justin Richardson

Antiquing light charcoal stained concrete diamonds, complemented by moss-inspired garden stepping stones — Stained patio with light charcoal colored concrete diamonds, complemented by moss-like garden stepping stones and subtle squirrel footprints.

Harlequin Patio Makeover with Light Charcoal & Mossy Stepping Stones

Using Direct Colors’ Light Charcoal stain and reclaimed bricks, witness how a harlequin diamond pattern and squirrel footprints combine to create an outdoor masterpiece. Alongside the main patio, discover mossy-like stepping stones set in the garden, offering both utility and charm.

Pre-stained patio with reclaimed bricks and a harlequin diamond pattern unfinished concrete pavers

Fully transformed patio with light charcoal stained concrete diamonds, complemented by moss-inspired garden stepping stones

Unfinished retaining wall and steps leading to the patio extension, prior to staining

Stained retaining wall and steps in Antiquing Light Charcoal outdoor concrete stain leading into the patio extension — Stained retaining wall and steps in Antiquing Light Charcoal leading into the patio extension

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 20 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 750 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We had to build a retaining wall (about 7.5 feet) to level the ground and build a patio as an extension of the yard. We used reclaimed brick off the original house and laid out a harlequin diamond pattern. Then we used 3/8″ plywood strips to form diamond concrete pavers within the brick pattern, allowing for joint sand compound between the bricks and concrete pavers. After waiting a season (winter), we masked off the bricks and retaining wall to stain the pavers and steps with Antiquing light charcoal stain. We used the light charcoal because we wanted to match the firepit stones and give the illusion of slate slabs. When we were laying the concrete diamonds and we had leftover concrete, we poured them into large container saucer dishes to be used as steppingstones within the garden area. The steppingstones were stained with ColorWave ivy stain to look like moss covered mounds. *Side note: when laying the concrete on the contoured steps in the fall, there was a lot of squirrel activity and impossible to keep them off the steps as they dried. We ended up embracing their little footprints as signatures embedded in the project.
Personal Tips:
Watch to make sure your EasySeal is not creating any bubbles. If bubbles occur, allow yourself room to go back and access your area to gently pop them. If you don’t catch them, you can sand them out, but you must be careful not to remove the stain in the process. It is easier to address them when it is wet.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Antiquing™ Stain Trial Kit (Driftwood, Yukon Gold & Light Charcoal)
1 Gal. Light Charcoal DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit (on steps and diamond harlequin pavers)
2 x 1 Gal. Light Charcoal Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit (on steps, diamond and brick pavers)
1 Qt. Ivy ColorWave® Stain (for steppingstones in garden)
Other Products Used:
EP Henry harvest blend retaining wall block, reclaimed bricks, quickrete concrete mix, and beige Gator Nitro joint sand.

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Light Charcoal Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Light Charcoal

Fixing the Splotchy: Ashlar Slate Update

Addressing the issue of poor color contrast and an inconsistent clearcoat on a year-old ashlar slate stamped concrete, this project made use of Light Charcoal Antiquing™ and the EasySeal™ Satin Kit for a more cohesive finish.

Cleaned ashlar slate stamped concrete driveway with visible splotchy clearcoat

Ashlar slate stamped concrete driveway after Light Charcoal Antiquing application

Driveway following the first application of EasySeal Satin — After 1st Seal: The surface gleams with its initial protective coat of EasySeal Satin

Ashlar slate stamped concrete driveway after the second application of EasySeal Satin — Final Look: The driveway with its full protective finish, displaying a uniform sheen after the second EasySeal coat

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 900 sq. ft.
Project Description:

I had one year old ashlar slate stamped concrete that had poor color contrast and very splotchy clearcoat. I thoroughly washed the surface with a pressure washer and then applied Direct Color’s two stage treatment: Light Charcoal Antiquing & EasySeal Satin Kit.

Personal Tips: For the clearcoat, use a sprayer and then back roll just like the directions recommend.
Direct Colors Products Used:
2 x 5 Gal. Light Charcoal Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

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DIY Patio Transformation: From Dull to Dazzling with Direct Colors

Faced with steep professional quotes, one couple in their mid-50s decided to take patio renovation into their own hands. With no prior experience but armed with Direct Colors’ comprehensive resources, they embarked on a DIY journey.

Faded and old concrete patio floor — Before

Stamped concrete patio, beautifully enhanced with a gray concrete stain and sealed for durability, showcasing intricate patterns and the sophisticated hues of the stain

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:

Outdoor patio needed a major make over. We contacted a few professional companies in our area quotes came in around 3,000!!! that made us think perhaps we can do it ourselves! it can’t look any worse than it does now.

After researching online for about a month hubby and I opted to purchase from Direct Colors because of the simple easy to understand instructions, along with the ” how to videos ” available on the website.

I must admit we both were feeling a bit apprehensive at first to take on such a massive project. We are both in our mid 50″s with zero previous experience.

After contacting the wonderful customer support service team at Direct Colors we took the plunge and ordered. The customer service team is professional, knowledgeable and was patient with our questions explaining in layman’s terms our questions.

It’ was comforting to know professional assistance was just a phone call away 3 days later our patio was finished, looks amazingly well done saved literally thousands of dollars and had the feeling of accomplishment.

Thank you Direct Colors!

Personal Tips:
- Pre- preparation is 90% the key to success. A clean, grease free surface is a must!
- Check weather forecast partly cloudy/ no rain in the forecast for 3 days, green flag to begin
- Make sure you have all equipment ( brushes, tarps, rollers, trays, etc.) required gathered in one handy space
- Create a checklist of materials needed prior to starting.
- Read then re-read the directions/ instructions
- Jot down any questions you may have, then contact Direct Colors customer support … the team is fabulous!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Light Charcoal DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Gray Antiquing™ Stain

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From Faded to Fab: Patio Deck Glow-Up

Undertaken by our esteemed customer and DCPro contractor, Toledo Construction Corporation in Oakley, California, this project transformed a worn-out stamped concrete patio deck. With the right products and expertise, a touch of gloss colored sealer revived its beauty. The deck now gleams, showcasing the sheen of EasySeal™ Gloss and the richness of Light Charcoal EasyTint™, reminding us of the importance of a clean foundation for optimal results.

A patio deck showing signs of wear and faded color

Stamped concrete patio deck after application of Light Charcoal EasyTint™ Gloss — After: The patio deck rejuvenated, glowing with the rich shade of Light Charcoal and the sheen of the gloss sealer

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:

I must admit we both were feeling a bit apprehensive at first to take on such a massive project. We are both in our mid 50″s with zero previous experience.

Thank you Direct Colors!

Personal Tips:
- Pre- preparation is 90% the key to success. A clean, grease free surface is a must!
- Check weather forecast partly cloudy/ no rain in the forecast for 3 days, green flag to begin
- Make sure you have all equipment ( brushes, tarps, rollers, trays, etc.) required gathered in one handy space
- Create a checklist of materials needed prior to starting.
- Read then re-read the directions/ instructions
- Jot down any questions you may have, then contact Direct Colors customer support … the team is fabulous!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Light Charcoal DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Gray Antiquing™ Stain

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EasyTint Light Charcoal — EasyTint™ Lt. Charcoal

Explore more creative uses and stunning transformations by visiting our EasyTint™ Project Gallery.

Charcoal Refresh: Circular Patio Makeover

See the transformation of a straightforward circular stamped patio as it gains a fresh, updated look with Antiquing™ Light Charcoal stain and the protective sheen of EasySeal™ satin.

Circular stamped patio pre-staining, with protected edges and a covered brick fire pit at the center — Before: Circular stamped concrete patio with protective covering, awaiting its transformative staining

The stamped concrete patio after applying the Light Charcoal Antiquing™ Stain

Concrete Stain Color Duo

The only thing better than one concrete stain color is two colors of stain! After this faded stamped concrete patio lost all of its original color, this DC customer was looking to bring the color back. Light charcoal concrete stain spruced up the base, while gorgeous auburn livened up the design.

Project Details & Tips

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 770 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We had a front walkway and back yard patio poured about 12 years ago. Both had worn badly and lost all color.
The front walkway we wanted darker, so we decided on charcoal for the color. The walkway is approx. 260 sq. ft.
We power washed, applied one coat of light charcoal antiquing stain, then went over it with dark charcoal for the second coat, followed by two coats of the acrylic satin sealer.
Total labor time was about 8 hours.
For the back patio, it was just as worn as our walkway, but we had put in a small paver walkway this year leading to it and the pavers had a mix of grey and auburn, so we decided to match the pattern.
The patio is about 510 sq. ft. We first power washed, then took a foam brush and stained random sets of blocks with the auburn antiquing stain. When that was complete I sprayed the entire patio in light charcoal, trying to not overspray the auburn blocks. The Auburn only needed 1 coat because we didn’t want it too dark.
The light charcoal we did 2 coats and finished off with two coats of the satin acrylic sealer.
Total labor for the patio was approx. 10 hours.
Personal Tips:
When using a sprayer for the sealer, it’s good to go over with a foam roller, if you are covering stamped concrete.
The sealer will pool in the seams and if there is too much can bubble. Also find a good way to clean out the sprayer, because after the 2nd coat, our sprayers wouldn’t work.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Charcoal DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Light Charcoal DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Auburn DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
Other Products Used:
Two pump sprayers

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Auburn Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Auburn

Stamped Sidewalk & Porch Refresh: Charcoal & Russet Blend

See how a stamped concrete sidewalk and porch slab are revitalized using a combination of Light Charcoal and Russet Antiquing™ stains. With the help of Direct Colors’ trial kit and informative videos, the surfaces got a fresh, updated look.

Unstained, faded stamped concrete sidewalk before restoration

Revitalized stamped concrete sidewalk with Light Charcoal and Russet Antiquing™ stains

Unstained, faded porch slab prior to restoration — Unstained, faded stamped concrete sidewalk before restoration

Restored porch slab stained in a blend of Light Charcoal and Russet Antiquing™ colors

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
The project was to restore stamped concrete sidewalk and a porch slab.
Personal Tips:
Watch the videos on application, very helpful.
Direct Color Products Used
Antiquing™ Stain Trial Kit (Russet, Wheat & Light Charcoal)
1 Gal. Light Charcoal DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Russet Antiquing™ Stain

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Russet Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Russet

Orange No More: Iron Stone Walkway Transformation

An undesired pinkish-orange hue once dominated this home’s stamped concrete walkway. Armed with Direct Colors’ Light Charcoal Satin EasyTint™ and EasySeal™ Sealer, the walkway was rejuvenated with a rich iron stone finish, exceeding all expectations. Curious about the transformation process? Dive deeper into our blog: “How To Change The Color Of Already Stained Concrete With Concrete Stains” for a detailed look.

Faded Residential Concrete Walkway Porch — Before

Stained Residential Walkway with Light Charcoal over Old Pink — After Light Charcoal EasyTint

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

- Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
- Estimate of Square Footage: 268 sq. ft.
- Project Description:
  This project was a color correct for our outside stamped concrete walkway and edging for our driveway. Photos that I included do not do the ugly orange color justice. The photos make it look like a bright terra cotta, but in actuality it was pinkish orange. We inherited this very bright chalky pinkish orange walkway when we purchased the house seven years ago. We’ve lived with the color all of this time, hating it but also being hesitant to dive into attempting to fix it. Finally bit the bullet and decided this was the year to try to improve the color. I ordered 7 color samples, from two companies. Direct Colors won out with their Light Charcoal Satin EasyTint. I loved the richness of the color, and the sample gave me the exact results I was hoping for – it turned the chalky orange to a rich rusty iron color. I ordered more than the recommended amount of tinted sealer and acrylic sealer, as I knew how thirsty my concrete would be. I received my order quickly, and transformed the concrete the following weekend.I cannot recommend these products enough. I was impressed with the ease of application, and even more impressed with the fantastic transformation. The end result was what I had hoped for and so much more. Our walkway now has the rich color of iron stone. It is stunning. Gorgeous. I could go on and on. My husband said the same thing, that the results far surpassed expectations.
- Personal Tips:
  The evening before project day, I edged the sod all around the project, then pressure sprayed the concrete. I was fortunate that the weather cooperated perfectly for me – it was overcast with a high of 72 degrees the first day. On day one I applied two coats of the tinted sealer, using a 1/2″ nap roller. Direct Colors recommends a 3/8″ nap roller at the most, but I bent the rule and went with 1/2″ because my stamped concrete has some pretty deep wells (I was very careful not to get so much product in the deep areas so that there was no puddling). I made sure to keep the co at even, and covered each section completely. I was concerned that with the fast dry time, I might see roller lines. But no, not at all. Despite the fast dry time (tacky within a few minutes), there were absolutely no roller lines. The sealer was fantastic to work with – it is thin, so it will run into cracks and over edges. I used this to my advantage when working the edges, and squeezed sealer over the edges with the roller. I only had to hand paint (using a 2″ paintbrush) a few sections which were deeper than others. But for the most part, I could get away with just using the roller for edges and the bulk of the project. I ordered the 5 gallon bucket for the tinted sealer. I mixed it by shaking and rolling it around on the ground prior to opening it. After I used some of it, I then could shake it easier before each pour. Also, I did not wear any special shoes. The tinted sealer dried completely between coats. It wasn’t completely cured, but it was very tough and I could easily walk on it leaving absolutely no footprints. On day two, again the weather cooperated nicely – it was partly cloudy/partly sunny, and again around 72 degrees. I applied two coats of Solvent Based Acrylic Satin Concrete Sealer. The acrylic sealer also dries very fast, possibly faster than the tinted sealer. But it was easy to apply using the roller and paintbrush. Again I used a 1/2″ nap roller and was careful to watch for puddling. And again I was able to walk on the product between coats, leaving no footprints. For cleanup for both tinted sealer and acrylic sealer, I used Xylene. For 268 square feet, I used approximately 3 gallons of tinted sealer and 2 gallons of acrylic sealer. My concrete was very thirsty, so used more than the recommended amount. I thought the concrete looked nice with only the tinted sealer from the day before, but adding the acrylic sealer not only gave it added protection, but added another layer of richness that took the look to the next level.

Direct Colors Products Used:
EasyTint™ Trial Kit (Light Charcoal, Aztec Brown & Black)
5 Gal. Light Charcoal EasyTint™ Satin
3 x 1 Gal. EasySeal™ Satin
Direct Colors Products Used:
Lawn edger and power sprayer for prep work
Paint roller with extension pole
Paintbrush
Paint tray
Xylene for cleanup

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Indoor Elegance: Unleashing Creativity with Tweed Interior Concrete Stain

Looking to breathe new life into your indoor concrete spaces? You’ve landed on the right page! From basements and living rooms to bathrooms, our DIYers have used Tweed Interior Concrete Stain to transform their spaces into stunning showcases of style and personality.

By Justin Richardson

Basement Bonanza: A Five-Day Tweed Concrete Stain Transformation

Have you ever imagined converting your basement into a cozy living space? That’s exactly what we set out to achieve – a DIY project to turn our bare basement into a living room, bedroom, and bathroom. Our aim? A floor that was not only waterproof and durable, but also full of character and charm. With Direct Colors, we found a budget-friendly solution that exceeded our expectations. Embark with us on this five-day DIY journey as we turned our dreams into reality with the help of Tweed Interior Concrete Stain. Spoiler alert: it was simpler than you’d think!

Before shot of the concrete basement floor with a container of Vibrance Dye Tweed on top — Before photo feat.

Final view of the newly dyed and sealed basement floor, with a container of Tweed Vibrance Dye on top — After photo feat

Customer mechanically scrubbing the concrete floor for thorough cleaning — Cleaning Process: We put in the elbow grease to ensure the floor was spotless before the transformation

Customer spraying CitrusEtch concrete etcher onto the basement floor — Applying CitrusEtch: Our basement floor getting prepped with a concrete etcher

Basement floor after the first coat of Tweed Vibrance Dye has been applied — After First Coat: The basement floor begins to change with the first coat of Tweed Vibrance Dye

The concrete floor after the application of the sealer — After Second Coat: The dye's true character emerges after the second coat

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 650 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We finished our basement ourselves, including a living room, bathroom, and bedroom. We wanted a floor that would be durable and waterproof, as well as something to add character and dimension to the space. Cost was also important to us, as well as ease of installation. When we discovered Direct Colors, we were so excited to see the number of choices and looks we could achieve with a small budget.
We completed the project over 5 days. The first day (cleaning) took the longest, but the rest was super easy to do in an hour or so after work.
Day 1: Clean, clean, clean again!
Day 2: Etch the concrete
Day 3: Dye coat #1
Day 4: Dye coat #2
Day 5: Sealer

Personal Tips:
We rented an industrial dual mop and vacuum to help clean the floors – it was amazing!
My #1 regret is not covering the unfinished concrete floors better when we painted. It took a ton of work to remove the dried paint and primer from the floor in order to prep for the dye.
Absolutely get the test kit – the 3 different dyes helped us narrow down what we wanted. After seeing our favorite in our space, we ended up going in another direction (and love it!!).Check out Direct Colors Instagram page – we spent hours looking at all of the different colors and applications, and it was incredibly helpful.Direct Colors customer service was incredible and so helpful.

Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. Tweed Vibrance™ Dye & AcquaSeal ™ Satin Kit
Other Products Used:
5 Gal. Acetone

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Oakwood Vibrance Dye Swatch — Vibrance™ Tweed

For more creative staining ideas using our Vibrance™ Dye , check out “Vibrance™ Dye: Your Ticket To DIY Magic!“

An eclectic bathroom with a vibrant, acid-stained concrete floor in hues of azure blue and earthy tones, blending a rustic wooden wall finish with a splash of modern color

Awesome DIY Makeovers with EverStain’s English Red

Multipurpose Marvel: Revamping Laundry Room and Bathroom with Acid Stains

This project showcases the transformation of a multipurpose laundry room and bathroom using Azure Blue and English Red EverStain acid stains. The project came to life effortlessly with the guidance of clear instructions and a comprehensive kit.

A 'before' image showing the original condition of the hallway, featuring plain and unadorned concrete flooring — Before the transformation: The unremarkable concrete flooring in the hallway, poised for a vibrant makeover

An 'after' image showing the dramatic transformation of the hallway flooring with deep reddish hues and star-like splatters of bright Azure Blue — After the transformation: The once-plain hallway now shines with a rich English Red base and striking Azure Blue star-like splatters, demonstrating the stunning effect of acid staining

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
multipurpose, laundry, room, and bathroom
Personal Tips:
don’t be afraid, it was so much fun, it looks better than I could’ve imagined. they gave very clear directions, and it really was no harder than mopping the floor.
Direct Colors Products Used:

1 Gal. English Red DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Azure Blue EverStain™
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin

Other Products Used:
are used everything from citrus etch to wax finish, I purchased the kit that included everything from the gloves to the shoes!!

Products Used

Cookhouse Creativity: A Backyard Upgrade with English Red and Azure Blue

This project brought life to a backyard cookhouse with a vibrant acid-stained concrete floor. English Red and Azure Blue EverStain were used to achieve an engaging marbled look. With careful application, patience, and Texas heat, a standout floor came to life. Personal tips include advice on the marbling effect, proper neutralization and sealing, and even how to manage outdoor projects in hot weather. Dive into the complete process in the blog post “Creating Colorful Cookhouse Floors with EverStain Acid Stains“.

CookHouse Concrete Floor — Cured concrete floor (30 days)

CookHouse Concrete Floor Stained Azure Blue, English Red EverStain — After

EverStain acid stained concrete floor — Azure Blue & English Red EverStain on Cookhouse Concrete Floor

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 110 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Building a cookhouse in my back yard. Had fiber reinforced concrete poured and waited 60 days for concrete to cure before acid staining.
Washed concrete with concrete cleaner which contained a mild etcher. Concrete was very clean to start with. Let concrete dry overnight.
I tested the Everstain acid stain on one corner and had excellent reaction. I sprayed on 2 quarts of English Red diluted with water 1:1 for the first coat, waited 4 hours then sprayed on undiluted English Red for the second coat for a marbling affect. Temperatures was in the mid 80’s to low 90’s so drying time was fast and reaction had ceased. Let dry 6 hours then sprayed on a water mix of the neutralizer that came with my kit to neutralize the acid and rinsed thoroughly.
After the base staining was complete, I used a small spray bottle to apply 2/3 Qt of Azure Blue undiluted. I used a piece of cardboard with ripped edges as an edge guide when applying the blue attempting to obtain a vein affect. With remaining 1/3 QT of Azure Blue, I mixed one tablespoon of Miracle Grow powder and obtained a much deeper blue mixture. I then used a small hand sprayer to spritz and gently pour on some of the veining to bring out some deeper blues. I then used the remaining English Red and hit a few spots that were lighter than desired to darken those areas. Let dry 6 hours then sprayed on a water mix of the neutralizer that came with my kit to neutralize the acid and rinsed thoroughly.
I waited 24 hours of drying time to roll on the first coat of Solvent Based Acrylic Satin Concrete Sealer. Then waited until the next day and applied the second coat of sealer. Stayed off of concrete for a few days.
Personal Tips:
Follow directions and do not skip a step!
Time between steps will vary according to heat and humidity.
If you want a marbling affect, use a lighter color for the first coat instead of cutting with water. You will get a better reaction with undiluted acid. This is the only thing I wished I had done different.
Neutralize and wash after acid reaction and drying time has occurred. Make sure all residue is rinsed off before applying sealer and rinse water runs clear. Scrubbing with a soft bristle brush is a must. After drying, test for residue with a white cloth. If a lot of residue is present rinse again.
If rolling on sealer, roll 1st coat of sealer in one direction and the second coat in the other direction for example east – west then north-south to get a more even coverage. I always roll-on sealer to obtain good coverage.
Due to it being hot here in Texas and my project outside, I hung tarps to keep sun from hitting concrete after applying acid so drying would not be hastened and a good reaction would have time to occur. Don’t apply acid to hot concrete. On hot concrete the liquid won’t have time to soak in due to evaporation and will leave a lot of powdery residue which is wasted product.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. English Red DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Qt. Azure Blue EverStain™ Acid Stain
Other Products Used:
Rust-Oleum cleaner & etch … (very mild etching solution)

Products Used

Artistic Backyard Upgrade with Acid Stains

This unique project involved the transformation of a newly-poured 12’x24’ concrete slab, intended for a future backyard screen enclosure. To avoid the typical and mundane appearance of patio pavers seen in many backyards, I opted for the vibrant and artistic approach of acid staining with Direct Colors. The application process followed the tips and tutorials provided by Direct Colors. The addition of “Miracle Grow” blue granules accentuated the ‘lakes’ and ‘river’ of my design, giving it an extra ‘pop’. All products used for this project were from Direct Colors, including Azure Blue, English Red, and Black EverStain with High Gloss sheen. A unique tip was to layout the design with toilet paper strands, which worked excellently! For more details, visit our blog post: “How To Create A Vein Effect On Concrete With Acid Stain Colors“.

Flowing water-color vein concrete veining technique acid stain with Azure Blue acid stain and Miracle-Gro — Azure blue mixed with MiracleGro, english red and black EverStain acid stain application

Beautiful concrete veining technique design on enclosed patio stained with black, english red and azure blue Everstain enhanced with Miracle Gro — Enclosed patio stained with black, english red and azure blue Everstain enhanced with Miracle Gro

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 280 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I started with a freshly poured (ie., 1 month old) 12’x24’ concrete slab for a future backyard screen enclosure. All of my neighbors have boring patio pavers for their base … I wanted something unique and creative … hence Direct Colors Acid Staining!
Personal Tips:
Basically I watched all the videos that Direct Colors makes available along with 2 tips given by Samantha and Heather (sales reps at DC) which were to apply “Miracle Grow” blue granules to give “pop” to my lakes and river and laying my design out with strands of toilet paper … all went extremely well!

Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. English Red DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Azure Blue EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Black EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
16 Oz. Non Slip Concrete Sealer Additive

Products Used

Patio Perfection: A Concrete Facelift with Malayan Buff, Desert Amber, and English Red

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 225 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My patio has some 35 year old redwood furniture that I decided to refinish which I did. Using Cabot’s wood finish and I sanded it down. After finishing noticing the gray concrete did not help appearance and I had bought some gel acid stain from direct colors pre-pandemic and never used them. Ended up getting Everstain Acid stain we 3 gallons of acid stain with neutralizer and sealant. I used some shoes with spikes and applied as directed by web site using a sprayer. Following advice of outlining the sections with the lighter color then using the Malayan buff filling in between the desert amber, then streaked it with the antique red to add dimension and almost create a look like grain in wood. I let it dry overnight to get maximum paint absorption then got it damp with light water and brushed with large broom. I then applied the sealant in 2 coats. The first coat was rolled on and the second was sprayed on. The most difficult part of project was moving the furniture off and back on patio. The prep work has to be done with power washing and taping up the sides of the house.
Personal Tips:
If you are going to spray use wide tape to block off things that you don’t want sprayed. I used 1 inch, probably should use wider if the wind catches it you got it on your house.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Desert Amber EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. English Red EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit

Products Used

Faux Flagstone Porch Transformation

This project involved the conversion of a 3-year-old porch into a vibrant faux flagstone masterpiece. After pouring a new concrete slab, the floor was hand-troweled to achieve a smooth finish. Using EverStain™ Acid Stain in Coffee Brown, English Red, and Malayan Buff, a faux flagstone design was hand-painted. The finishing touch was provided by the EasySeal top coats. This artistic endeavor resulted in a stunning and unique porch floor, bringing a personalized touch to the outdoor space.

Image showing a porch with sections taped off, preparing for the application of the faux flagstone design using acid stains — Preparing the Porch: Taped off areas for the faux flagstone design

Photo capturing the porch floor after the application of different colored acid stains, showing the beginning of the faux flagstone transformation — Mid-Process Magic: Post application of varied acid stains

Image displaying the completed faux flagstone porch, with vibrant colors and unique design, fully transformed after the staining process — Artful Outcome: Completed faux flagstone porch

"Close-up image of the completed faux flagstone porch, showcasing the detailed color variations and patterns achieved with acid staining — Close-Up Charm: Detailed view of the finished faux flagstone porch

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 20 days (weather) day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 300 sq. ft. sq. ft.
Project Description:
Porch built ~3 years back and could never decide between lumber flooring or $$ pouring slab until I got referred to a concrete worker with a reasonable estimate who assured me of a ‘slick’ finished floor (I know, when wet, etc. but I wanted a smooth finish. He hand troweled the final pass) . Once the floor was poured internet searches for ideas led to this page…
https://directcolors.com/diy/concrete-patio-ideas/
The faux flagstone got me. Never the artistic type ever, I had to try this. Little over a month cure time, taped it off…Coffee Brown walk way, English Red border, Malayan Buff and mixtures in the ‘stones’, all EverStain™ Acid Stain, Easy Seal top coats. To say I’m well pleased with the outcome would be a major understatement.
ps. One quart container of sealer came damaged and an email to Customer Service had a replacement on my doorstep in a couple days! Direct Colors is the go to for this type of project.
Personal Tips:
Some colors (on my floor English Red) will overpower everything else losing the contrasting tones I desired for this project….note that I used a spray bottle, and yep it bled over everywhere even though I thought I was going light. Were I to do this again, I’d use a brush and LIGHTLY keep it in the borders even if multiple passes were necessary. This is only if you’re wanting to see a dramatic color difference at borders.
I attempted to clean up the border bleed over with a Scotch Brite pad/ ammonia solution only to discover a remarkable lightening of color …touched up with stain again to find just enough mineral content left to return much of the contrast I desired. Patience with a project of this nature pays off!
Spike shoes are mandatory!

Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. English Red DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™
16 Oz. Non Slip Concrete Sealer Additive

Products Used

DIY Architect Studio Transformation with Acid Staining

An architect revamped a decrepit detached garage into a captivating workspace by acid-staining a new concrete slab. After a 30-day curing period under plastic film and finishing the room renovation, the floor was prepared and stained using Direct Colors’ products. The process revealed that lighter initial acid stain applications allow for better color control.

Picture of an old garage with an old concrete floor

Applying the acid-stain to the garage floor

The floor after neutralizing the acid-stain

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I’m an Architect and wanted to convert my detached garage into my work/studio space. The old concrete floor was in very poor condition so I knew I was going to need a new floor slab and I wanted to make the new floor a feature of the new studio space by acid-staining the new slab. I had seen some very nice acid-stained floors in some of my projects and I had assumed I would have to hire a contractor to do the work, but after reading the information on the Direct Colors website, I decided to do the staining work myself.
I had the old slab removed and replaced with new concrete. I did not put a sealer on the new slab but covered it with plastic film for 30 days to let it cure. I then did the other renovation work on the old garage space such as installing new wiring, furring, insulation, and plywood on the walls. After the plywood was finished with a clear sealer, I began the work on the floor.
I cleaned the floor with DC Cleaner & Degreaser as recommended and tried a few samples in a corner. I then spoke with a DC rep who was very helpful with some tips on how to work with two different stain colors for the desired effect and ordered all the materials I would need from DC. Ordering the DIY Kits gave me a better price than ordering individual products.
Personal Tips:
I would go lighter on the first spray application of acid stains as it is possible to get a good idea about the final colors in less than an hour. More spray applications can darken the color if desired, but you can’t get the colors lighter.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. English Red DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Malayan Buff EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
Other Products Used:
Plastid film to cure new slab and to protect walls during application of acid stain

Products Used

English Red & Coffee Brown Studio Refresh

This project used English Red and Coffee Brown EverStain acid stains in a one-bedroom studio. The simple use of these two colors made the room look better and more comfortable.

Photo showing a simple, bare concrete floor in a one-bedroom studio before staining — Studio room prior to acid stain application

Photo of the same studio room after application of English Red and Coffee Brown EverStain acid stains, showing a warm and inviting change in the room's appearance — Studio room after English Red and Coffee Brown EverStain acid stains application

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Black Acid Stain Concrete Projects

Explore our gallery of black acid-stained concrete. While labeled “black,” it often appears dark brown due to acid and concrete reactions. Seeking a true black? Consider our other black colorants.

By Justin Richardson

Garage to Apartment Makeover

See how a garage turned into a modern apartment, thanks to a sleek black acid stained concrete floor. This transformation brought style and personality to the space, making it a cozy and inviting home.

Plain garage interior before EverStain black acid stain — The garage's plain interior before the transformation.

Apartment with EverStain black acid stained concrete floor — The finished project: a stylish apartment with a mottled black acid stained floor

Ditching the Carpet for Black Acid Stain Concrete

If you’re considering tackling a concrete staining project, be sure to read about this homeowner’s experience using black acid stain from Direct Colors.

It all started with the decision to rip up the carpets in the front room and hallway, revealing a floor covered in mess left behind by the contractors who built the house.

After cleaning and grinding concrete floor — After cleaning and grinding carpet residue from concrete floor

After a week of scrubbing and using an angle grinder to remove the stubborn lines around the walls, the floor was ready for staining.

The homeowner applied the black acid stain in overlapping circles, using about 1.5 gallons in total.

After letting the stain turn a milky, clouded color, the floor was flooded and scrubbed to remove any residue.

The homeowner then waited for the floor to dry completely before starting the sealing process, applying two coats of sealer in opposite directions for the best coverage.

developing-everstain-black-acid-stain-concrete-floor-carpet-removal

After letting the sealer fully cure, the plastic was stripped off to reveal a beautiful, finished floor.

neautralized-everstain-black-acid-stained-concrete-floor-carpet-removal

EverStain black acid stained concrete floor after carpet removal

The homeowner’s tips? Make sure to prep well and follow the instructions closely, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the Direct Colors customer service team for help throughout the process.

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Please be aware that each photo in this gallery showcases projects accomplished with our Black EverStain™ Acid Stain and is provided by actual customers, serving as a source of inspiration. However, since EverStain™ is semi-transparent, the final appearance of your project will be influenced by the initial color and condition of your concrete surface, and thus, your final results might vary. For the best results, we strongly recommend performing a small test on your specific surface before applying the stain to the entire project to ensure the final look aligns with your expectations.

Mechanical Room Transformation

Watch our customer’s amazing transformation of their mechanical room using black EverStain™ acid stain. Coming up next, see how Coffee Brown adds its charm to the rest of the house.

The renovated mechanical room with a black acid-stained floor exhibiting brown hues, sealed with a satin finish — Subtle Sophistication: A mechanical room, transformed with a black acid stain revealing hints of brown, radiates with a refined allure

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 60 sq. ft.
Project Description:
First room finished is our mechanical room (for hvac air handler, water heater, water softener, and well pressure tank). We finished this room in black acid stain with satin solvent sealer. The balance of the house will be in coffee brown and will be next.
Personal Tips:
Only challenge we experienced was with the sealer application. Sealer was too thick to spray properly from the garden sprayer so we used a roller for this room. We’re going to purchaser a low pressure sprayer for the house portion.
Direct Colors Products Used:
EverStain™ Acid Stain Trial Kit (Black, Coffee Brown & Malayan Buff)
1 Gal. Black DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. ProWax™ Polish: Satin
Patch-Rx™ Concrete Patching Compound: Base Gray: 2.5 Pound

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Carpet Begone! Black Acid Stain Concrete Flooring in the Man Cave

Man Cave Stained Concrete Floors Before and After Photos

If you’re looking to upgrade your basement flooring, consider following in the footsteps of this customer and using black acid stain from Direct Colors.

After removing the existing carpet and preparing the concrete surface, they applied the stain using a pump sprayer and a circular motion, following up with a light scrubbing of the stain.

After allowing the acid to etch for eight hours, they neutralized the surface and allowed it to dry overnight.

Next, they applied a coat of acrylic sealer with a roller, waiting 24 hours before adding a second coat. Finally, they finished off the project by waxing the floor three times.

Polished black acid stained concrete floor

While this customer had a successful project overall, they did recommend using a higher quality concrete patching compound that is closer in color and will take the stain better.

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From Flood-Prone to Fabulous: A Black Acid Stain Concrete Basement Makeover

If you’re looking to give your basement floor a fresh start, consider following in the footsteps of this customer and using EverStain™ Acid Stain in black.

The key to a successful project, according to this customer, is proper prep work. They recommend taking the time to thoroughly clean and prepare the surface, as the parts of the floor that turned out the best were the ones that received the most attention to detail.

Despite taking a few days longer than expected, the end result was worth it and the customer is already planning to use Direct Colors for their next project.

It’s also important to be flexible and go with the flow, as imperfections can add character and make the project your own.

In addition to the EverStain™ Black Stain and Seal Kit, this customer used Satin ProWax Polish™ to give their floor a polished finish.

Polished black acid stained concrete basement floor

They also utilized a floor adhesive remover called Klean Strip to tackle stubborn stains that the degreaser couldn’t remove.

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The Mottled Black Acid Staining Technique: Achieving a Beautiful, Random Pattern on Concrete Surfaces

The mottled black acid staining technique is a popular way to add a unique, modern touch to concrete surfaces. It involves applying the stain in a random, mottled pattern, creating a beautiful, natural-looking finish.

Mottled black acid stained concrete floor

This technique is easy to do and can be achieved with just a few simple tools, making it a great option for DIYers looking to transform their floors, countertops, or other concrete surfaces.

Cracked Patio Transformation: From Eyesore to Elegant!

Turned a problematic patio crack into a delightful faux flagstone design using Black Acid Stain. A simple sprayer and careful taping led to a stunning outcome. Say goodbye to unsightly cracks and hello to stylish flagstone!

A cracked patio surface with a cement repair visible across it before black everstain acid stain — Initial state: A prominent crack, even after cement repairs

The transformed patio featuring the faux flagstone design, furnished with outdoor chairs and tables — Patio Perfection: From cracked concrete to chic outdoor lounge space.

Patio floor marked with masking tape to outline faux flagstone design — Laying the groundwork: Taping the patio in a faux flagstone design

The taped concrete patio floor immediately after being sprayed with Black EverStain acid stain. — Application in Progress: Freshly sprayed with Black EverStain

The patio surface showing a deepened color, 6 hours after black EverStain acid stain application — Patience Pays Off: 6 hours in, and the stain reveals its true shade

Patio surface post black EverStain acid stain neutralization, wash, and sealing — A gleaming patio surface post acid stain neutralization, wash, and sealing.

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My patio had a crack right across it. I tried repairing it by filling it. Then by cementing over it. No matter what it looked ugly. I saw the faux flagstone idea on your web site. Taped the design. Used black acid stain. Looks better!
Personal Tips:
Using sprayer is very easy. Make sure that you tape all around. It gets everywhere!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Black DIY EverStain™ & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
Other Products Used:
None. Water to rinse. Sprayer. Masking tape.

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Patio Pizzazz: A Touch of Black Magic!

Enhanced a stamped and black antiqued patio by introducing select tiles with a splash of Black Acid Stain. A subtle touch that adds depth and intrigue to the design.

A black antiqued stamped concrete patio without border detailing or sealer — Before the Upgrade: The stamped concrete patio

Stamped concrete patio with distinct tiles accentuated by the added Black EverStain Acid Stain — Subtle Transformation: A touch of Black Acid Stain on select tiles brings a delightful contrast

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 1 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 50 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Added color to a stamped and antiqued patio.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Qt. Black EverStain™ acid stain
Other Products Used:
Super clear sealer

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Retaining Wall Revival: From Blotchy to Bold

Our once-blotched retaining wall gets a facelift! After pressure washing, I played with sample blocks to perfect the color. Settled on a bold black stain, sealed it for longevity, and now? A naturally varied, eye-catching wall that proudly stands beside our brick home.

A blotchy buff-colored retaining wall with visible mold/mildew marks and red clay stains — The Original State: A once-pristine retaining wall marred by time and elements

A rejuvenated retaining wall, uniformly stained in black, showcasing a fresh and cohesive appearance — A Remarkable Revival: The wall, now donning a bold black shade, stands as a testament to transformation

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1000 sq. ft.
Project Description:
When our home was built in 2014, a retaining wall was installed in the front of the house using buff colored retaining wall blocks. As time progressed, these blocks became blotchy with mold/mildew and also stained with red clay from the soil behind the wall seeping through. It looked pretty bad. I started by pressure washing the wall. I bought several buff colored retaining wall blocks from Home Depot (about $3 each) and ordered a trial kit from Direct Colors. I prepare two sample blocks- one with half black and half coffee, curing for 4 hours. The other block I used to test the difference in color using the black stain, applying 4 stripe at one hour intervals so that at the end, I had a stripe at one hour of curing, 2 hours, three hours and 4 hours. I used the sample blocks to check for color compatibility with the brick exterior of our home. I selected black stain at 1.5 hours for the final job. I did one more test, staining one block in the actual wall just to make sure that tha color there would not stray too far from the color on the test blocks. That was a success, so I proceeded to stain the entire wall using a pump sprayer, the kind used for deck stain. I neutralzed at one hour using the same sprayer. I let the entire job dry for 2 days, then applied the solvent based sealer again with a plastic pump sprayer. I had to work fast with the sealer because it starter gumming up the sprayer. But I did finish and rather than try to clean up the sprayer, I just threw it away, It was pretty inexpensive at about $15 and I would have easily spent that on a can of solvent to try to clean it up. In the end, I found that individual blocks reacted in different ways apparently due to variable in the contents of the concrete in each block. I did anticipate thias and just accepted that the wall would not likely have a perfectly uniform color. This in my view makes the wall look more natural.
Personal Tips:
1. Do get the trial kit and test the stain on the actual surfaces which you will be staining.
2. Test the stain colors at different curing times to see what the final colors could be. Then you can choose the right curing time for your project.
3. Use the solvent based sealer since it will have a longer life. You may have to sacrifice a pump sprayer but it is worth it.
4. For a textured surface wall like this, where the absorption rate is likely to be higher than smooth concrete, I recommend ordering about 25% more product that the coverage guidelines on the label would dictate. This proved to be a good rule of thumb on my project.
5. For a retaining wall, don’t forget to estimate for the course of capstones on top of the wall. It’s easy to miss that.
Direct Colors Products Used:
3 x 1 Gal. Black EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

Other Products Used:
Super clear sealer

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Industrial Chic: A Black and Coffee Brown Acid Stained Concrete Floor

Get the industrial look you crave with this stunning black and coffee brown EverStain™ acid stained concrete floor.

By diluting the acid stain at different strengths, you can achieve a layered, multi-tonal finish that adds depth and character to your space. Perfect for a residential setting, this flooring option is durable and low-maintenance.

developing black and coffee brown acid stains — Developing acid stains

Black and Coffee Brown Acid Stained Floor — After staining with diluted coffee brown and full strength black and coffee brown EverStain acid stains

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Blending Ages: A Patio’s Dual-Toned Dance

On a quaint round patio, old meets new as 25-year-old concrete harmoniously blends with its 6-month-old counterpart, thanks to the magic of Coffee Brown and Black EverStain™. With a central fire pit casting cozy vibes, this patio is a testament to timeless transformations. Pro-tip: Sun’s out? Work swiftly, and don’t forget those spikes!

A round patio showcasing the contrast between the newer, fresh concrete and the adjacent aged, weathered concrete — Past Meets Present: The visible age gap between the 6-month and 25-year-old concrete sections

The patio, post-staining, with a harmonized blend of Coffee Brown and Black Everstain, diminishing the distinction between the old and new concrete — A Harmonious Hues Merge: The age distinction fades, replaced by a uniform blend of warm Coffee Brown and deep Black EverStain

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 250 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Sun dries the stain out fast
Use the spikes
Personal Tips:
Small patio with 6 month old add on concrete and 25 year old concrete.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Antiquing™ Stain Trial Kit (Black, Eagle Gray & Charcoal)
EverStain™ Acid Stain Trial Kit (Black, Coffee Brown & Seagrass)
1 Gal. Black DIY EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Black EverStain™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Coffee Brown EverStain™
Other Products Used:
None. Water to rinse. Sprayer. Masking tape.

View Products Used

Log Cabin Floor Makeover: 7 Days to a Stunning Acid Stained Finish

I recently completed a stunning flooring project in my new construction log cabin and I couldn’t be happier with the results! The kitchen and dining room area is about 800 sq. ft. and it took me just 7 days to finish.

New construction lo cabin concrete floor

Before I began, I made sure to clean the slab thoroughly. It’s about 10 years old, but with a little elbow grease it was ready for the transformation. I then purchased a test kit of three colors I was interested in using: Malayan Buff, Seagrass, and Black. I tested a small area under the island to see how the colors would look together.

before-everstain-acid-stain-malayan-seagrass-log-cabin-interior-residential-floor-spiked-shoes — Remember to wear spiked shoes

To apply the stain, I put on my fashionable spiked shoes and grabbed some sprayers. I started with the Malayan Buff and then followed with the Seagrass Green, adding in a little bit of Black here and there. I applied the colors wet on wet so they would mottle together and create a beautiful, random pattern.

I did a second coat over the first, trying to keep the colors in the same areas as before. I figured that since I was going for a random pattern, it wouldn’t matter if I made any mistakes. It was actually a lot of fun!

After the stain had dried for a couple of days, I mixed together some baking soda and water (1-2 tablespoons per gallon) and used it to neutralize the floor.

Random patterns of seagrass and very little black acid stain

I walked around with my spiked shoes and dumped gallons of the mixture all over the floor, letting it sit for a bit before wet-vacuuming it all up with plastic bags on my feet. I then rinsed the floor with plain water three more times, vacuuming up the water each time.

Sealed acid stained concrete floor — After AcquaSeal gloss application

Once the floor was dry (I waited a couple more days to be sure), I applied two coats of EasySeal™ Gloss using a sprayer and back rolling with a dry paint roller with a long handle right after.

The paint roller made it much easier to get an even coat and the results were fantastic! The floor came out beautifully and I can’t wait to do the same thing in the living room area, where I plan on adding a little bit of Cola color to the mix.

Here are a few personal tips I learned along the way:

Don’t be afraid to use lots of stain. I actually wished I had used more on the first coat, especially since I really liked how the Seagrass was coming out. So I went crazy with it on the second coat and I’m glad I did.
Make sure to rinse with lots of water after neutralizing. I found that at least three rinses was key to getting a great seal when the floor was dry.
Make sure to buy good quality rollers that won’t shed.

Overall, I had a great experience using Direct Colors products and I’m looking forward to using them again on the rest of my cabin.

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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.

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.

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.

Photo of a clean and prepared concrete floor, ready for the application of acid stain to achieve a stunning transformation. — Cleaning concrete surface

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.

Photo of a concrete floor displaying the subtle Azure Blue base color after applying and allowing the lighter acid stain to activate. — The concrete floor begins its transformation with the application of the lighter Azure Blue acid stain base color, setting the stage for a stunning finish.

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.

Photo of a concrete floor showcasing the striking effect of the Black acid stain veining technique applied as an accent color over the Azure Blue base. — The concrete floor comes to life as the Black acid stain veining technique adds depth and contrast to the Azure Blue base color, creating a unique and eye-catching design.

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.

Sealing Acid Stained Commercial Floor — EasySeal application

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.

Black, Azure Blue Acid Stained Commercial Concrete Floor — Azure Blue & Black EverStain on commercial concrete floor

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!

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Veined Kitchen Floor: Coffee Brown & Black Stain

See how a customer used Coffee Brown and Black acid stain to create beautiful veins on their kitchen concrete floor. These photos reveal the impressive makeover that added warmth and charm to the space.

Black acid stain veining technique application

Coffee brown EverStain acid stain application over black acid stain veins

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Learn Concrete Veining Techniques

Learn Acid Stain Layering Techniques

Black Concrete Acid Stained Indoor Basketball Court — Indoor Basketball court stained with Black Acid Stain and sealed with Water-Based, Satin, Acrylic Sealer

NOTE: Each stain color has a different activation time to fully color the concrete. Read Acid Stain Activation Times before starting your project

Charcoal Dye Concrete Staining Ideas

Discover Charcoal Vibrance Dye projects and uncover your potential with Direct Colors premium products, DIY guides & how to content. Browse today, begin tomorrow

Chill Zone, Courtesy Of Concrete Dye

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

View Products Used

Industrial Chic Concrete Floor

View Products Used

Condo Makeover

View Products Used

Unorthodox Project

vibrance-dye-stained-charcoal-stormy-gray-white-concrete-floors — Charcoal, stormy gray and white Vibrance dye

vibrance-dye-stained-charcoal-stormy-gray-white-concrete-floor — Charcoal, stormy gray and white Vibrance dye

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Info:
- Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
- Estimate of Square Footage: 1600 sq. ft.
- Project Description:
  Headache!!! I had an extremely unlevel floor. I had to grind down some areas 1 inch (about 400 sqft) and had to raise 300sqft 1 inch to get things overall with 1/2″. Then I had to pour 180 bags of the floor leveler and of course I was 16 bags short. This meant I was left with a cold joint for the final finish which I tried to accentuate and create a vein out of. Then I had to grind the surface to a 200 grit and blend the cold joint. Finally it was time to stain and stormy gray, white, and charcoal created one beautiful stained floor. This was a bit of an unorthodox project but I’m happy with it.I have more pictures also.I also plan to add a couple coats of direct colors floor wax when it arrives. I think that’ll really blend things out. I’ll know soon…
- Personal Tips:
  If possible to test your stain application and top coating method exactly as you plan to before hand, do it. My project turned out great from a stain aspect but the epoxy primer and urethane was only ok and I could have made that better but it’s alright for a first timer.Also, with the vibrance dye, don’t be dumb like me and step in it right after you spray it. I didn’t enjoy working those prints out.Finally, I may have applied too much stain but I found when applying my finish some dye would come up especially when brushing the edges. If possible, roll the edges when cutting in.
- Direct Colors Products Used:
  Stormy gray, white, and charcoal
Other Products Used:
VSEAL epoxy primer and urethane (3015 and 3321) industra-coat.

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Garage Makeover

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 400 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Basement Stormy Gray application.
Personal Tips:
I would suggest waiting the complete 6 hours for dye to cure. It’s better to be safe, and let it completely cure. Also, the stormy gray will come out a little darker at first. You will need to spray some in a bucket at first to get that out. Otherwise, it will look like a charcoal color.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye
Charcoal Gray Vibrance Dye
White Gray Vibrance Dye
Water-Based Acrylic Satin Sealer
Other Products Used:
3 gallon Acetone sprayer, Acetone, and a brush.

View Products Used

Move It or Lose It

Gray Tinted Satin Acrylic Sealer and Charcoal Concrete Dye — Charcoal Vibrance Dye and Gray EasyTint Commercial Concrete Floor

Quick Affordable Gray Concrete Flooring — Charcoal Vibrance Dye and Gray EasyTint Commercial Concrete Floor

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Kiss the Frog

The finished patio, featuring a vibrant blend of Khaki, Goldenrod, and Charcoal dyes. — The finished patio, featuring a vibrant blend of Khaki, Goldenrod, and Charcoal Vibrance dyes

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 225 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I was basically tired of looking at my patio regular concrete it would appear dirty. I stumble upon your website and I liked several of the products, so I decided to give it a try. I wanted to keep the colors close to my home colors. I love the outcome.
Personal Tips:
Just do it and have fun you can’t go wrong!
Direct Colors Products Used:
Khaki Vibrance Dye
Goldenrod Vibrance Dye
Charcoal Vibrance Dye
5 Gal. Solvent Based Acrylic Satin Concrete Sealer and Paver Sealer
3 Gal. Acetone Dye Sprayer

View Products Used

Khaki Vibrance Dye Swatch — Vibrance™ Khaki

Goldenrod Vibrance Dye Swatch — Vibrance™ Goldenrod

Scored Concrete Design

Charcoal & Aztec Brown Scored Concrete Floor

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Vibrance Dye Aztec Brown — Vibrance™ Aztec Brown

Wall Stencil Design

Charcoal & White Stenciled Concrete Shower Wall

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Grayscale Greatness: Unleashing the Chic Side of Gray Concrete Stain for Your Outdoor Spaces

Who said gray was boring? It’s time to kick ‘blah’ to the curb and redefine your outdoor spaces with the untapped magic of gray concrete stain! Pool decks, patios, porches – you name it, we’ve got it covered in gorgeous shades of gray.

by Justin Richardson

Fresh Farmhouse Fashion: A Broom-Finished Patio with a Sophisticated Gray Stain

Ever imagined a new construction farmhouse patio donning a modern gray robe? We did, and the result is stunning!

Original state of a concrete covered patio before the application of Silver Gray Antiquing stain, showing the initial, untreated surface

Process of applying gray concrete stain on a covered patio — Process of applying Silver Gray Antiquing stain on a concrete covered patio, transforming the space with a new sophisticated color

Image displaying the concrete covered patio post-application of Silver Gray Antiquing stain, showcasing the dramatic transformation and enhanced aesthetic of the surface. — Concrete covered patio post-application of Silver Gray Antiquing stain, showcasing the dramatic transformation and enhanced aesthetic of the surface

Image showcasing the revitalized concrete covered patio with Silver Gray Antiquing stain, now adorned with outdoor furniture, highlighting the transformed space ready for enjoyment. — Revitalized concrete covered patio with Silver Gray Antiquing stain, now adorned with outdoor furniture, highlighting the transformed space ready for enjoyment

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 380 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Antiquing stain on a broom finish concrete covered patio on my new construction farmhouse.
Personal Tips:
I sprayed the antiquing stain with a pump sprayer and rolled two coats of sealer with a wide roller.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Silver Gray DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Silver Gray Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

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Silver Gray Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Silver Gray

Square by Square: Crafting a Slate Look-Alike Patio with Silver Gray Magic

Get ready to step into a world where hand-poured concrete squares can mimic the beauty of slate. That’s right! We embarked on an adventure to create a patio with 36″ hand-poured squares, each one stamped to perfection to look just like slate. The secret ingredient? Antiquing™ Silver Gray from Direct Colors. Our tip to you: Keep the YouTube tutorial handy and follow along. So, put on your DIY hat and join us as we create magic, one square at a time!

Image showcasing the raw, untouched state of a patio made of 36-inch hand-poured squares, each one stamped to mimic slate, before the application of silver gray concrete stain — Blank Canvas: The untouched beauty of our hand-poured, slate-stamped squares before their transformation with Silver Gray Antiquing stain

Mid-Transformation Marvel: Capturing the process of infusing life into our 36-inch hand-poured, slate-stamped squares using a Silver Gray Antiquing stain applied with a trusty pump sprayer

Image depicting the process of sealing the freshly stained patio squares using a roller, a crucial step in enhancing the gray concrete stain's longevity and vibrancy — Sealing the Deal: The crucial step of rolling on the sealer, locking in the luscious Silver Gray Antiquing stain, and ensuring our patio squares' lasting beauty

Close-up of 36-inch hand-poured, slate-stamped squares using a Silver Gray Antiquing stain and satin EasySeal

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 550 sq. ft.
Project Description:
individual 36″ hand poured squares stamped to look like slate
Personal Tips:
follow the youtube directions
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Silver Gray DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
2 x 1 Gal. Silver Gray Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
Other Products Used:
Rubber stamp and edge mold

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The DIY Patio Makeover: From Drab to Fab with Gray Concrete Stains

Stark contrast between a stained and sealed concrete patio section with a gray Antiquing stain and satin finish, and the adjacent untreated section, which retains a dull and unrefined appearance

Did you think you needed a professional and a small fortune to make your outdoor patio shine? Think again! Follow us on our adventure, where we, a couple in our mid-50s with zero previous experience, dared to defy the odds. With some online research, how-to videos, and guidance from the wonderful customer support team at Direct Colors, we took on the challenge of transforming our outdated patio. The result? An amazing, professionally-finished patio, and thousands of dollars saved! Plus, we’ve got some hard-earned tips for you. Remember, pre-preparation is crucial, the weather is your friend, and the customer support team is your guardian angel. So, are you ready to roll up your sleeves and join the DIY revolution?

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 200 sq. ft.
Project Description:

I must admit we both were feeling a bit apprehensive at first to take on such a massive project. We are both in our mid 50″s with zero previous experience.

Thank you Direct Colors!

Personal Tips:
Pre- preparation is 90% the key to success. A clean, grease free surface is a must!
Check weather forecast partly cloudy/ no rain in the forecast for 3 days, green flag to begin
Make sure you have all equipment ( brushes, tarps, rollers, trays, etc.) required gathered in one handy space

Create a checklist of materials needed prior to starting.
Read then re-read the directions/ instructions

Jot down any questions you may have, then contact Direct Colors customer support … the team is fabulous!

Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Gray Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Light Charcoal Antiquing™ Stain

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Fired Up Facelift: Elevating a Natural Stone Firepit with a DIY Gray Makeover

What happens when your natural stone firepit cries out for a fresh look, but contractor estimates leave you feeling chilly? You stoke your DIY spirit, that’s what! Welcome to our firepit revamp adventure, where we went from drab to fab with a little help from Direct Colors. After some good ol’ scrubbing, we hand-painted each stone to sleek perfection, finishing it off with a satin sealant for that ‘wow’ factor. Spoiler: The end result was hot! So, check the weather, gather your tools, and get ready to breathe new life into your firepit! If we can do it, you can too!

An aerial view of a spacious patio deck featuring a firepit area with chairs, a round outdoor table area, and a paver walkway stained with light charcoal concrete. The patio deck floor is made of natural stones in various sizes, stained in Tweed, Charcoal, and Silver Gray concrete stains, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. — Create a cozy and inviting outdoor space with a custom-stained patio deck and paver walkway. The combination of natural stones and concrete stains in Tweed, Charcoal, and Silver Gray creates a beautiful and relaxing ambiance, perfect for entertaining or unwinding after a long day.

staining natural stones individually using sponges and Antiquing stain — Staining natural stones individually using sponges and Antiquing stain

Stained natural stone patio with gray concrete stain — Natural stones stained individually using sponges and Antiquing stain, emphasizing the attention to detail and the transformation of each stone's appearance

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 600 sq. ft.
Project Description:

My natural stone firepit needed an upgrade. After contacting several local contractors and receiving estimates averaging around 4,000. I decided to tackle this project on my own. Luckily, I found Direct Colors online. I appreciated the helpful tutorials, other customers tips/ experience and ideas along with Direct Colors knowledgeable and friendly staff. My firepit went from tired/ drab to a major focal point with the wow factor I wanted.

After cleaning and preparing the natural stones by using a stone cleaner/ degreaser, garden hose, and scrub brush. I allowed the firepit and stones to dry. I then hand painted each rock individually … 3 coats … drying into coats before applying the next. I finished with 3 coats of satin finish sealant. I am most pleased with the end result.

Personal Tips:
Have all materials and equipment necessary on hand prior to starting.
Take your time. If I can get professional results like this … anyone can!
Observe the weather forecast before beginning project. partly cloudy and no rain for the next 3 days … is a green flag to begin!

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Charcoal Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Charcoal

Tweed Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Tweed

BBQ Bash Makeover: Turning a Patio Dream into a DIY Reality with Gray Stain

What if we told you that you could save thousands on your dream BBQ outdoor dining area? Buckle up for our DIY adventure, where we said ‘No, thank you’ to a hefty $4K quote and said ‘Yes, we got this!’ Instead, we opted for pavers and Direct Colors’ versatile stains and sealants. With a mixture of silver gray, tweed, and charcoal gray, we hand-stained each paver and sealed it to perfection. The final cost? Less than a grand! The satisfaction of a job well done? Priceless! Plus, we spent the saved cash on a fun getaway to the White Mountains. So, grab your sponge brush, remember to shake that stain, and get ready to dive into the world of DIY mastery with us!

Image displaying the initial state of a slate-stamped concrete patio before the application of Antiquing stain colors, showcasing the raw, untreated surface — Initial state of a slate-stamped concrete patio before the application of Antiquing stain colors

Image revealing the slate-like stamped concrete patio after application and drying of three distinct Antiquing stain colors, emphasizing the transformed, vibrant appearance of the surface — Slate-like stamped concrete patio after application of Silver Gray, Light Charcoal, and Tweed Antiquing stains

Image showing a slate-stamped concrete patio, freshly stained with three different Antiquing stain colors, currently drying and awaiting the sealing process to lock in the vibrant hues — Slate-stamped concrete patio, freshly stained with three different Antiquing stain colors, currently drying and awaiting the sealing process to lock in the vibrant hues

Image illustrating the application of EasySeal with a foam roller over the Antiquing stain on a concrete surface, a process that enhances and seals in the vibrant stain colors for a more striking appearance — Application of EasySeal with a foam roller over the Antiquing stain on a concrete surface, a process that enhances and seals in the vibrant stain colors for a more striking appearance

EasySeal drying highlighting the intricate texture and rich combination of Silver Gray, Light Charcoal, and Tweed Antiquing stains on the slate-stamped concrete patio, revealing the stunning transformation and depth of colors

Close-up image highlighting the intricate textures and the harmonious blend of Silver Gray, Light Charcoal, and Tweed Antiquing stains on the slate-stamped concrete patio — Close-up highlighting the intricate textures and the harmonious blend of Silver Gray, Light Charcoal, and Tweed Antiquing stains on the slate-stamped concrete patio

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1000 sq. ft.
Project Description:

BBQ outdoor dining area. We wanted to add on an additional patio for outdoor dining.

We contacted a few local companies and was quoted 4K for labor and materials!! After recovering from sticker shock, we decided ” we got this”..
We opted on pavers & Direct Colors stain / sealant.

The entire cost doing it ourselves .. less than 1k. After allowing the time in between installation of pavers and staining,/ sealant. We purchased Antiquing silver gray, tweed and charcoal gray.

I stained each paver individually using sponge brushes. I applied 2 coats allowing dry time between. I waited 24 hours before applying the satin sealant ( also allowing dry time between coats).

We couldn’t be more satisfied with the end results!! We took the money we saved and spent a getaway weekend in the White Mountains of New Hampshire .. win win!.

Thank you Direct Colors for creating a professional, high quality product with expert results that 1st timer DIY’s can easily master.

Personal Tips:
Read the instructions ( simple, easy to understand)
Pre prep .. we can’t empathize this enough ! It’s 90% the key to expert results.
Shake the stain .. Shake the stain .. did I mention not to forget to Shake the stain during application??
Check the weather forecast prior to beginning .. 3 days of partly cloudy/ no rain is ideal!
Contact Direct Colors customer care team if you have any questions .. they are friendly professional and knowledgeable

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Poolside Paradise: Stamping, Staining, and Sealing a Concrete Deck into Gray Elegance

Picture this: You’re lounging by your pool, sipping a cool drink, and your gaze falls on your stunning stamped concrete pool deck. Sounds like a dream? Well, we made it our reality! We took our pool deck from plain to phenomenal with Antiquing™ Stain and two coats of EasySeal™. Now, our poolside hangouts are more stylish than ever. So, jump in and let’s make your concrete pool deck the talk of the neighborhood!

After photo of a stylishly transformed stamped concrete pool deck, stained in elegant gray and sealed with EasySeal — Concrete Chic: The finished pool deck, radiating elegance with its stamped design, sophisticated Eagle gray Antiquing™ Stain, and durable EasySeal™ finish.

transformed stamped concrete pool deck, now sporting a stylish stain and sealed finish — The elegant transformation of the once-drab stamped concrete pool deck, now adorned with a sophisticated stain and sealed for lasting beauty

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Antiquing Eagle Gray — Antiquing™ Eagle Gray

The Gray Whirlpool Revamp: From Blotchy Blues to Sleek Satin Swirls

Wave goodbye to the blotchy, stained pool deck that even a pressure wash couldn’t fix! Step into our world where we took the “Plain Jane” swirl concrete finish pool deck and transformed it into a sleek, satiny dream using EasyTint™ Gray. So, jump on this DIY wave with us, and remember – a minimum of two coats is your golden rule for achieving that perfect shade of satin sophistication!

Before photo of a blotchy and stained swirled-finish pool deck — The blotchy and stained swirled finish pool deck before the transformation

Enhance your pool's design with a gray EasyTint satin finish on a swirl-textured concrete pool deck, perfect for a stylish and long-lasting summer surface. — Swirled-finish pool deck, transformed and unified in color with two coats of Gray EasyTint™, offers a stylish and restored outdoor space

Before photo of a blotchy, stained swirled finish concrete pool deck — Before

After photo of a swirled-finish pool deck stained with Gray EasyTint™ — The swirled finish pool deck after the makeover with Gray EasyTint™. Applying a minimum of two coats achieved a uniform color and revitalized look

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 900 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Pool deck was blotchy and stained . Even pressure washing left it blotchy
Personal Tips:
Definitely minimum 2 coats to achieve color
Direct Colors Products Used:
5 Gal. Gray EasyTint™ Satin

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Patio Power-Up: Extending and Enhancing with EasyTint™ Gray

Ever wished your patio could stretch out just a bit more? Join us on our DIY journey where we not only extended our patio but also gave it a stunning EasyTint™ Gray makeover. This transformation tale comes with a twist: our love story with the cone tip over the fan tip. Yes, it’s spray and roll all the way! So, gear up and let’s get those patios party-ready!

Extended patio after the initial application of EasyTint Gray stain, revealing the emerging transformation of the previously untreated concrete surface

Extended patio, now fully stained with EasyTint Gray, demonstrating a uniformly colored and enhanced surface

Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 2 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 700 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Patio extension. Sealed using EasyTint Gray. 4 gallons.
Personal Tips:
I used a fan tip at first with a pump sprayer and I didn’t like it. I ended up using a cone tip and it worked alot better! Spray then roll.
Direct Colors Products Used:
4 x 1 Gal. Gray EasyTint™ Satin

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Drive-On Glam: Turning a Tired Concrete Driveway into a Gray-tinted Showstopper

Who says your driveway can’t be as stylish as your ride? Buckle up as we take you on a journey where we turned our dull, damaged driveway into a smooth, EasyTint Gray-tinted runway. Spoiler: EasyTint may not hide the battle scars, but it sure knows how to make them look good! So, rev up your DIY engines and let’s give your driveway the makeover it deserves. A stylish arrival is just a project away!

Driveway Stained with Silver Gray EasyTint Tinted Sealer

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Silver Gray EasyTint Swatch — EasyTint™ Silver Gray

Patio Prestige: From Plain to Perfect with Antiquing Stain

Fancy giving your concrete patio a quick promotion? We did, and the results are simply ‘broom’-tastic! This makeover story stars our new best friend, Antiquing Stain, who helped us turn a simple patio into a modern marvel. Spoiler alert: It’s easier than you think to elevate your outdoor space! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s turn your patio into the hot gossip of your backyard barbecues!

Gray stained broom finish concrete patio — Silver Gray Antiquing stain on a broom finish concrete patio

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First Impressions Makeover: A Stamped Concrete Driveway and Porch Revival

Let’s face it, your driveway deserves to be more than just a parking spot. It’s time for the front of your house to make a statement! Join us as we transform a tired, textured concrete driveway and porch into a chic, eye-catching entrance with a touch of Gray Antiquing stain. Spoiler: this facelift not only enhances the look but also shields against harsh weather! So, let’s roll out the gray carpet and make your home’s first impression a showstopper.

Gray Antiquing and EasyTint on Concrete Driveway

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Gray Antiquing Concrete Stain Color Swatch — Gray Textured Concrete Overlay Stained with Gray Antiquing Stain and Sealed with Solvent-Based, Satin Acrylic Sealer

Driveway Design

Design your concrete driveway the way YOU want! This DC customer used a lighter gray and medium gray concrete dye to make lines on their driveway.

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Light Slate Vibrance Dye Color Swatch — Vibrance™ Light Slate

Step Up Your Style

What a nice, clean way of integrating these two concrete dye colors! These concrete steps look awesome.

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Sunny Makeover: Breathing New Life into a Sunroom Floor with Stormy Gray Magic

Ever thought a sunroom could use a touch of storm? Well, we did! Welcome to our sunroom revival, where we took a stained and uneven concrete floor and turned it into a sleek, modern industrial haven. Our secret weapon? The mighty Vibrance Stormy Gray concrete dye. Let’s just say, the results were nothing short of sunshine on a cloudy day! So, pull up a chair and join us on this stunning transformation journey. Who knew gray could be this vibrant?

Sunroom flooring renovation using Stormy Gray Vibrance concrete dye — The dull, gray concrete floor of this sunroom was brought to life with Stormy Gray Vibrance dye.

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Direct Colors Shifting Sand Concrete Stain

Shifting Sand Brown Acid Stain Photo Gallery

Shifting sand is a luscious brown color that brings simple sophistication to any concrete surface.

You can pair this medium brown concrete stain with a neutral color, or even a more earthy brown. Looking for a smidge of vivid color? Consider a blue or green acid stain combo!

Garage Floor Upgrade

Whoa. This default gray garage floor transformed into an acid stain dream! The shifting sand brown stain and coffee brown stain add depth and visual focus to the space.

Acid Stained Garage Floor — Malayan Buff, Shifting Sand & Coffee Brown EverStain acid stained garage floor

Acid stained concrete garage floor — Malayan Buff, Shifting Sand and Coffee Brown EverStain

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Two Stall Boat Storage Garage

Our DC customer was intimidated by acid stain, even having been in construction for 28 years! They were surprised by how much less technical this boat garage storage project ended up being. We agree that this acid stained garage floor completes the look of the space. What a big, beautiful backdrop for that boat!

Concrete Garage Floor Boat Storage — Before

Shifting Sand & Malayan Buff EverStain acid stained garage turned boat storage

Cleaning and Removing Acid Stain Residue — Cleaning and removing acid stain residue

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 0.00900 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Two stall garage for boat storage with an office and reloading loft above the office. I’ve been in and around construction for 28 years, but have never been involved with an acid stain project. To be honest, I was a bit intimidated tackling this project by myself; however it was easier than installing the wood paneling and metal siding. Not as technical with measurements and fitting. The floor just finishes the space.
Personal Tips:
Watch as many YouTube videos as possible.Spend as much time as needed to ensure your prep work is complete. I sanded the entire floor area with 40 grit sandpaper for the mechanical etching process to ensure a uniform finish.Wash and clean floor at least 3 times to remove all dust from the etching process.I used carpet drying fans to aid in the drying process after the initial wash, neutralization wash and during the sealing process. Fans during the sealing process helped ventilate the room since I used an acrylic sealer.Use a high quality respiratory if you use an acrylic sealer.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Mayalayan buff and shifting sands
Acrylic sealer

Other Products Used:
Hitachi palm sander
Wet/dry vac
Floor squeegee
Carpet fans
Spray bottle
Garden sprayer

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Residential Floor Wax — Concrete Floor Wax - Satin

A dry azure blue and shifting sand stained concrete garage floor with a boat parked on top, showcasing the practicality and aesthetic appeal of the transformation. — With the floor dry and a boat comfortably parked, this transformed garage seamlessly combines function and style. The concrete stain, resembling a tranquil ocean, provides a striking backdrop for the vessel

Azure Blue and Shifting Sand EverStain Acid Stained Garage Concrete Floor

A wet azure blue stained concrete garage floor, fresh from sealer application, with hints of shifting sand accents creating an oceanic ambiance — The garage floor, freshly sealed and stained with Azure Blue and Shifting Sand acid stains, awaits drying. The vibrant colors imitate a serene ocean, transforming this boat storage area into a nautical masterpiece

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Tattoo Shop Floor Renovation

‘Til Death Tattoo in Springfield, Missouri understands the value of thorough prep work! After removing the carpet in this commercial space, this brand new tattoo shop got crackin’ on their first-ever DIY project.

It wasn’t easy, but by the end, they were pretty proud of their artistry skills – and the results! We love how they used two acid stain colors to create a marbled look with vintage vibes. The colored concrete floor brings so much charm and personality to the space!

Shifting Sand EverStain Heart on Concrete Floor — Shifting Sand EverStain Heart

Sealed and Waxed Malayan Buff and Shifting Sand EverStain

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 14 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1000 sq. ft.
Project Description:
This was our first DIY project; and all I have to say is be ready for your prep work! Coming into this we had no idea the amount of labor we were about to put into this project, but nonetheless we are extremely proud of what we created.This is the floor in the tattoo shop we’re opening (‘Til Death Tattoo, in Springfield, Missouri.) Originally the previous owners had carpet in the space. After ripping up the carpet, it appeared to have multiple layers of glue and other adhesives.We literally tried everything to remove this… acetone, adhesive remover pad on a buffer, goo gone… in the end a hand held razorblade scraper from harbor freight with lots of blades and elbow grease was the best removal. We used a diamabrush etching pad on a buffer we rented to open up the pores.After all that was completed, we moved to cleaning. Lots of plain hot water wetmopping, followed up by a good couple rounds of TSP mopping, and then more mopping until the bucket came back clear when we rung out the mop.After all this, it was smooth sailing. Simply follow the guidelines of DirectColors for application. You really can’t go wrong with the stain, this is where you can let your artistry shine. We set our darker tone the day before, and then followed with our light tone early next day and filled in patchy spots with a second coat of light tone a few hours later.Neutralized and cleaned, followed the sealing instructions, and let set for a few days before we came back and laid down the wax.Honestly, wish we had picked commercial high gloss when we did it, but the two gallons of residential got us about 8 coats in total and it turned out just fine!
Personal Tips:
Clean, clean, clean. And then clean again. Your work beforehand and your finishing after your project is sealed makes more of a difference than anything else you will do in the process.

Direct Colors Products Used:
Malaysian Bluff, Shifting Sands, Acid Neutralizer, Sealer, and Residential floor wax. All water based acrylic.

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A Pool House with Personality

Isn’t this slight pop of azure blue concrete stain lovely? Although this pool house floor has a blend of three colors, it’s the nice bit of blue acid stain that really stands out.

Azure Blue, Malayan Buff & Shifting Sand EverStain and Light Charcoal EasyTint on Concrete Patio

Azure Blue, Malayan Buff & Shifting Sand EverStain and Light Charcoal EasyTint on Concrete Patio

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

- Project Completed In: 14 day(s)
- Estimate of Square Footage: 568 sq. ft.
- Project Description:
  New construction pool house.
- Personal Tips:
  Go for it!! I was so nervous but it’s really a fun project once you get started. The videos on the website are very informative.
- Direct Colors Products Used:
  Azure Blue, Malayan Buff, Shifting Sand, Light Charcoal EasyTint with regular sealer.
Other Products Used:
Miracle grow and a touch of glitter

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Revamped Garage Floor

It’s amazing how a stained concrete floor can take your space to the finish line in an instant. This garage definitely looks more complete with the addition of coffee concrete stain and shifting sand stain.

Shifting Sand & Coffee Brown EverStain on Concrete Floor

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Completed In: 6 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I cleaned the surface well. Then I used the etch to open up the pores on the floor. Then I cleaned the floor with a mop twice. I then sprayed an even coat of shifting sands acid stain over the whole floor with a pump sprayer. I used approximately a gallon and a half of the shifting sands acid. I highlighted a few areas with 1 quart of coffee brown acid stain in a spray bottle mixed 1:1 with water. I then cleaned the floor 4-5 times with a scrub brush, water/baking soda mix, and a wet vac. Finally I applied two coats of sealer with a nap roller on a pole.
Personal Tips:
Get the floor as clean as possible after each step!When I rolled on the sealer it appeared like polka dots and I was scared I did something wrong but after giving the floor 2-4 hours to dry the dots dried to clear and resulted in what you see here.

Direct Colors Products Used:

Shifting Sands Acid Stain
Coffee Brown Acid Stain

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Pretty Barndominium Floor

Check out the cozy rustic look of this barndominium! The acid stained concrete floors produce a nice warmth with that earthy color combo.

Malayan Buff, Shifting Sand Stained Pole Barn Floor Acid Stained Pole Barn Floor — Malayan Buff, Shifting Sand acid stained pole barn floor

everstain-acid-stain-barndominium-concrete-floors-shifting-sand-malayan-buff (1)

Coffee Brown Acid Stained Pole Barn Countertop

Coffee Brown Acid Stained Pole Barn Bathroom Vanity

Coffee Brown Acid Stained Pole Barn Bathroom Countertop

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Beautiful Basement Floor

This DC customer had a very short window of time to get their basement floor stained – but it ended up working out! After taking the carpet out, they patched a crack in the floor and were pleasantly surprised how the acid stain added to the beauty of the crack.

Shifting Sand EverStain on Concrete Basement Floor

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 540 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We moved into a house that had a partially finished basement. The carpet was awful ! We had no idea what kind of shape the concrete was in underneath that carpet but it had to come out. We were on a tight budget so after looking into options very early on in the home purchasing process, I decided I would acid stain the floor! We did have an unexpected crack in the floor that we were able to patch but I think that it just adds to the beauty of the floor. We had a very short window of time to get the floor stained – a 10 day window on the closing of our home until we had to be out and moved into the new home. It all worked out! It took 7 days to complete and the staining was the most fun and the easiest part.
Personal Tips:
The videos on the Direct Colors website taught me how to acid stain and gave me the confidence that I could do it! The customer service team also took my calls and helped me so much! Know going into this that the prep work takes the very longest! One call to direct colors helped me a ton – the man I spoke with advised me to use a carpet cleaner to rinse the concrete floor for the rinsing phases. What a lifesaver that was! I am really happy with how the floor turned out! It is very easy to maintain and I receive a lot fo compliments on it – I then proudly say “I did that!!!”
Direct Colors Products Used:
We used the acid stain for interior floors kit – it had all that we needed to do the project!! I even ordered a scrub brush for the cleaning process and that worked out so well. The kit was called the EverStain complete Diy stain and seal kit in Shifting Sand. We also purchased the wax , the matte finish, and that is a wonderful product!

Other Products Used:
We did end up renting a concrete buffer that helped get the concrete to the correct porosity level. We also used a concrete patching product, Quickcrete

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Porch with Perfect Imperfections

The great thing about acid stain is that it enhances the imperfections in your concrete surface. This porch certainly was not perfect – yet the brown and amber acid stain somehow complement those imperfections!

Desert Amber & Shifting Sand EverStain Acid Stained Covered Concrete Patio

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Pooch Heaven

Easy to clean and pet friendly acid stained concrete floors

Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff and Shifting Sand EverStain acid stained concrete front porch

Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff and Shifting Sand EverStain acid stained concrete patio

Watercolor Look Patio

Many people fall in love with acid stain due to its notorious mottled look. On the contrary, this DC customer wanted more of a watercolor look for their concrete patio. Although they admittedly didn’t have time to order sample kits or hone their watercolor technique, we think this patio came out great!

Black. Seagrass & Shifting Sand EverStain on Concrete Patio

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 651 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We wanted to add a little color to a raw exterior patio which was poured in two different pours, between 6 & 8 years ago. The patio only looked good for a day or two after each cleaning. After research, we decided Acid staining was our best option and decided on Direct Colors to get the product.
Personal Tips:
Try to give yourself enough time to order color samples, we did not as we were on a tight timeline with a new hot tub coming and the black was much browner than we expected.I wish we would have had a chance to hone the technique on test pieces, we wanted more of a watercolor blend but did too much overlapping of the colors and the blues didn’t show through as much as we thought they would. We were really worried about getting a marble effect and not what we were looking for.Having a second person really helps with all steps of the processWe made some DIY spike shoes with 1/2″ tek screws into the bottom of old running shoes, these seemed to work much better than the spike shoes on offer as they fit our feet better and were easier to walk in.We had a pump sprayer for each color we were using so we could easily blend colors.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Acid Stain in 3 colors and sealer purchased in kits, order number 114542

Other Products Used:
Power washer
DIY and borrowed pair of spike shoes
Pump Sprayer x3
Scrub brushes
Squeegee
masking tape and plastic to protect the house
PPE – gloves & safety glasses
1/2″ Nap Roller

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Cola and Shifting Sand EverStains on Hand Troweled Concrete Patio — Cola and Shifting Sand EverStains on Concrete Patio

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Coverting Patios to Indoor Living Space — Shifting Sand EverStain on Concrete Sunroom Floor

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Staining Basement Floors with Colored Sealers

Staining Basement With Concrete Dye

Gray Stain and Sealer Combination for Indoor Projects

AcquaTint Colored Sealer - 1 gal — AcquaTint™ Colored Sealer

Vibrance Concrete Dye — Vibrance™ Concrete Dye

Acrylic Concrete Sealer Water Satin 1 gal — Satin, Water-Based Acrylic Sealer

Acrylic Sealer - Water Gloss 1 gal — Glossy, Water-Based Acrylic Sealer

Before and After Photos of Charcoal and Gray Interior Concrete Staining

Forget what you heard about gray being drab and dull! This neutral color is perfect for bringing balance to any concrete surface you choose. Discover all that you can do with our gray concrete stain customer photos.

It’s Like a Brand New Basement

Gray Stained Concrete Basement Floor — White, Stormy Gray and Charcoal Vibrance Dye

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

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Industrial Look Kitchen Floor

This concrete floor was done with a mottled technique in four different shades of gray concrete dye. The whole industrial look comes together with the help of those lights and stools!

Stormy Gray, White, Charcoal & Light Slate Concrete Dye Stained Kitchen Floor — Stormy Gray, White, Charcoal & Light Slate Vibrance Dye Stained Kitchen Floor

Stormy Gray, White, Charcoal & Light Slate Vibrance Dye Stained Kitchen Floor — Mottled technique used with Stormy Gray, White, Charcoal, Light Slate Vibrance concrete dye on concrete kitchen floor

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Simple Sunroom Makeover With Concrete Dye

Say ‘goodbye’ to that dull concrete floor like our DC customer did! With the help of Vibrance concrete dye, they transformed their sunroom into a stylish space. Learn how to do the same to your space with our how to guide!

Sunroom concrete floor transformed with Stormy Gray Vibrance acetone dye stain — The Stormy Gray Vibrance acetone dye stain gave this sunroom's concrete floor a stylish and modern update

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

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Vibrance Dye Complete Makeover

Stormy Gray and Charcoal Vibrant Dye Sealed with Water-Based Acrylic Sealer and Floor Wax — Stormy Gray and Charcoal Vibrance Dye, AcquaSeal and ProWax Polish

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

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Ready to Wax

This DIYer found themselves dealing with a very unlevel concrete floor that required much preparation. Once that was taken care of, they used two colors of gray concrete dye to create this stained masterpiece. Now, all that’s left to do is finish it up with some concrete floor wax!

concrete dye stained leveled floor — Charcoal and Stormy Gray Vibrance Dye

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

- Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
- Estimate of Square Footage: 1600 sq. ft.
- Project Description:
  Headache!!! I had an extremely unlevel floor. I had to grind down some areas 1 inch (about 400 sqft) and had to raise 300sqft 1 inch to get things overall with 1/2″. Then I had to pour 180 bags of the floor leveler and of course I was 16 bags short. This meant I was left with a cold joint for the final finish which I tried to accentuate and create a vein out of. Then I had to grind the surface to a 200 grit and blend the cold joint. Finally it was time to stain and stormy gray, white, and charcoal created one beautiful stained floor. This was a bit of an unorthodox project but I’m happy with it.I have more pictures also.I also plan to add a couple coats of direct colors floor wax when it arrives. I think that’ll really blend things out. I’ll know soon…
- Personal Tips:
  If possible to test your stain application and top coating method exactly as you plan to before hand, do it. My project turned out great from a stain aspect but the epoxy primer and urethane was only ok and I could have made that better but it’s alright for a first timer.Also, with the vibrance dye, don’t be dumb like me and step in it right after you spray it. I didn’t enjoy working those prints out.Finally, I may have applied too much stain but I found when applying my finish some dye would come up especially when brushing the edges. If possible, roll the edges when cutting in.
- Direct Colors Products Used:
  Stormy gray, white, and charcoal
- Other Products Used:
  VSEAL epoxy primer and urethane (3015 and 3321) industra-coat.

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Clean & Modern

Have you ever seen a basement look so fresh and modern? Our customer used AcquaTint™ water based sealer to protect their basement floor while adding a little bit of color. We can’t get over how elegant and professional it looks!

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

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Graffiti Art

Our DC customer is a professional artist, but this was their first time dealing with concrete stain and a large-scale project. When their stain sprayer wasn’t working quite as intended, they improvised – creating random graffiti-like splashes of charcoal. What a unique look!

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Completed In: 6 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1800 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I have an unfinished 1800sf basement. I wanted to keep the integrity and durability of the concrete floors.
The floors had been grinded before any work had started.
First was cleaning up drywall dust, mud and paint off floors. Some was scraped off and then washed with diluted pine sol and water and finally just with plain water. This took about 6 hours everytime, constantly dumping the dirtied water.
I am a professional artist but this was my first time with concrete stain and such a huge scale.
The sprayer I used spit and dripped out the paint so I had to change my original plan to random graffiti-like splashes of the charcoal color. Spraying the initial design took 4-5 hours and 2/3 of the 5 gal charcoal. I let that dry 24 hours before starting 2nd coat of lighter gray.
I used a 3/8″ 9″ roller to apply lighter gray over splashed charcoal. Because I was creating a mottled, random look, it was impossible to roll on in one direction as is suggested. It created lines I didn’t like. Rather, I went heavy in some areas and left the lightness of one coat in other areas, always careful to cover bare concrete. The lighter gray helped to soften the contrast of the lighter areas and the charcoal. This effect took about 2 of the 5 gal. container. Because of the sheer size of the floor, it took 6-7 hours.
After waiting 24 hours, I began 1st coat of wax with a 9″ Shurcoat paint pad. It was very had to tell where I covered because of the mottled nature of the colors. After 4-5 hrs. I applied a 2nd coat of wax, noticing some areas had a higher sheen to them. I wasn’t sure why this was happening but it helped create depth on the floor.
The next morning, I applied a 3rd coat of wax, a bit heavier to achieve the desired high gloss look. That was left to cure a full 24 hrs. I used 4 of the 5 gals. to do all 3 coats of wax. Each coat took about 4-5 hours to complete.

Personal Tips:
Aquatint settles very quickly and must be constantly stirred.
Enjoy the way the stain works when using more than one color.
Make sure you have very good lighting to apply both stain and wax.

Direct Colors Products Used:

- 5 gal Aquatint Charcoal
- 5 gal Aquatint Gray
- 5 gal high gloss wax

Other Products Used:

- 3/8″- 9″ roller
- 9″ Shurcoat paint pad -3, one for each coat of wax
- 2 gal Chapin premier sprayer

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Accentuating Concrete Swirls

There’s nothing like completing a tough DIY project yourself! This customer felt that adding sealer to their concrete was a “rewarding project”. They knew they wanted a concrete stain that was transparent yet durable, and AcquaTint was the product that ticked all the boxes.

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We are finally all moved in and getting around to showing you all our results! We knew we loved and wanted to accentuate the power trial swirls and marbling effect. We spent hours and many test products under where our cabinets would be, but look no further direct colors has the perfect product. We ended up choosing the tinted sealer. We knew we wanted a very transparent but durable stain.
Essentially all we did was thoroughly clean the dust and construction grime off the floors with degreasing soap and let that dry a few hours. We then came back and cleaned our floors THREE more times with the direct colors degreaser, two of which were rinses. This alone took a full day for 1500sqft. Once this dried we were ready to stain. We tried many methods (sprayers, sponges, rags) and the best we came across for a super transparent look was a 18” floor squeegee! It worked awesome. Like any paint project it is all in the prep work and the actual staining process was over before we knew it, maybe 1.5hrs. After this we let it dry for a day and covered in plastic to finish construction. Once we were ready to move in we washed it again, then immediately waxed the entire floor(last picture) as you can see the floor is almost a living feature of the house as it changes color and hue based on lighting effects. Overall this was a rewarding project that we are happy to have done ourselves! Have fun!

Personal Tips:
Clean clean clean, have all supplies organized and clean up (acetone, in our case) ready. Have an extra applicator (spray gun squeegee etc.) on hand in case yours fails/breaks

Direct Colors Products Used:

- 1 qt ProClean Degreaser
- 1 gal Aquatint Charcoal
- 1 gal Satin Acrylic Sealer
- 1 gal Satin Floor Wax

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Coffee N’ Crafts

The method used to apply tinted concrete sealer depends on the look you want to achieve. For Coffee N’ Crafts, a marbled, varied color was the mission for Brad Carlisle from William B. Carlisle Design. The best part about this renovation? They performed a complete space upgrade without having to rip up the concrete floor!

Coffee N' Crafts concrete with pigment tables

Coffee N' Crafts Owned by Steiger & Kelsey Hart

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

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Silver Simplicity

This commercial space really looks spiffy after applying some silver colored concrete sealer. And hey, if you like what you see here, check out our handy how to guide for applying tinted sealer!

Cleaned Concrete Floor — Ready to begin staining

Silver Gray Stained Concrete Commercial Floor — After

Silver Gray Stained Concrete Floor — After Silver Gray AcquaTint Stained Concrete Floor

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

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Tinted Sealer for the Win

This commercial space used the same Silver Gray AcquaTint stain over a colored concrete floor. Check out our handy how to guide for applying tinted sealer!

After two coats of Silver Gray AcquaTint and ProWax Polish

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Keep the Grandkids Out When You DIY!

Our Direct Colors customer offered some valuable advice when working on your tinted sealer project: make sure you cover walls and doors! And keep grandkids out! Yes, these things are always important to remember! They used AquaTint and solvent based sealer for the concrete floors in their new home.

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1600 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We are building a barn house. It is semi finished. The walls are painted shiplap.
Personal Tips:
I was so afraid of messing up with the sprayer that my first coat was way too light. I applied 2 more coats and it looked great. I believe the aquatint is very forgiving when sprayed on. I followed up with 2 coats of the solvent based satin sealer. Make sure you can open up plenty of windows because this stuff STINKS! Even though my concrete is not perfect I love my floors.
Make sure you cover walls and doors! And keep grandkids out!

Direct Colors Tip: When sealing indoors, we recommend our water-based AcquaSeal sealers. They are low VOC, so you will not stink up your house.

Direct Colors Products Used:
AcquaTint in light charcoal. Acrylic sealer solvent based in satin.

Other Products Used:
No additional products except lots of elbow grease!

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Fun with Texture

While tinted concrete sealer won’t cover imperfections, it allows you to give your concrete floor character! That’s what this customer did. We think that the tinted sealer complements their textured floor so well.

AcquaTint Stained Concrete Floor — One Coat of AcquaTint on Concrete Floor

Two Coats of AcquaTint on Concrete Floor

Charcoal stained concrete basement floor — Charcoal AcquaTint

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 250 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We’re redoing our main bathroom and want stained textured concrete floors. The area includes the hallway, closets, bathroom area and water closet.We started by laying the concrete and then sanding. Then we used charcoal aquatint, applied using a roller. We followed the instructions completely and the application went very well.
Personal Tips:
The color deposits at the bottom of the bottle so the first few coats are somewhat lighter. We left about 10% tiny in the first bottle and mixed it in when starting the second bottle. It helped create a more even second application.
Direct Colors Products Used:
Aquatint charcoal and wax sealer.

Other Products Used:
Direct colors applied onto Henry feather finish concrete mix.

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No More Carpets!

After this DC customer’s basement flooded for the second time, they decided no more carpet! While coloring their concrete basement floor with tinted sealer was a challenging project to complete, they felt that the right products made it doable.

For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 21 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1000 sq. ft.
Project Description:
After my basement flooded for the second time I decided no more carpet. This was a challenging project but with the right products it can be done.
1.) first I rented a concrete grinder for the day and etched the floor. My basement was sealed when my house was built so it was a necessary step.
2.) I mopped the floor two times to remove any dust or residue.
3.) I applied two coats of AcquaTint™ Silver Gray Water Based Colored Sealer, waiting 24 hours in between each coat. I rolled the stain on with roller purchased through direct colors. I would strongly recommend that because it is a high quality roller.
4.) I used a dollar store sponge mop to apply three layers of direct colors Residential Concrete Floor Wax, waiting three hours in between each layer.
5.) I waited 24 hours before placing furniture on the floor.
Personal Tips:
Be careful when rolling on stain not to overlap because it can dry with lines.
Direct Colors Products Used: 5 Gal. Satin AcquaTint™ Silver Gray Water Based Colored Sealer
Concrete Floor Wax
Other Products Used:

Concrete grinder

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Light Charcoal Tinted Concrete Sealer — Light Charcoal Colored Concrete Sealer

Revamping A Basement Into A Comfortable Living Area

We were determined to transform our 100-year-old basement into a livable space, but we were discouraged by the high cost of hiring professionals to stain the concrete floor. So, we decided to take on the project ourselves with the help of Direct Colors.

The first step was to remove all the old stains, spray paint, and overspray from the floor. We rented a concrete grinder and used a handheld angle grinder with a surface grinding tool to get into the hard-to-reach areas. We also patched a few small hairline cracks with a basic cement mix from the hardware store.

Next, we cleaned up all the dust and mopped the floor three times – once with soapy water and twice with clean water. Once the floor was dry, we taped off the walls with plastic and sprayed a coat of solvent-based satin sealer. We waited about 12 hours for the sealer to dry before applying two coats of White Vibrance Dye, with the recommended drying time between each coat. We followed the same process with Stormy Grey Vibrance Dye and then added some dimension to the floor with Charcoal Grey Vibrance Dye. After the final coat of dye dried, we applied two coats of solvent-based satin sealer, waiting 12 hours between each coat.

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We were thrilled with the final result and couldn’t have done it without the guidance and products from Direct Colors. Our biggest issue was with sprayer malfunctions, but don’t let that deter you! With a little prep work and some patience, you can achieve beautiful, professional-looking results on your own. Some of our personal tips include testing your sprayer before starting, not skimping on prep work, and having a bucket and rag on hand to fix any drips or clogs. We also recommend waiting about an hour and a half for the dye to be ready before spraying and making sure to follow the recommended drying times.

Check out more detailed information about this concrete dye project.

Staining Concrete with Water-Based Tinted Sealer

If you’re looking to add a pop of color to your concrete flooring, water-based tinted sealer is a great option. Not only does it provide a beautiful finish, but it’s also easy to apply and maintain.

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For more detailed information about this project, check out this link.

Unfinished Basement Gets a Mottled, Graffiti-Inspired Makeover with Aquatint Charcoal and Gray

In this project, the customer transformed an unfinished 1800 sq ft basement floor using Aquatint Charcoal and Gray. The floors had previously been grinded and the customer spent 6 days on the project, including cleaning up drywall dust, mud, and paint from the surface. The customer used a sprayer to apply the initial design, which took 4-5 hours and used 2/3 of the 5 gallon container of charcoal. After letting the initial coat dry for 24 hours, the customer used a roller to apply a lighter gray color over the splashed charcoal, creating a mottled, random look. This took 6-7 hours and used 2 of the 5 gallon container.

After waiting another 24 hours, the customer applied three coats of wax using a paint pad, achieving a high gloss finish. Each coat took 4-5 hours to complete and used 4 of the 5 gallon container. The customer recommends stirring Aquatint constantly to prevent it from settling, enjoying the way the stain works when using multiple colors, and making sure to have good lighting when applying both the stain and wax.

Stained concrete basement floor with Charcoal & Gray AcquaTint

Stained concrete basement floor with colored concrete sealers

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For more detailed information about this project, check out this link.

ColorWave® Stain: Stunning DIY Concrete Transformations

Explore our gallery of before-and-after photos featuring DIY concrete staining projects. From living rooms to patios, see how ColorWave® Stain makes a difference.

By Justin Richardson

How to Choose ColorWave® Colors

Bar area in a basement with a dark brown, polished concrete floor stained in Molasses ColorWave. — Bar area with a sleek, polished concrete floor stained in Molasses ColorWave

Modern Basement with Molasses-Stained Concrete Floor

This project transformed a basement space with a smooth concrete floor stained using Molasses ColorWave®. The rich brown tones add warmth and sophistication, enhancing the bar, dining, and living areas with a polished, contemporary look.

Floor prepped with walls masked off, ready for stain

Concrete floor with Molasses stain applied, showing swirls and variations. — Concrete floor with Molasses stain applied, showing swirls and variations

A completed concrete basement floor, stained with Molasses ColorWave, showing a rich, dark brown finish with natural variations and smooth texture across the entire surface. — Finished concrete floor with Molasses ColorWave stain showing rich, natural brown variations

A living and dining area in a basement with a Molasses ColorWave stained concrete floor, highlighting the smooth, dark brown finish that enhances the furniture and décor of the space. — Completed floor with rich brown Molasses ColorWave® stain

Details & Tips

Project Info:

- Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
- Estimate of Square Footage: 1500 sq. ft.
- Project Description:
  We wanted to finish our basement with a unique style. So my wife and I decided to utilize the new concrete as the finished floor using a stain and sealer.
- Personal Tips:
  The cleaning process is the most tedious and time consuming, but it is the most important part. Make sure you are using compatible products for removing stains or paint from the floor to avoid any potential issues between DC products and cleaners. Lastly, follow the directions and do not cut corners.
- Direct Colors Products Used:
  5 Gal. Molasses ColorWave® & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
  1 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Satin
  5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin
- Other Products Used:
  Simple green cleaner, floor scrubber, and a shop vac.

Products Used

ColorWave Trial Kit — ColorWave® Trial Kit

Please be aware that each photo in this gallery showcases projects accomplished with our ColorWave® Water-based Stain and is provided by actual customers, serving as a source of inspiration. However, since ColorWave® is semi-transparent, the final appearance of your project will be influenced by the initial color and condition of your concrete surface, and thus, your final results might vary. For the best results, we strongly recommend performing a small test on your specific surface before applying the stain to the entire project to ensure the final look aligns with your expectations.

Tri-Room Remodel with ColorWave® Stain

This project highlights a transformative remodel of a kitchen, family, and laundry room, where everything was stripped down to the concrete and rejuvenated using ColorWave® Stain. Despite some challenges with the gloss application and a slight texture in the finish due to overgrinding, the result is a revitalized space with a pleasing new aesthetic.

Iron Gray Accents Over Silver, White, and Stone Gray ColorWave on Concrete Floor

Dry Coats of Silver and Stone Gray ColorWave on Concrete Floor

Water based stained concrete floors — Beautiful marble like design with water based stains

Tip: Apply the stains in a wet-on-wet technique, similar to acid staining, and used multiple layers to achieve the desired effect.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Complete Kitchen, Family and Laundry Room remodel taking the rooms down to the studs including 2 layers of flooring to reveal the concrete.
Personal Tips:
I originally was drawn to the acid stain floors but chose ColorWave for the convenience but applied it somewhat like an acid stain with the wet on wet multiple colors. I started out with a white only (which I would skip were I to do it again). I did 3 layers of color, but two would have have worked well. I especially love the Silver which in certainly light a baby blue and reacts with the Iron Gray to be similar to a dark Navy.I used a first coat sealer of the EasySeal Satin and then topped it off with the EasySeal Gloss. The satin coverage was perfect, but the Gloss seemed to be soaking in too much in some areas and glossing better in others. I ended up putting 3 thin coats of the gloss for the best coverage. It is not fully glassy as I had hoped but has a slight texture which I believe is due to some overgrinding in areas. I finished with 2 coats of High Gloss Floor Wax. Due to the fumes in EasySeal Solvent Sealer, I would choose the water based sealer even though it is not as good for “re-sealing.”
Direct Colors Products Used:
ColorWave® Stain Trial Kit (Navy, Rust & Stone)
ColorWave® Stain Trial Kit (Black, Blue, Steel)
Patch-Rx™ Concrete Repair: Base Gray: 2.5 lbs
Patch-Rx™ Concrete Repair: Base White: 2.5 lbs
1 Gal. Silver ColorWave® Stain
3 x 1 Gal. White ColorWave® Stain
2 x 1 Gal. Stone ColorWave® Stain
1 Qt. Iron ColorWave® Stain
3 x 1 Gal. EasySeal™ Gloss
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss
Other Products Used:
Angle Grinder with Diamond Blade, Rotating Sander, Simple Green Degreaser, Wet Dry Shop Vacuum.

Products Used

Stone Gray ColorWave Swatch — ColorWave® Stone

White ColorWave Concrete Stain Color Swatch — ColorWave® White

Silver ColorWave Concrete Stain Color Swatch — ColorWave® Silver

From Basement Mess to Marble Elegance

This project transformed a mastic-covered basement into a marbled masterpiece using White and Steel Gray ColorWave® stains. Despite initial tile ghosting, the application of sealer revealed a floor resembling a magnified marble slab, adding an extraordinary touch to an ordinary basement.

Image of a basement floor covered in mastic, showing the ghosting of tiles once under the carpet — Before transformation: the basement floor left with black asbestos mastic and remnants of old tiles

Photograph of the finished basement floor, gleaming with sealer and gloss wax — Marbled elegance: The finished basement floor, resplendent after the application of sealer and gloss wax, creating a marble slab illusion

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 7 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 420 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I had a basement that was about 3/4 mastic that flooded about 5 years ago. When it flooded all of the 1970’s tile that was under the carpet lost its adhesion and came away. I was left with all the black asbestos mastic and a mess. Luckily I had already used Direct Colors for my countertops so I figured if there was one place that could solve my ugly basement this was the place.
Personal Tips:
BE PATIENT it is worth doing right and letting the product dry and/or cure for the correct time.Also, I had a lot better luck using one of the twist mops when applying the polish and just going over it lightly
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Steel DIY ColorWave® & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
2 x 1 Gal. White ColorWave® & AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. White ColorWave® Stain
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss
1 Gal. CitrusEtch™ Concrete Etcher
1 Qt. ProClean Neutralizer™ Concentrate
1 Qt. ProClean Degreaser™ Concentrate
1 Gal. Bean-E-Doo Mastic Remover
Other Products Used:
Libman floor brush
Twist mops
Floor scraper
Spyder scraper blade attachment for saw all

Products Used

DIY Marbled Concrete Floors Using the Puddling Method

Breath new life into your space using ColorWave’s Black, Stone Gray, and Iron Gray hues.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 430 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We used Colorwave Black, Stone Gray and Iron gray, used the “puddling method” and finished it off with an acrylic water based high gloss sealer. We also put 2 coats of wax afterwards.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Black ColorWave® Stain
1 Gal. Iron ColorWave® Stain
1 Gal. Stone ColorWave® Stain
3 x 1 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Gloss
1 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Satin
Other Products Used:
Wet Dry Shop Vacuum.

Products Used

Black ColorWave Swatch — ColorWave® Black

Industrial Basement Transformation: Crafting a Modern Home Office

Explore the transformation of an unfinished basement into a sleek, industrial home office. A homeowner overcame paint overspray and etching marks by using stain samples and a buffing technique to achieve a distinct stone-like look. Dive into this inspiring project to learn how to craft your own floor makeover.

Clean and etched basement floor, prepared for staining

Gorgeous polished basement floor with a charming white dog sitting in the middle, showcasing the stone-like appearance and three distinct colors achieved through expert staining and polishing techniques. — A pawsitively beautiful transformation: polished basement floor showcasing a stone-like appearance.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 210 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Our project is to make our basement into some usable bonus space. We aren’t completely finishing out the space but going for a polished industrial type of look. This space will be a future work from home office space.
Personal Tips:
We had a lot of paint overspray and learned that vinegar works great to pull that up and on stubborn areas my steam shot cleaner worked great. Don’t skimp on the prep, it was so much work but definitely necessary.We etched our floors and after the first coat of stain, we could see all of our scrub brush strokes from etching, it looks really bad. When the brush marks didn’t dry away we were left to problem-solve. We took out black and silver samples and tried to hide the worst areas. We left that to dry a bit and it didn’t look quite right so we actually took our bissell spinwave mop and swirled/buffed the stain. This worked great! It hid the etching marks and made a really nice stone type of look with the three colors. It was a rollar coaster but I love how it turned out.
Direct Colors Products Used:
ColorWave® Stain Trial Kit ( Black, Silver & Stone)
2 x 1 Gal. Steel ColorWave® Stain AcquaSeal™ Gloss Kit
Other Products Used:
Rust-Oleum Clean & Etch & ZEP Wet-Look Floor Polish

Products Used

Fixing a Pink Concrete Driveway

This customer wanted a rich brown concrete driveway to match their home’s wood accents but ended up with a light peach color. After finding Direct Colors, they used ColorWave® stain to achieve the perfect shade.

Concrete driveway before staining, showing a pale pinkish tone

Concrete driveway after staining, featuring rich Aztec Brown and Molasses tones — Concrete driveway after staining with Aztec Brown and Molasses tones

Details & Tips

Project Info:

- Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
- Estimate of Square Footage: 336 sq. ft.
- Project Description:
  We wanted colored concrete for the middle section of our driveway. We selected a color from the concrete company, a color that was supposed to match the stained wood accents on the front of the house. Once is was all dry, the color was more light peach colored than the rich brown we were hoping for. Fast forward a few years and I found Direct Colors online. They seemed to have the answer to our problem. After carefully trying some samples, I ordered a whole batch of stain, antiquing, and sealer. The results are beautiful and exactly what we wanted. And I have plenty left over to fix our patio in the backyard. Thanks Direct Colors!
- Personal Tips:
  Tip #1– after the color don’t use the spiked candles on you shoes. I found, even walking very carefully, it left marks in the color. Since the color was dry and I was rolling the sealer, I simply wore an old pair of socks.

Direct Colors Products Used:
3 x 1 Gal. Molasses ColorWave® Stain EasySeal™ Satin Kit
3 x 1 Gal. Aztec Brown Antiquing™ Stain

Products Used

Achieving a Natural Stone Effect with ColorWave® White and Blue Stain

This project involved transforming the flooring of an entire home built on a slab on grade . The goal was to make the concrete floors resemble stone rather than plain concrete. White ColorWave® was applied throughout the home using a dry mop and hand-held pump sprayer, with blue added to the laundry and walk-in shower.

White Stain Applied to Concrete Floor Using Handheld Pump Sprayer and Dry Mopped

Half of Room Stained with White ColorWave on Concrete Floor

Concrete Floor After First Coat of Sealer (Still Wet)

Stained and Sealed Concrete Floor After ProWax Polish

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 2300 sq. ft.
Project Description:
We have a slab on grade home that we chose to use those concrete floors as our flooring throughout the entire home. We wanted to add some color to them to make it look more like stone than just a plain concrete floor. We applied ColorWave white to the entire floor with a dry mop. We applied the white stain color using a hand held pump sprayer to the entire floor and then dry mopped it. We also added blue to the laundry and walk in shower. We power washed and wet vac on Friday. Vacuumed any leftover debris on Saturday morning applied the white and blue colors Saturday morning and put the first coat of sealer on Saturday afternoon. The second coat of high-gloss sealer went on Sunday afternoon.
Personal Tips:
We used the dry mop because we wanted more of a cloudy look than a sprayed on paint look. When rubbing the color in using the dry mop use circular motions rather than side to side.
Direct Colors Products Used:
ColorWave® Stain Trial Kit
5 Gal. White ColorWave® & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. White ColorWave® Stain
1 Qt. Blue ColorWave® Stain
5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss
Other Products Used:
Wet Dry Shop Vacuum.

Products Used

BLUE ColorWave Concrete Stain Color Swatch-High-Quality — ColorWave® Blue

Mottled Makeover for a Pre-K Space

This Pre-K space was transformed with a mottled effect using ColorWave® Stain in Molasses and Mahogany. Two coats of EasySeal™ and a finish of ProWax Polish™ resulted in a lively and engaging environment for little learners.

Plain concrete flooring in a Pre-K classroom space

Mottled effect flooring in Molasses and Mahogany ColorWave® Stain in a Pre-K classroom

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 350 sq. ft.
Project Description:
After concrete prep everything was easy the stain, sealer, and polish. Love the look and the finished product.
Personal Tip: Never put paint or adhesive on concrete. It’s hard to get off.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Mahogany DIY ColorWave® & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
1 Gal. Molasses ColorWave® & EasySeal™ Gloss Kit
5 Gal. ProWax Polish™ Gloss
Other Products Used:
Finish sander ( rented)
And a lot of mop water.

Products Used

Revitalized Stamped Patio with ColorWave® Stain

After using the ColorWave Kit, this once-faded patio is now beautifully restored with rich Molasses and Mahogany tones, creating an inviting outdoor space.

Faded concrete patio with a stamped design, cleaned and etched, ready for staining and sealing. — Faded concrete patio with a stamped design, cleaned and ready for staining

Restored concrete patio stained with Molasses and Mahogany ColorWave, featuring outdoor furniture and umbrellas in a sunny yard. — This once-faded patio is now beautifully restored with rich Molasses and Mahogany tones, creating an inviting outdoor space.

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I have a ten year old faded patio that was originally colored concrete that was stamped and stained. Over the years I’ve tried applying sealer to make the faded color pop but was not successful. I found Direct Color and used the Colorwave Kit to clean, etch, stain and seal my patio back to its original but even better beautiful artsy style and finish!
Personal Tip: After I sprayed on the two Colorwave stains Mahogany and Molasses I then used an old broom to blend and smear them into the concrete stamp groves. I sprayed the sealer on and then used a paint roller on an extension pole to evenly spread it out.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Mahogany DIY ColorWave® & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Molasses ColorWave® & AcquaSeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

Custom Concrete Countertop by @cretewooddesigns

A custom concrete countertop created by @cretewooddesigns. The project involved working in layers and using water to blend colors, allowing for easy manipulation of the finish before sealing, resulting in a unique and much-appreciated final product.

Cured Poured-in-Place Concrete Countertop

Concrete Countertop Stained with Iron Gray and Steel Gray ColorWave

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 23 sq. ft.
Project Description:
This was a custom concrete countertop project for our friends. They absolutely love it! ❤️
Personal Tips:
Work in layers until you get the look you want. The product runs off easily before being sealed, so it’s easily manipulated to the finish you are wanting. Also, using water to help the colors come together well results in a unique look.
Direct Colors Products Used:
ColorWave® Stain Trial Kit (Iron, Molasses & Rust)
ColorWave® Stain Trial Kit (White, Steel & Stone)
1 Gal. Iron ColorWave® Stain
Other Products Used:
Trinic topical sealer

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STEEL GRAY ColorWave Concrete Stain Color Swatch-High-Quality — ColorWave® Steel

DIY Concrete Sunroom Makeover: Adding Character with ColorWave Gold Stain

If you’re looking to add some character to your outdoor space, a concrete patio makeover may be just the thing you need! That’s exactly what one DIYer did with their small 8×20 sunroom patio, and the result is stunning.

Stained concrete patio with ColorWave gold water-based stain

Sunroom concrete floor stained with Colorwave water-based gold stain

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 160 sq. ft.
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Gold DIY ColorWave® & EasySeal™ Satin Kit

Products Used

DIY Driveway Transformation with Water-Based Concrete Stain

Are you tired of looking at a faded and dull concrete driveway? With a little bit of elbow grease and the right materials, you can transform it into a beautiful, refreshed space. That’s exactly what one DIYer did, and the results are excellent.

Breathing new life into a dull scored concrete driveway with the vibrant Tangerine ColorWave water-based stain.

Products Used

TANGERINE ColorWave Concrete Stain Color Swatch-High-Quality — ColorWave Tangerine

DIY Driveway Paver Re-Staining: Water Based Concrete Stains Before & After

Are your concrete pavers looking faded and dull? Give them a fresh new look with a DIY re-staining project! That’s exactly what one DIYer did, and the results are impressive.

Products Used

Staining Heated Concrete Floors

If you live in an area with harsh winter weather, a heated concrete driveway might be the perfect solution to keep your surface clear of ice and snow. With ColorWave stains, you can safely stain heated concrete floors without compromising the functionality of the heating system. These stains work well on both interior and exterior heated concrete, as they color the surface without interfering with the heating elements embedded within the concrete.

Water-based stained concrete patio — Almond, amber and olive ColorWave water-based stains

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 15 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 360 sq. ft.
Project Description:
New heated driveway approach
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Almond ColorWave® Stain
1 Gal. Amber ColorWave® Stain
1 Gal. Olive ColorWave® Stain
2 x 1 Gal. AcquaSeal™ Gloss

Products Used

ALMOND ColorWave Concrete Stain Color Swatch-High-Quality — ColorWave®Almond

Garage Floor Makeover

Unappealing garage with peeling coating and sealant on the floor, left behind by the previous owner

The newly sealed garage floor with an open door for ventilation due to strong VOCs, followed by the successful test of parking cars without peeling or hot tire marks after the coating has cured

Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 5 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 500 sq. ft.
Project Description:
My garage was unsightly; The previous owner applied some kind of coating and sealant that was coming up. I rented a concrete grinder to remove the coating. This took 2 days and was the hardest part of the project.On day 3 I applied 3 coats of ColorWave Amber. This was easy and only took 15 minutes per coat using a pump sprayer.On Day 4 I applied the first coat of EasySeal gloss. The directions say this can be applied using a pump sprayer, but it is too thick. I had to stop my project to go buy a roller and tray. I was worried the roller would leave streaks, but there are only a few and they are not very noticeable unless you are looking for them.I left the garage door open overnight because the VOC’s are no joke! I even turned off the AC because it was pulling air in from the garage and stinking up my house. I am not complaining though because I know this product will last!Day 5 I applied the second coat of sealer without any issues.The real test was 3 days later when I put the cars back in the garage. I was worried the coating would peel up and leave hot tire marks, but it didn’t!

I would totally recommend these products for the DIY’er, I saved thousands of dollars from the quotes I received.
Direct Colors Products Used:
3 x 1 Gal. Amber ColorWave® Stain & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
Other Products Used:
Blastrac concrete grinder./li>

Products Used

A Tribute to Prince

Onyx Black ColorWave Stain — Black ColorWave Stain and Satin Acrylic Sealer

Products Used

Stylish Entryway Floor

A modern entryway featuring a dark brown concrete floor stained with ColorWave Molasses, complementing contemporary decor. — Concrete entryway stained with ColorWave Molasses, adding warmth and style

Outdoor Kitchen with Stained Countertop

Outdoor kitchen countertop stained with Molasses ColorWave, showcasing a rich and warm surface perfect for outdoor entertaining

Molasses-Stained Patio

Patio with Molasses-stained concrete and outdoor seating area — This outdoor patio was stained with ColorWave Molasses, providing a warm, earthy tone that complements the cozy seating area

Vibrant Mahogany and Molasses Floor

A smooth indoor concrete floor stained with ColorWave Mahogany and Molasses, showcasing rich brown tones and a glossy, polished surface — Indoor floor with ColorWave Mahogany and Molasses stains, sealed for a high-gloss finish

Stone, Steel and White ColorWave®

Residential floor stained with Colorwave water-based stain, showing white streaks with stone grey filled in with steel grey, sealed with gloss acquaseal — A residential floor transformed with Colorwave® stain: white streaks and stone grey filled in with steel, then sealed with a gloss AcquaSeal™ finish

Black and Steel Gray Stained Hallway

A smooth, polished concrete hallway floor stained in ColorWave Black and Steel Gray, reflecting a sleek and modern look. — Interior concrete hallway stained with ColorWave Black and Steel Gray

Steel Gray ColorWave®

Steel ColorWave® on Stamped Concrete

Close-up of a stamped concrete patio stained with ColorWave Steel Gray, featuring a textured surface with rocking chairs on the patio. — Outdoor stamped concrete patio stained with ColorWave Steel Gray

Black & Silver ColorWave®

Stained concrete brick grill — Stained Concrete Brick with Silver Gray ColorWave

ColorWave® Stained Flagstone Patio

A flagstone patio featuring ColorWave stains in Rust, Amber, and Tangerine, with wicker furniture and potted plants enhancing the cozy outdoor space. — Flagstone patio stained with ColorWave Rust, Amber, and Tangerine, creating a warm, natural look.

Black & Silver ColorWave®

Stamped concrete patio stained in Iron Gray with Adirondack chairs around a fire pit, surrounded by flower pots and gravel landscaping, with a dog in the background. — Iron Gray Stamped Patio with Fire Pit

Molasses and Steel Gray

Sunset-Stained Outdoor Countertop

An outdoor countertop stained in ColorWave Sunset, with a stacked stone base and a glossy finish, situated near a pool and garden area. — Outdoor countertop stained with ColorWave Sunset, adding warmth and style to the patio area.

Cozy covered patio with Olive ColorWave®

A modern covered patio with concrete flooring stained in ColorWave Olive, featuring outdoor furniture, potted plants, and a swing chair, blending natural tones with the surrounding design. — Cozy covered patio with ColorWave Olive-stained concrete, creating a refreshing and natural outdoor living space

Stained Concrete Compass Design

A decorative concrete compass stained in ColorWave Black, Iron Gray, Navy, and Yellow, with intricate detail and a weathered look — Concrete compass stained with ColorWave in Black, Iron Gray, Navy, and Yellow for a bold decorative touch.

Stained Fire Pit Patio

Circular concrete fire pit patio stained in ColorWave Rust

Plum Concrete Stain Photo Gallery

Find inspiration for your next concrete stain project. Discover all the possibilities with Direct Colors DIY guides. Browse today, begin tomorrow.

Antiquing Stain Before Concrete Sealer — Antiquing stain before sealer

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Driftwood, Cumin, Cafe Royal, Milano Red, Gray, Fern Green, Buff, Plum, Wheat After Sealer Application — Driftwood, Cumin, Cafe Royale, Milano Red, Gray, Fern Green, Buff, Plum, Wheat after sealer application

Before using Antiquing stain sample kit — Before using Antiquing trial kit

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Bath towels soaked in concrete mixture finished with Driftwood, Charcoal, Cinnabar & Plum AcquaTint

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Concrete That Looks Like Wood Floors: A Guide to Creating a Faux Wood Grain Finish

by Justin Richardson

Faux Wood Stamped Concrete Driveway — Refinished driveway with a concrete overlay stained using several brown-tone Antiquing stains to mimic the look of wood. The stains have been applied to create a natural and realistic wood grain effect on the concrete surface. The result is a unique and charming driveway that stands out with its warm and inviting appearance.

If you’re looking to upgrade your floors with a unique and trendy look, consider stained concrete floors that look like wood! This technique is gaining popularity among our customers, and for good reason. With the right products, tools, and know-how, you can transform any concrete surface into a faux wood masterpiece.

So, can you make concrete look like wood floors? Absolutely! All it takes is some patience, basic technique, and concrete overlay. The cost for a DIY faux wood concrete floor design is typically around $2 – $4 per square foot, while hiring a professional contractor can cost around $8 – $10 per square foot.

Faux Wood Concrete Floor — This faux wood floor is created using Concrete Overlay stained with Khaki and Driftwood Antiquing Stains, and sealed with AcquaSeal satin acrylic sealer.

Transforming concrete floors into wood-looking masterpieces with concrete overlay and stain

To achieve the faux wood finish, follow these steps:

STEP 1: Clean the Concrete Surface

Start by cleaning the floor with a light concrete cleaner and degreaser solution. Thoroughly scrub and rinse all residues from the surface, then allow the floor to dry.

STEP 2: Mix Concrete Overlay

For bucket mixing, follow the following instructions:

Use a five-gallon pail and a drill mixer.
Pour one gallon of water into the pail.
Slowly add the contents of a 50-pound box of overlay while mixing continuously.
Thoroughly combine the water and overlay until the dry polymer is saturated and properly dispersed.
Use less water for a thicker consistency, and add water as needed to thin the overlay during the application.
Keep the water uniform for every box of overlay if using colored concrete pigment to avoid color discrepancies.
The pot life for the overlay is approximately 45 minutes, and you can extend it by 15 minutes by using ice-cold rather than room-temperature water.
The pot life will be affected by the ambient temperature, with cooler temperatures marginally extending and hotter shortening the expected pot life.
For spraying the overlay, add up to one gallon of additional water per box of smooth concrete overlay until the mixture resembles a thin pancake batter suitable for spraying at 25 psi.

STEP 3: Apply Concrete Overlay

To apply using a concrete stencil:

Select Concrete Overlay as a base coat for stenciling.
Follow the mixing instructions for spraying overlay.
Spray from a flat-work texture gun at 25 psi.
Hold the sprayer at least six inches from the surface during application to minimize rebound.
Mix one box at a time as needed, and allow drying for six hours before applying the stencil.
Affix the stencil and then carefully spray the top or color smooth texture overlay coat in the same manner.
Pull the stencil after 10 minutes of drying time.

To apply using a concrete stamp:

Stamped concrete overlay designed to look like wood planks

Select Concrete Overlay for stamping and apply at ¼ inch depth.
Choose stamps or texture mats intended for use with overlay.
Add one gallon of water per 40-pound box. Use ice water if stamping in hotter temperatures.
Use a gauge rake set to the desired depth on the surface.
Follow with a squeegee trowel to smooth out any rake marks or other imperfections.
Allow drying until the surface can be depressed without sticking.
Apply Concrete Liquid Release Agent to the stamps, tools, and overlay to prevent sticking.
Depending on the size of the job and the mats, use at least three stamps or texture mats along with one floppy for any project up to 100 square feet.
For 100-1500 square feet projects, use a set of five stamps or mats and floppy.
Time is limited so make the choice according to crew size and ability.
Assuming 75F and a 100 square feet project, allow for twenty minutes of stamping time – slightly more time if colder or less time in hotter temperatures.
If stamping a larger area, one person should be mixing overlay continually while others are applying and stamping.
If the work cannot be completed at one time, do not stop applying in the middle of a section or floor.
End at logical separation, such as an expansion joint, for the best overall finished appearance.

STEP 4: Create Faux Wood Grain

Create a “wood-like” texture by brushing the wet overlay in a continuous manner with a broom. Work in sections, as the approximate working time for overlay once applied is about 10 – 12 minutes. Ambient and surface temperature will affect working time, with cooler temperatures marginally extending and hotter shortening the expected working time.

Do not attempt to apply Concrete Overlay to surfaces below 40F or above 85F. Hot temperatures can be controlled by moistening the surface with water prior to application.

STEP 5: Apply Concrete Stain

Apply the Antiquing™ or ColorWave® concrete stain colors you chose or mix various brown tone stains and spray them onto the wet overlay. Darken random sections with EasyTint™ tinted sealer to provide more excellent color contrast across the floor.

With a little practice, you’ll be able to create a stunning stained concrete floor that looks like wood. To get even more detailed instructions on applying the stain, watch the video below. Get ready to impress your guests with a unique and stylish new floor!

How to Make a Concrete Countertop that Looks Like Wood

Concrete countertop stained to look like wood

Concrete vanity stained to look like wood

Concrete is not only the most durable countertop option available, but it’s also infinitely customizable too. Designers and DIYers can use concrete stain to match existing decor, as well as to build a stunning centerpiece. Learn more from these innovative concrete experts!

Direct Colors Sales & Promo Codes

Now is the perfect time to tackle those long-avoided home improvement projects. Take advantage of limited-time markdowns and other incredible deals.

*Due to the everyday unexpected changing business operation circumstances, we can only guarantee sale on purchases placed before 2:00PM CST and while supplies last.

Coffee Brown & Black Acid Stained Patio Before & After Picture

Acid Staining Outdoors in the Summer

Applying acid stain and sealer in the summer months can be challenging especially if you live in a hot temperature climate. Here are a few tips for outdoor concrete projects that will help DIYer’s get it right the first time.

Applying Black Acid Stain to Outdoor Concrete — Staining Concrete Border with Foam Applicator

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Concrete temperature and wind conditions often determine success or failure for an acid stain project. Hot, dry conditions can cause acid stain to prematurely dry before properly reacting with the concrete.

Sealing Outdoor Concrete in the Summer

Finding the right time of day to apply concrete sealer during the summer months can be a challenge. Sealers should be applied when the concrete is at its lowest temperature either early in the morning or late in the evening. East facing concrete should be sealed later in the day and west facing early in the morning. Colored concrete in direct sunlight, especially dark browns and black, could be several times hotter than the ambient temperature and just a few minutes of sunlight will raise the surface temperature very quickly. When the slab is hot, air passes through the concrete at a faster rate causing more air bubbles and the sealer resin often dries before the solvent or water can completely evaporate.

Concrete Sealer Application — Applying Concrete Sealer with Nap Roller

Applying Concrete Sealer with Foam Applicator

Summertime Sealing Tips:

Apply sealer in the early morning or early evening depending on the location of the concrete.
Avoid applying sealer to concrete in direct sun, especially countertops.
Do not apply sealer to concrete hotter than 85-90F.

Black and Coffee Acid Stained Concrete Patio

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Khaki Stained Concrete Projects: A DIY Compilation

Dive into this amazing compilation of Khaki stained concrete projects, all undertaken and completed by actual DIY customers. Featuring before and after photos of patios, pool decks, walkways, and porches, this collection showcases the transformative power of Khaki stained concrete.

By Justin Richardson

Transforming a Faded Pool Deck with Khaki and Charcoal EasyTint™ Satin

A DIY journey of refreshing a faded, broom-finished concrete pool deck and coping. The deck was stained with Khaki EasyTint™ Satin and the coping with Charcoal EasyTint™ Satin. Key tip: Don’t overthink it! Achieving professional results is possible with quality products and a helpful support team just a phone call away

Neglected broomed finish concrete pool area prior to restoration

Stunning makeover with EasyTint Khaki for the deck and Charcoal for the coping

Khaki & Charcoal Stained Concrete Pool Deck — Charcoal coping & khaki EasyTint on broom finish concrete pool deck

Refinished concrete pool deck — Charcoal & Khaki EasyTint

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 1 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1100
Project Description:
Faded concrete pool deck
Personal Tips:
Don’t overthink it! You are capable of achieving professional results with these easy to use quality products from Direct Colors, especially with their highly qualified product support team only a phone call away!
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Qt. ProClean Degreaser™
5 Gal. Khaki EasyTint™ Satin
1 Gal. Charcoal EasyTint™ Satin
16 Oz. Non Slip Concrete Sealer Additive

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Charcoal EasyTint Charcoal Swatch — EasyTint™ Charcoal

DIY Makeover: Patio, Spa & Pool Area with Khaki Antiquing™ Stain

A sizable area comprising a patio, spa, and pool surround with unfinished, faded stamped concrete, rejuvenated with Khaki Antiquing™ stain and sealed with EasySeal™ satin. A personal tip for fellow DIYers: rollers worked more effectively than spray, and remember to shut off garden sprinklers during the process.

Before photo of a faded stamped concrete spa surround awaiting its transformation — The original spa area, showing the worn-out stamped concrete prior to the application of Khaki Antiquing stain

Finished spa and pool deck area showcasing the stunning transformation with the Khaki Antiquing stain and satin sealer on the stamped concrete — A beautifully refreshed spa and pool deck area with the Khaki Antiquing stain and satin sealer, proving that a little effort goes a long way

A DIYer using a roller to apply the Khaki Antiquing stain on the faded stamped concrete spa surround — Rolling in Progress: Capturing the moment as the Khaki Antiquing stain is carefully applied with a roller, bringing a new sense of style to the stamped concrete

sealing process on the newly stained stamped concrete spa area

Khaki Stained Stained Concrete Pool Deck

After photo of the spa area showing the revitalized stamped concrete, now stained in Khaki and sealed for a slip-free finish — From Faded to Fabulous: The spa and pool deck area post-transformation, featuring the vibrant Khaki-stained stamped concrete, sealed for durability and safety

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 1500.00 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Large patio, spa and pool surround area of unfinished stamped concrete
Personal Tips:
Rollers worked better than spray. Shut off garden sprinklers
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Khaki DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
2 x 1 Gal. Khaki Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
5 Gal. Khaki Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
2 x 16 Oz. Non Slip Concrete Sealer Additive

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Khaki Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Khaki

DIY Revival of Aged Pool Deck with Antiquing™ Stains

A 62-year-old DIY enthusiast successfully restored her 12-year-old pool deck using Charcoal and Khaki Antiquing™ Stain & EasySeal™ Kits. Despite the old and faded stamped concrete, the deck was transformed in just 4 days with some planning, the right products, and a bit of elbow grease. Tips: Prepare all materials, cover in case of rain, roll and brush stain into crevices, and use a sprayer for even sealer coats. A rewarding project with impressive results!”

Pool coping with fresh Khaki Antiquing stain — Coping with Color: The pool coping transformation, as the Khaki Antiquing Stain breathes new life into the faded stamped concrete

In-progress photo showing half of the pool coping with fresh Khaki stain and the other half in its original state. — This in-progress shot captures the stunning contrast between the newly applied Khaki stain and the original faded color of the pool coping

Midway photo depicting half of the pool deck revitalized with Charcoal stain and the remaining half in its pre-stain condition — This halfway point snapshot showcases the dramatic difference between the revitalized Charcoal stained half of the pool deck and the as-yet untouched portion, hinting at the transformation to comeThis halfway point snapshot showcases the dramatic difference between the revitalized Charcoal stained half of the pool deck and the as-yet untouched portion, hinting at the transformation to come

pool deck stained with Charcoal Antiquing Stain — Decking Out in Charcoal: The pool deck's striking transformation, as the Charcoal Antiquing Stain begins to revive the once-faded stamped concrete

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 4 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 757 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Pool deck is stamped concrete gray color with a khaki colored perimeter around pool that was done 12 years ago. We sealed the deck every 2-3 years as we thought the only way to revive the color was painting the stamped concrete which we did not want to do as we wanted to keep the color dimension it had.
When we found the Direct Colors Antiquing Stain and EasySeal Kit it seemed to be the answer for a DYI project to meet our needs and to give the pool deck an uplift.
I ordered 2 Charcoal Antiquing Stain & EasySeal Kits and 1 Khaki Antiquing Stain & EasySeal Kit to see if it would give us the results we wanted. I contacted Direct Colors and spoke to a Rep who answered my questions and reviewed the instructions for prep and application.
I began with the pool perimeter and was impressed as I completed my second coat of stain. After I applied the two coats of sealer I was amazed and impressed with the results! I couldn’t wait to continue my project!
I completed the project with ease in 4 days (the delay was having to wait for my additional order as I wanted to make sure it provided the results that the Direct Colors advertised). As a 62 year old woman this was a fun, easy, and rewarding DYI project that gave us professional results. Our pool deck has been restored to its original color and shine thanks to Direct Colors Antiquing Stain & EasySeal Kit!
Personal Tips:
1. Read all instructions and contact Direct Colors Rep to answer questions or clarify and steps
2. Have all product and materials ready – have a tarp available in case of rain after you stain
3. If stamped concrete has a lot of crevices rolling on stain and brushing works best
4. Sprayer works best to get even coats of sealer
5. Have fun with this project – you can achieve professional results as a DYI
Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Gal. Khaki DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
1 Gal. Khaki DIY Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
2 x 1 Gal. Khaki Antiquing™ & EasySeal™ Satin Kit
16 Oz. Non Slip Concrete Sealer Additive
Other Products Used:
Chapin 1 gallon sprayer
Roller Brush with long handle
Paint brush

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Smooth Concrete Patio

Stained Concrete Patio Floors — Concrete patio stained with Khaki and Cafe Royale Antiquing stains and EasySeal Satin

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Cafe Royale Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Cafe Royale

Lanai and Porch Makeover with EasyTint™ Khaki

A DIY makeover of the lanai and connected porch using two coats of Khaki EasyTint™ Satin tinted sealer and a top coat of clear EasySeal™. Despite initial challenges with the pump sprayer and the appearance of uneven application, patience and light multiple coats resulted in a significantly improved and enjoyable patio. Tips: Have a roller handy, apply light coats, and don’t be discouraged by initial imperfections.

refinished front porch concrete floor — Refinished front porch with Khaki EasyTint

After one coat of Khaki easyTint — First coat of Khaki EasyTint

Stained concrete lanai floor — Khaki EasyTint and EasySeal

For Project Details & Tips

Project Info:

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 550 sq. ft.
Project Description:
Sealed with colored sealer our lanai at the back of the house and a slab we had poured that connected to the lanai and our front porch. All with two coats of the Khaki easy coat tinted sealer and a third/top coat of clear easy coat sealer on top.
Personal Tips:
If using a pump sprayer have someone else use a roller for a fast and even application. Our sprayer stopped working well and we simply rolled which worked fine. We went up and down and back and forth. Multiple very light coats seemed to be the best way to apply. It was our first time using a sealer and we are used to paints and or epoxy so it seemed to us very uneven and it highlighted imperfections in the concrete but as it dried it evened out and looked good. The surface is much better now than before and it’s a very usable and enjoyable patio now.

Direct Colors Products Used:
1 Qt. ProClean Degreaser™
3 x 1 Gal. Khaki EasyTint™ Satin
3 x 1 Gal. EasySeal™ Satin
16 Oz. Non Slip Concrete Sealer Additive

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Broom Finished Concrete Patio & Walkway

Stained Concrete Patio - Khaki — Khaki EasyTint

Stained Concrete Walkway — Khaki EasyTint on Brushed Concrete Walkway

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Stunning Stained Pavers Driveway

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Stamped Patio Refresh

Pet Friendly Stained Stamped Concrete Patio

Khaki, Cafe Royale and Terra Cotta Antiquing Stains on Faded Stamped Concrete Patio

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Salted Finish Concrete Patio

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Broomed Concrete Patio

Concrete Patio Stained with Dye — Khaki, Golden Rod, Charcoal & Oakwood Vibrance Dye on Concrete Patio

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For Project Details & Tips CLICK HERE

Project Completed In: 3 day(s)
Estimate of Square Footage: 225 sq. ft.
Project Description:
I was basically tired of looking at my patio regular concrete it would appear dirty. I stumble upon your website and I liked several of the products, so I decided to give it a try. I wanted to keep the colors close to my home colors. I love the outcome.
Personal Tips:
Just do it and have fun you can’t go wrong!

Direct Colors Products Used:
Khaki Vibrance Dye
Goldenrod Vibrance Dye
Charcoal Vibrance Dye
5 Gal. Solvent Based Acrylic Satin Concrete Sealer and Paver Sealer
3 Gal. Acetone Dye Sprayer

Stamped Concrete Patio

Stamped Concrete Pathway — Cafe Royale, Pumpkin, Black, Olive, Aztec Brown, Khaki Antiquing Stains sealed with High Gloss, Solvent-Based Acrylic Sealer

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Olive Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Olive

Aztec Brown Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Aztec Brown

Pumpkin Antiquing Swatch — Antiquing™ Pumpkin

Broomed Concrete Patio

Khaki, Cafe Royale & Charcoal Antiquing Stains on Brushed Concrete Patio

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How-to Apply Antiquing Stain

How-to Apply Vibrance Dye and EasyTint

Metallic Pearl Concrete Color Photo Gallery

Find Metallic Pearl inspiration for your next concrete stain project. Browse project galleries by color and discover all the possibilities with Direct Colors

White Pearl Metallic Epoxy Concrete Countertop — White Concrete Countertop with a Pearl Metallic Epoxy by Ken's Custom Designs

Ken Custom Designs - White Concrete Countertop with a Pearl Metallic Epoxy

Integrally Colored Concrete Conference Table - Pearl White Pigment, White Countertop Mix, Penetrating Concrete Sealer — White Conference Room Concrete Table

Overlay Metallic Epoxy Countertop — Rum and Pearl Metallic Epoxy on Concrete Overlay

Metallic Epoxy Kitchen Countertop — Rum and Pearl Metallic Epoxy on DCI Concrete Overlay

Metallic Epoxy Colors — Rum and Pearl Metallic Epoxy on Concrete Overlay

Metallic Epoxy Kitchen Countertop Remodel — Finish with the sealer of your choice for unbelievable results

Faux Marble Metallic Epoxy Countertop — Smooth White Concrete Overlay Sealed with Pearl and Whale Metallic Pigment in Epoxy Countertop Sealer

Blue Metallic Epoxy Countertop — Silvery Dove, Caribbean and Pearl Metallic Pigments in Epoxy Countertop Sealer

Metallic Epoxy Countertop Remodel — Smooth Gray Overlay sealed with Pearl, Dolphin and Whale metallic pigments in Epoxy Countertop Sealer

Kitchen Countertop Remodeling — Smooth White Concrete Overlay Sealed with Pearl and Whale Metallic Pigment in 100% Epoxy Countertop Sealer

Marble Metallic Epoxy Finish — Pearl and Whale Metallic Pigment in Epoxy on Smooth White Overlay

Marble Metallic Epoxy Countertop — Pearl and Whale Metallic Pigment in Epoxy on Smooth White Overlay

Marble Metallic Epoxy — Kitchen Countertop with Pearl and Whale Accents on White Base Color

Faux Marble Countertop Finish — Bathroom Vanity with Pearl and Whale Accents on a Gray Base Color

Metallic Epoxy Bathroom Vanity — Bathroom Vanity with Pearl and Whale Metallic Pigment Accents on a Gray Tinted Concrete Sealer Base Color

Blue Concrete Photo Gallery

Discover vivid blue concrete pigment possibilities in the Direct Colors project galleries. Get inspired, then get started with our DIY tutorials, videos and more

Blue Concrete Pigment Countertop Design — 15.4 Blue Concrete Pigment

Blue Concrete Table Design — 15.4 Blue Concrete Pigment

Blue High Gloss Countertop — 15.3 Concrete Pigment with High Gloss Sealer

Polyurethane Concrete Countertop — 15.4 Blue Concrete Pigment with Polyurethane Concrete Sealer

Bright blue concrete planters colored with Direct Colors Concrete Pigment.

Blue Concrete Tennis Table — 15.4 Premium Blue Concrete Pigment

Royal Blue Pigment Shower Colored Grout — Royal Blue Concrete Pigment Mixed with Shower Tile Grout

Blue Pigment Tile Grout — 15.4 Blue Concrete Pigment for Tile Grout

Blue Concrete Fire Pit — 15.4 Blue, 230 Black and 609 Brown Concrete Pigments

Blue Outdoor Countertop — 15.4 Blue Concrete Pigment

Blue Concrete Pigment Countertop — Midnight Blue (15.3-5lb.) Concrete Pigment

Blue Pigment Concrete Planters — 15.4 Blue Concrete Pigment in White Concrete

Integrally Colored Outdoor Countertop Design

Blue Outdoor Countertop Design — 75 Blue and 230 Black Concrete Pigments in White Concrete

Blue Gray Outdoor Countertop — 75 Blue and 230 Black Concrete Pigments in White Concrete

Marbled Blue Acid Stain — Azure Blue Acid Stain Sealed with Acrylic Concrete Sealer

Concrete Pigment Art Project — DCI 15.4 Blue and Iron Oxide Pigments

Integrally Colored Wall Design — 15.4 Blue and 5376 Green Concrete Pigments

Blue Pigment Overlay — 15.4 Blue Pigment in Smooth Gray Overlay

Blue Concrete Pigment Tabletop — 15.4 Concrete Pigment

Blue Concrete Pigment Cross — 15.4 Concrete Pigment

Blue Concrete Pigment Table — 15.3 Concrete Pigment

Blue Outdoor Kitchen Countertop — Integrally Colored with Blue 1515, 15.4, 75 Premium Concrete Pigments and 1311 Gold Concrete Pigment sealed with High Gloss 500 Polyurethane Sealer

Final Blue Concrete Countertop Design — 15.4 Blue Concrete Pigment Countertop Finished Design

Blue Pigment Concrete Countertop Design Team — Concrete Institute Countertop Design Team

underlit glass aggregate countertop — 15.3 Blue Concrete Pigment with Underlit Glass Aggregates

Blue Pigment Crushed Granite Countetop — Blue Concrete Pigment in White Based Concrete

Concrete Pigment Fine Art — Blue and Other Concrete Pigment Pigment Colors in Concrete - William Hall Art

Blue Metallic Epoxy Kitchen Countertop — Ocean, Silvery Dove and Dolphin Metallic Pigments in Epoxy Countertop Sealer

DIY Concrete Countertops — Blue Concrete Pigment

The Direct Colors acid stains used were Coffee Brown, Malayan Buff, and Azure Blue.

Premium Blue Integral Concrete Pigment 1551, Concrete Pigment 1835, Concrete Pigment 1311, Ti02 Premium White concrete Pigment, Premium Green Concrete Pigment

Acid Stained Turquoise Floor — Wet on dry technique using Azure Blue 1:1 & Cola Full & Diluted 10:1. Matte Polyurethane Sealer

Tuquoise Acid Stained Floor — Smooth White Overlay, Azure Blue and Cola Acid Stains Sealed with Glossy Water Based Polyurethane

Primary Pigment Colors Countertop — Integrally Colored Blue, Green, Red and Yellow Concrete Bathroom Vanity

Close Up of Fish Backsplash with Integrally-Colored Grout — 15.4 Blue Concrete Pigment in Grout

Staining Stamped Faux Wood Concrete

Concrete is not only the most durable countertop option available, it’s infinitely customizable too. Designers and DIY’ers can use concrete stains to match pre-existing decor, as well as to build a stunning centerpiece. Learn more from these innovative concrete experts below!

DIY SPOTLIGHT: WILLIAM B. CARLISLE DESIGN

One of the finest faux-wood stained concrete countertops projects we have ever seen comes from William B. Carlisle Design. He’s created several wood grain concrete countertops that are truly spectacular and has agreed to share some of his secrets with us.

Can You Make Concrete Look Like Wood?

Yes, through a combination of concrete molds and intensive fabrication techniques, such as sand blasting, a natural wood finish may be achieved using concrete stains.

How To Stain Stamped Faux Wood Concrete

STEP 1: Reinforce cabinetry to bear the added countertop weight. The average concrete countertop can weight up to 900 lbs.

STEP 2: Make a countertop form with melamine or resawn lumber with biscuits and wood glue. Clamp until dry

STEP 3: Make silicone mold cast on edges of lumber for detailed edge grain.

STEP 4: In a 5 gallon pail, add 1 gallon of water. Pour 1/4 of a 50 lb box of Concrete Countertop Mix. and mix with a a hand mixer. Continue to add the mix slowly and blend for a minimum of 10 minutes.

Stamped Concrete stained to look like wood — Concrete Wood Grain Edge Created with Silicone Cast

Faux Wood Concrete Finish

How To Make Concrete Floors Look Like Wood

STEP 5: Spray a thin layer of Concrete Countertop Mix to completely cover mold thereby ensuring good coverage over the entire mold, which helps prevent pinholes.

STEP 6: Fill the rest of the mold with countertop mix and allow to cure.

STEP 7: Remove concrete countertop from mold sand blast concrete to bring out the wood grain.

STEP 8: Mist the concrete surface with water prior to applying acid stains.

How to Stain Concrete Countertops to Look Like Wood

STEP 9: Dilute acid stains 2:1 with water. For this look, Malayan Buff, Cola and Coffee Brown acid stain colors were used.

STEP 11: Sand any areas of high contrast to help to better blend the acid stain colors.

STEP 12: Once the stain has a “wood grain look” the top should be Neutralized and allowed to dry.

STEP 13: Seal with a high quality acrylic concrete sealer.

STEP 10: Using a regular paint brush and following the wood grain, apply acid stain beginning with Malayan Buff, followed by Cola and finally the Coffee Brown.

How to Make Faux Wood Concrete Floors

Creating a faux wood grain concrete finish for floors is becoming more and more popular with our customers. While this technique does take some skill to pull off, it can be done with the right products, tools and how to info!

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Café Royale Concrete Stain Project Gallery | Real Customer Transformations

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Enter The DIY Contest and Win!

Gray-Based Concrete Pigment Color Chart

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By Justin Richardson