Antiquing™ 2-Step Stain System

Concrete Antiquing™ Stain is a solution formulated using pigments. Once this concrete stain is applied to a concrete surface, the liquid remains wet for an extended period, allowing the pigments to travel and nest in the lower depressions of the surface. When they’ve completely dried, the pigments deposit lightly on the higher spaces and heavily in the lower depressions - resulting in that beautiful “antique” finish (hence the name!). Since Antiquing™ Stain is a pigment-based colorant, the pigments need to be held in place with a concrete sealer.

Typically intended for outdoor surfaces, Antiquing™ Stain is specifically-engineered for stamped concrete that remains in good condition. It can also be applied to hand-troweled, hand-textured, or brushed concrete. However, when the concrete doesn’t have depressions, such as a slate finish or other design, the color typically produces a more uniform result (depending on the application method). If your concrete is extremely porous, weathered, or degraded, consider using our Portico™ Paver Stain for better color results. If you’re unsure, check out an Antiquing™ Stain Trial Kit or Portico™ Paver Stain Trial Kit to confirm results for you before you start on a full project.

The good news is that concrete pigments don’t disappear! Assuming your concrete surface is in good condition and not extremely porous, weathered, or otherwise degraded, the pigments you sprayed down are still in place. Once Antiquing™ Stain is sprayed on the surface and dries for several hours, the dried pigment only appears faded. When you apply the recommended two thin coats of concrete sealer, the color will “pop” to life, transforming your space! Be mindful of a decision you’ll need to make between solvent-based or water-based sealers. While both are great options, the difference is that solvent-based sealers will “pop” color much more intensely than water-based sealers. Water-based sealers will tend to soften in color as they cure.

It would be unusual if the antiquing stain didn’t color your concrete surface successfully. Remember, this product is made of pigment, and pigments don’t disappear! If Antiquing™ Stain didn’t add any color to your concrete, it could potentially be one of two issues: The pigments became trapped or blocked in the sprayer. This can make it seem as if you sprayed liquid with no color. Make sure that you have removed all of the filters on the stain sprayer and that the O-rings are seated correctly in the sprayer head. The concrete that you’re applying Antiquing™ Stain to is far too porous, weathered, or degraded. When concrete is extremely porous, the pigments will fall deeper into the concrete surface - causing the color to diminish. This is not a sign of a faulty product, but unfortunately, you may have selected the wrong product for your particular project.

Surface preparation is often the most critical factor in any successful decorative concrete project. In order to achieve the best results, the concrete surface should be free of cure and seal, sealer, paint, dirt, grime, and grease. If the concrete was previously stained and the original sealer has worn away, go ahead and apply Antiquing™ Stain over that previous stain. What you would particularly want to avoid is applying the Antiquing™ Stain over a previously sealed surface. This could cause the still intact sealer to repel the new stain you’ve applied. Scrub the surface using ProClean Degreaser, rinse thoroughly, and allow to dry before applying Antiquing™ Stain.

Depending on your concrete surface and chosen application methods, coverage rates can vary. We follow industry standards of approximately 200 square feet per gallon, which commonly applies to lower viscosity products like colorants and concrete sealers. First, it’s always good to double-check your calculation of square footage. From there, a few variables come into play. How porous, weathered, or worn is your concrete? How heavily are you applying the product? On smoother, less porous concrete, you may find you’re getting a bit more coverage than anticipated. For stamped, textured, or more weathered, porous concrete, you may get a bit less coverage. These variables aren’t calculation errors, but more of a common indefinite. When in doubt, follow the general construction rule of rounding up for your supply needs.

Antiquing™ Stain should be sealed 8-10 hours after application to prevent the pigments from being displaced by wind or weather.

No, Antiquing™ Stain is a topical colorant with UV-stable and fade-resistant pigments. As the product is applied, the pigments will nest into the pores of the concrete, the solvent-based liquid will off-gas and dry, and then a sealer will need to be applied to keep the colorant on the surface. You must maintain the sealer to protect your color.

For exterior concrete, allow at least 8 hours for Antiquing™ Stain to dry and off-gas before applying acrylic solvent-based sealer.

Odorless mineral spirits should be used for the cleanup of Antiquing™ Stain.

We would recommend a different product for staining your garage floor, such as our Vibrance Dye. For a more permanent color change, consider EverStain Acid Stain.