Real Direct Colors Projects
Which concrete stain is right for me?
Answer 2–3 quick questions and pick the finish you love. We'll match you to the right stain — then start risk-free with a low-cost trial kit (free shipping).
More real projects
Every one of these is a real Direct Colors project. Tap any photo to swipe through more in that space.
How concrete stains actually work
There are a few ways to add color to concrete. The right one depends on your surface, the look you want, and where the project lives.
EverStain™ & DecoGel™
Reacts with the minerals in your concrete to create permanent, translucent, marbled color. One-of-a-kind on every slab, and ideal for smooth floors and vertical surfaces.
ColorWave® & PaveWave™
Water-based nano-pigments penetrate for rich, even, predictable color across a huge palette. Low-odor, low-VOC, pet and eco friendly, and built to perform indoors and out.
Vibrance™
Acetone-carried pigment delivers bold, vibrant, modern color on smooth or polished concrete. Fast-drying and easy to layer, then sealed afterward to lock the color in.
Antiquing™ & Portico™
Topical stains that sit on top to color stamped, textured, and paver concrete penetrating stains can't reach. Antiquing revives stamped work; Portico restores faded pavers.
One manufacturer, one system. Every Direct Colors stain is built to work with the matching prep, sealer, and maintenance, so there is zero guesswork about what goes together.
Find the right stain for your surface
Different surfaces take different stains. Pick your project to see the stains that work on it and shop that collection.
Not sure which stain is right for your space?
Get a free expert consult. We'll match your surface to the right system, send your 15% off code, and ship your trial kit free.
How to stain concrete in 4 steps
Every successful stain project follows the same path. Because Direct Colors makes all of it, your products are guaranteed to work together.
Test your color
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Try your color on a test area or trial kit to confirm the final look on your concrete before you commit.
Prep & clean
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Clean the surface and etch or strip as needed so the concrete can absorb the stain.
Apply the stain
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Apply in even coats. Acid stains react to create marbling; water-based stains build even color.
Seal & protect
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Seal to lock in color, add durability, and choose your final sheen from matte to gloss.
DIY guides from our experts
Free, step-by-step how-tos for every stain and surface — straight from the Direct Colors workshop.
Talk Through Your Project With a Project Coach
Share your surface, its current condition, and the finish you want. We'll help you identify the right preparation, stain, sealer, and quantity before you begin.
- Tell us about your spaceSurface, current condition, and the look you're after.
- Get a tailored planThe right prep, stain, sealer, and how much you'll need.
- Start with a trial kitTest your exact color before you commit — shipped free.
A coach replies within one business day · includes 15% off and free trial-kit shipping.
Start your free consultation
Concrete staining FAQ
What's the difference between acid stain, water-based stain, and concrete dye?
Acid stains (EverStain™, DecoGel™) react chemically with the minerals in concrete to create permanent, translucent, marbled color — every result is one-of-a-kind. Water-based stains (ColorWave®, PaveWave™) use fine nano-pigments that penetrate the surface for rich, even, predictable color with low odor and low VOCs. Concrete dyes (Vibrance™) carry vibrant pigment in acetone for bold, modern color on smooth or polished concrete and must be sealed.
Can I stain old or existing concrete?
Yes. As long as the concrete is clean, sound, and able to absorb liquid, it can be stained. Surfaces that are already sealed or previously stained need to be stripped and etched first — Direct Colors makes the cleaners, strippers, and etchers for that prep step.
Will concrete stain hold up outdoors?
Yes. Direct Colors stains are built for patios, driveways, pool decks, and walkways and resist sun, rain, and heavy foot traffic. Exterior projects should be finished with a quality sealer to protect the color and extend its life.
Do I need to seal stained concrete?
Sealing is recommended for nearly every project and required for concrete dye. A sealer locks in the color, protects against wear and weather, and lets you choose your final sheen from matte to high-gloss. Direct Colors is a complete system — prep, stain, seal, and maintain, all from one manufacturer.
How much does it cost to stain concrete?
Cost depends on your square footage, the stain you choose, and how many coats you apply. The lowest-risk way to start is a Trial Kit ($39.95 with free shipping) so you can test color on your own concrete before committing. Use the free Coverage Calculator to estimate exactly how much product your project needs.
Can I stain concrete myself (DIY)?
Absolutely. Direct Colors products are designed for DIYers and backed by step-by-step guides, how-to videos, and a free project consultation. Every stain comes as a complete system, so you're never guessing which products work together.
How long does stained concrete last?
Properly sealed and maintained, stained concrete can look great for many years. Acid stains become a permanent part of the slab; water-based stains and dyes stay vibrant when protected by a quality sealer and periodic maintenance.
I'm not sure which stain to choose — what should I do?
Take the quiz at the top of this page to get a recommendation matched to your space and the finish you love, or request a free project consultation and a Direct Colors expert will help you choose.
