Decorative Concrete
Information Library Archive
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ACID-BASED CONCRETE STAINING TIPS & TRICKS:
Planning | Preparation | Application | Finishing & Sealing
Preparation: Overview
There is no concrete surface that is the same as another, anywhere. There are always differences of temperature, mix and water content. That's why it's necessary to identify the substrate and test its suitability for accepting stain before you begin any project. Different substrates require different types of preparation. If the surface is too porous, too dense, or covered with any contaminants, the stain may not penetrate the surface.
Preparation: Layout
Use orange fluorescent chalk to mark the design on the substrate because it rubs or sweeps off easily. Other marking materials, ink or pencil for example, can be difficult to remove and might permanently mark the surface.
Don't confuse yourself by putting more marks on the surface than you need. Mark only the areas you plan to sawcut.
Preparation: Testing the substrate
It's crucial to test and prepare the substrate before beginning any acid stain application. If the surface is too dense or covered with contaminants, the stain won't penetrate.
Before laying out a pattern, test the substrate. If the surface is contaminated, clean it thoroughly before applying any stain.
Use a simple water test to check for absorbency. In most cases, if the substrate darkens and absorbs the water, the substrate that will accept the stain. If the water beads up, there's a coating on the surface that has to be removed.
Determine whether the substrate has any moisture problems. A tape-down test is simple and inexpensive. Tape a piece of 12"x12" visquine or plastic to the surface and leave it for a minimum of 16 hours. If, after the plastic is removed, you find the concrete has darkened or condensation has formed, there's a moisture problem and the surface is not ready to be stained.
Preparation: Surface preparation
The cleaning method depends on how soiled the surface is. At the very minimum, the surface should always be cleaned with soap and water.
Completely remove all coatings, paints, waxes, water repellants, previously applied adhesives and curing membranes by sandblasting or with a mechanical floor machine.
Only uniformly, slip-resistant concrete surfaces, such as broomed, swirled, sandblasted or most imprinted concrete, interior floors are surfaces that should be considered for LITHOCHROME® Chemstain™ Classic. When a flat, interior floor is required, make sure that the surface is finished uniformly so that it won't be slippery. If applying to a flat trowel floor, there are products available that may be added to the final coats of sealer for slip resistance.
Preparation: Patching/Crack Repair
Try to avoid patches. Each patch is cause for concern about compatibility with the substrate surface. If you do have to patch, use the same material for the patch that the slab is made from. Before patching, clean the area you're going to patch and evacuate the area.
Once you've got the right material mix, lay it onto the surface and let it harden the appropriate time. After the patch has set, scrape it flush. When it's dry, take 300-grit sandpaper and smooth it to level it for staining.
Patches may accept stain differently from the rest of the floor. In this case, you may incorporate this difference into your floor design.
Preparation: Do's and Don'ts
Do protect the surrounding areas including landscaping and adjacent surfaces.
Rope off the work area; remove nearby vehicles, and close appropriate sections to traffic.
Wear suitable protective gear, and follow all government regulations, manufacturer's instructions and applicable safety requirements.
Test the sprayer before using it to make sure the stream is flowing well and in the right direction.
Don't use Chemstain to hide surface blemishes or construction errors.
Don't use metal containers or spray bottles for holding the Chemstain solution during application.
Don't use push brooms, rollers or mops for transferring and scrubbing.
Don't step on wet surfaces or allow the Chemstain solution to splash, drip or puddle, unless desired for a color effect.
Don't allow contact with the surface between applications or after the final application until the residue is removed and the surface rinsed.
Continue to Application
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