Stain works on a sound slab, new or old, which makes it a strong way to transform an existing patio or interior floor without tearing anything out. The catch is that stain shows everything: the colour follows the surface, so cracks, patches and stains under it will read through. The prep, cleaning and any repair before staining is where a good result is won or lost, and then it has to be sealed to protect the colour.
| What changes | Effect on your price |
|---|---|
| Square footage | The single biggest driver. Work is priced per square foot, so measure before you call. |
| Acid or water-based stain | Acid stain reacts for a mottled, permanent, one-of-a-kind colour. Water-based stain gives more consistent, controllable colour and a wider palette. They price differently. |
| New slab or existing | Staining an existing slab needs cleaning and stripping of any old sealer first. Stain will not take on a dirty or sealed surface. |
| Prep and repair | Stain follows the surface, so cracks, patches and contamination read through. The prep and any repair before staining is where the result is won. |
| Number of colours and effects | A single colour is the baseline. Layering, a second colour for depth, or borders each add hand work. |
| Sealer | Stain has to be sealed to protect and deepen the colour, and outdoors that seal is maintained over time. |
Stain follows the surface, so we check the slab for cracks, patches and contamination and tell you honestly what will read through, because the character of stained concrete is partly its imperfections.
The surface is thoroughly cleaned and any coatings or sealers are removed, because stain cannot penetrate a sealed or dirty slab. Repairs that need to be invisible are done now.
Acid stain is applied and allowed to react with the concrete, or water-based stain is applied to build the colour. Layering and a second colour for depth happen at this stage.
Acid stain is neutralised and the residue rinsed off so the final colour shows true. The slab is left clean and dry before sealing.
A sealer locks in the colour, deepens it, and protects the surface. Interior floors may get a finish coat for sheen; exterior work gets a seal built for freeze-thaw and traffic.
Stained Concrete across Winston-Salem, Kernersville, Walkertown, Rural Hall, Union Cross, Pfafftown, Clemmons, Lewisville, Stanleyville, Belews Creek, King, Germanton, Oak Ridge, Colfax, Summerfield, Stokesdale, Wallburg, Midway and Welcome.