Applying concrete sealer and stain to a cement area is important for many reasons. The sealer will help protect the floor of the surface you are adding it to, such as the floor of a garage, or on a new patio deck. The stain will give your surface the finishing touch, and you can choose from many beautiful colors to complement your house. It can also add value to your home. Applying these two is the first step to a beautifully protected floor.
Applying Concrete Sealer
The sealer applied to your concrete floors will protect them from many things that can happen. This includes dampness, stains, and any type of damage that may occur to the steel underneath the floor. When you put work into your concrete floors, you can rest assured that you will enjoy them for many years. You will need a few things before starting your project. Choose clothes that can get dirty and ruined, and make sure to wear protective eyewear. Purchase gloves to wear while applying the concrete sealer, as well. You will then need to purchase a paint roller or a garden sprayer that comes with a pump. The next step is finding your concrete sealer.
Visit your local hardware store to purchase concrete sealer materials. If you are unsure of what to buy, talk to a salesman who can help you make your decision. Many types of concrete sealers are available nowadays, especially in the bigger warehouse stores. Concrete sealers can be bought ready to apply for your home, and they come in three different varieties. These are urethane, epoxy, and acrylic. Urethane concrete sealer helps the concrete stop abrasive action against it. Acrylic protects the concrete floor from penetration, as does epoxy. However, epoxy is a stronger substance. Talk to an expert if you are unsure of what is best for your floor.
After you have bought your concrete sealer, it will be time to prepare your floor. Do so by cleaning the area thoroughly by using a high-pressure power washer. Soap and water will suffice for cleaning concrete. This helps remove all the dirt that collects on the surface. Allow to dry completely. You will then etch the surface of the concrete with either vinegar or a muriatic acid solution, which can be bought in hardware stores. Combine the vinegar with equal parts of water, or if using the muriatic acid, read the instructions on the jug. Using a sprayer, wash the concrete floors again, followed by a thorough rinse of clear, clean water. This whole process helps remove any lime that has collected on the surface of the concrete construction area.
Use your paintbrush or your sprayer to apply the concrete sealer onto the surface. Follow the directions on the can of sealer that you purchased, as each type will have a different selection of directions. Follow them carefully so you achieve the best finish possible. Carefully apply the concrete sealer that you have chosen evenly, and then allow it to dry completely. Do not allow anyone on it until it is totally dry. Depending on the type you use, this may take from one day up to a week. As usual, read the instructions for drying time carefully. You may find that you need a second coat of the concrete sealer. Again, check the can for more information.
Applying Concrete Stain
After you have applied concrete sealer and it has completely set and dried, you can move on to the staining portion of your project. Concrete stains are made up of liquid that consists of water, acid, and mineral salts. Many people choose to use stain on their concrete since concrete is generally a very drab and boring material. Stain can dramatically improve almost any concrete area when applied correctly. Some people choose to apply a different pattern or texture into the cement when it is first poured, so when the stain is applied, you have a unique look for your floor.
Before beginning your staining project, gather up the materials you will need. You can find these at any hardware store or super center that sells home construction supplies. You will need painter’s tape if you decide to tape off different borders or make patterns in your stain. Purchase plastic sheets to protect any areas that you need to, such as furniture or carpet. You will need a good, wide paintbrush that is resistant to acid, or a paint roller set. Finally, purchase the concrete staining set that you desire. You will also need water when you begin.
Start by preparing the area of the concrete you will be working on, covering anything you need to with the plastic sheets. Also use these to prevent any spills. Make sure the surface you will be staining is clean and free of all dirt and debris. Try and remove any type of stain, such as grease or other discolorations, as the concrete stain will only cover them, not remove them completely. After the area is clean, you can start applying the concrete stain in whatever manner you prefer - either by spray, roller, or paintbrush. When you use a sprayer, the stain will come out in a lighter, more diffused pattern. An acid-resistant paintbrush will yield a deep and rich coat of stain. Once the first coat is dry, you may want to apply a second coat for a darker look. Some people even go for a third - the preference is yours.
After the stain is dried, you will need to remove any of the acidic residues. To do so, you will prepare baking soda with a gallon of water, as directed on the concrete stain jug. Pour this mix all over the concrete. Brush off any residue found on the surface, and use a wet vacuum if you have one to pull up any remaining debris. This process can then be repeated using just water. Use a dry mop to clean off any remaining residue.