How to Stain a Concrete Basement Floor

Boring basement floors can be perked up with acrylic stains. Staining a concrete basement floor is a two-step process. First you must remove any sealer that has been applied to the concrete, then you stain the floor. Staining the floor in a basement is a project for a warm and dry day or with a dehumidifier running; moisture is the enemy of acrylic stain application and many basements absorb moisture. Stained concrete gives a more welcoming and finished look to your basement.

Things You'll Need

• Citrus degreaser
• Floor polisher
• Shop vac
• Scrub brush
• String mop
• Etching solution
• Plastic sprayer
• Acrylic stain
• Paint roller
• Paintbrush
• Water

Instructions

Removing the Sealer

1. Apply citrus degreaser to a 6-inch square area of the basement floor with your scrub brush. Allow the degreaser to sit on the concrete for 30 minutes.

2. Drip water from the mop onto the area where you applied the degreaser. Use the floor polisher on the area to scrub it completely.

3. Vacuum the excess water with the shop vac. Repeat the above steps until the sealer has been removed from the entire basement floor.

4. Mop the entire floor liberally with clean water once all sealer is removed. Allow the area to dry for 24 hours or until it's completely dry.

Applying the Concrete Stain

1. Apply the etching solution to the floor with a plastic sprayer. Make sure the solution evenly covers the floor. Etching solution is available at most home improvement stores.

2. Allow the solution to stay on the floor for 20 minutes or until it stops bubbling. Mop the floor with clean water and use the shop vac to suck up any additional water on the surface. Allow the floor to dry.

3. Apply the stain to the corners and the edges of the room, first using the paintbrush. Use the roller to apply the stain to the rest of the floor until it's covered. Allow the stain to dry for 3 to 4 hours, then apply a second coat of stain.

4. Let the second coat dry for an additional 3 to 4 hours. Mop the floor thoroughly.

Tips & Warnings

• Drip some water on the concrete floor. If it beads up, not all of the sealer is removed.

• Cover the walls and baseboards to avoid damage while removing the sealer and applying the stain. Use a respirator or work in a well-ventilated area when using etching solution.

Resources

• A resource that covers maintenace and finishing of all concrete surfaces in your home.