How to Acid Stain Cement Slabs
Acid staining a concrete slab can transform dull, gray concrete into a magnificent work of art. The minerals and acid in the stain react with the cement, causing the color of the cement slab to change. Acid stain is available in a variety of tints and can be applied rather quickly. It is important to note that if the cement slab has a sealer on it, or if the cement has been etched with acid or washed with muriatic acid, it cannot be acid stained. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Trisodium phosphate
- Water
- Stiff brush
- Concrete patch
- Putty knife
- Bucket
- Plastic pump sprayer
- Stiff-bristled broom
- Baking soda
- Nylon scrub brush
- Wet vac
Instructions
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Properly clean and prepare the cement slab for the acid stain. The surface should be cleaned with a solution of one part trisodium phosphate and four parts water. Scrub the cement with a stiff brush and the cleaning solution, then rinse with plain water. Repair any cracks or holes in the cement with concrete patch, and scrape off any imperfections with a putty knife. Allow the cement to dry out completely prior to applying the stain.
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2
Mix the acid stain according to the manufacturer's instructions. It is best to pour the stain into a bucket for mixing, as most acid stains require adding water. Transfer the mixture into a plastic pump sprayer. Do not use a sprayer containing metal parts as the metal and acid will react negatively with one another.
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Spray the acid stain onto the cement slab working from left to right, then right to left. Hold the nozzle of the sprayer about six inches from the surface.
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Have someone follow behind you with a stiff-bristled broom to scrub the sprayed-on stain into the cement. The broom should not just push the stain around. Rather, the idea is to scrub it into the cement using a circular pattern.
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Apply a second coat of the stain with the sprayer to remove any brush marks. Do not have anyone follow behind the sprayer with a broom for the second coat. A second coat is not necessary if you are happy with the appearance of the first coat. It is a matter of preference as to whether or not to apply a second coat.
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Allow the stain to dry completely according to the manufacturer's recommended drying time. Clean the cement slab with a mixture of baking soda and water, using one to two tablespoons of baking soda per gallon of water. This mixture will neutralize the stain and remove any debris from the cement.
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Scrub the solution into the cement slab using a nylon scrub brush. Go over the area with a wet vac to remove the excess solution. Follow up by cleaning the cement slab with plain water.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear protective eye and face gear and clothing that covers your arms and legs. This will protect your body and skin from the dangers of the acid stain.
