It surely doesn't surprise me. The proceed to take decorative concrete outdoors is an all natural progression of individuals spending more time, well, outdoors. Our “hydration society†is into exercise, meditation, prayer and just outright healthy outdoor living that draws us to private outside sanctuaries.
Of all the several types of decorative concrete, exterior staining is probably the most affordable. In addition it requires minimal manpower. But this really is an article on how your organization can make sure you pick the best exterior staining product to produce the outdoor paradise your clients value the most. As you may have noticed, there are many new solutions, and most deserve their invest this dynamic market.
There's certainly been some confusion, with myself included, on which product works best in which application. This is a good time for you to simplify the staining/coloring process, not just for you but for your clients as well. Look at this — if the staining process is confusing for people, the installers, is it possible to imagine what it is like for the end user? The thing the finish user knows is that she wants a nice-looking project colored to her taste. This really is best achieved when left in the hands of professionals. That is you, by the way.
Let's take a look at what's designed for exterior staining and the professionals and cons of each. In the end is said, you will need to determine what's best for you personally and your business.
Few will argue the truth that it all started with acid stains. Acid stains certainly are a reactive coloring procedure that penetrates in to the porous concrete surface. This is probably the most permanent of most coloring options but is generally limited to eight colors. Now, these colors can be blended, diluted, streaked and tweaked to generate many coloring options. The acid stains will chemically react differently to each bit of concrete by evidence of final color. In other words, you can't guarantee the actual color. If you should be the type that loves difficult, then acid staining is for you.
Acid Stain
Few will argue the fact everything started with acid stains. Acid stains are a reactive coloring procedure that penetrates in to the porous concrete surface. This is probably the most permanent of most coloring options but is generally limited to eight colors. Now, these colors may be blended, diluted, streaked and tweaked to produce many coloring options. The acid stains will chemically react differently to each piece of concrete by evidence of final color. Put simply, you can't guarantee the precise color. If you are the sort that loves challenging, then acid staining is for you.
Pros:
Very durable connection with, and penetration into, the concrete canvas.
Inexpensive to purchase.
Same stain can be used indoors and out.
Gives a translucent appearance to the concrete surface, unlike painted or topical stains.
Extremely timeless-looking and old-world.
Cons:
Requires ongoing maintenance through resealing.
Limited colors, with some turning black from staining floors exposure to moisture.
Unpredictable when it comes to exact color.
Must be neutralized before sealing.
Stain is a toxic material that requires care when handling.
Looks different in exterior and interior projects.
Wet edge must be kept during installation, and some thicker stains may show brush marks.
Waterbased stains
These stains are nonreactive and will only penetrate into the outer lining when pores of staining the concrete are open. Strong prep work cleaning the concrete is just a must. This stain type will offer many more colors to pick from and may be used inside or out. Water-based stains are growing in popularity but are not as durable in exterior applications as old-fashioned acid stain. I suppose you are able to say this is the new and improved version of old-fashioned acid stain. Select a good sealer to lock in stain and make sure to remind your clients of the importance of resealing.
Pros:
Very user-friendly. Nontoxic.
Many more color options than acid stains.
Will not blacken like acid stain.
Seems to be easier to build up or add color to color than with some other stain forms.
Practically endless color effects.
Less residue to clean up between staining and sealing.
Cons:
Not as durable in exterior applications as acid stain.
Will show the same variegated or translucent coloring as acid stain, although not as deep.
Tends to be more expensive.
Can look a little painted.
Sealer maintenance is a must.
This is what every one of the above have in common: Regardless of one's stain or coloring choice, none will cover cracks or chips. Some existing stains can always be visible, although in a different final color. Prestained concrete should be unsealed, and I suggest testing the surface with a tiny amount of water to ensure the concrete is porous. Be sure to pressure-wash the outer lining so that pores are open and stain-ready. It's usually better to let the surface dry overnight before staining. The sealer used to lock in along with or stain will not like water, so make sure you control sprinklers and potted plants.
Concrete also needs to have been left to remedy for no less than 30 days before staining.
A final note about staining exterior work: I rarely used acid stains, solely because of their unpredictability. I also sense most states will institute special disposal requirements in the near future.
Regardless, there's without doubt the exterior stain and color market is growing and will continue to cultivate for many time. Best of luck and let me know how it goes.
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