The two major types of concrete stain available to commercial and consumer buyers are acid based and acrylic based. Depending on the effects that the decorator is looking for, both types of concrete stain definitely have unique benefits. The best concrete stain colors depend mainly only the buyer's choice of what color they want to decorate with and how much of an effect or influence the concrete stain will have on the rest of the decorations in the home.
Acid based concrete stains are known for a higher gloss, yet a less consistent tone in the color schemes. If properly applied to a clean surface, acid based concrete stain colors will be permanent and not chip off forever. The chemical property of the acid based solution actually changes the makeup of the concrete to take on whatever color the acid stain is. Unfortunately, there seems to be less of an available range of colors for acid based concrete stain, leaving buyers with fewer color scheme options.
Acrylic based concrete stain colors are quite popular due to the wide variety of color choices available. Also, there are far less reactive components in the solution which makes application much easier with less safety concerns. One complaint about acrylic concrete stain is the lack of exotic variation in the tone and appearance after the stain is applied. Acrylic concrete stain colors tend to be a bit opaque and uniform because the concrete stain actually seeps into the open pour of the concrete and coats them, rather than changing the surface color and chemistry, like acid based concrete stain does.
Depending on which type of concrete stain is chosen, concrete can be stained in almost any color, shade or pattern imaginable. The concrete as a blank canvas may seem like a good place to get creative and bold with home design, but be aware that concrete stains are for most intents and purposes, permanent. The decision on what colors and patterns used while staining concrete should be done with a long-term mind-set. Tastes may change, so it is advisable to use neutral concrete stain colors and smooth patterns that will go with most decorative styles.
Regardless of what colors or patterns are chosen, both acrylic and acid based concrete stains will last for a very long time as long if they are applied correctly and maintained well.
Published by JR Moreau
JR Moreau is a freelance writer of several disciplines, including but not limited to: print/digital journalism, blogging, marketing, branding & pr. Working full time at a marketing analysis software company,... View profile
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