It certainly doesn't surprise me. The go on to take decorative concrete outdoors is an all-natural progression of individuals spending additional 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 of the different types of decorative concrete, exterior staining is the most affordable. It also requires the least manpower. But that is a write-up how your company can make sure to pick the right exterior staining product to create the outdoor paradise your clients value the most. As you could have noticed, there are numerous new possibilities, and most deserve their devote this dynamic market.
There has certainly been some confusion, with myself included, on which product is best suited by which application. This is a good time and energy to simplify the staining/coloring process, not merely for you however for your clients as well. Think about this — if the staining process is confusing for people, the installers, are you able to imagine what it is like for the conclusion 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 good qualities and cons of each. In the end is said, you will have to determine what is best for you personally and your business.
Few will argue the fact everything started with acid stains. Acid stains really are a reactive coloring process that penetrates to the porous concrete surface. That is essentially the most permanent of coloring options but acid staining floors is usually limited to eight colors. Now, these colors may 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 kind that loves a challenge, then acid staining is for you.
Acid Stain
Few will argue the fact that all of it started with acid stains. Acid stains really are a reactive coloring process that penetrates into the porous concrete surface. That is essentially the most permanent of coloring options but is generally restricted 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 little bit of concrete by proof final color. Put simply, you can't guarantee the actual color. If you should be the type that loves a challenge, 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 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 simply penetrate into the top when pores of the concrete are open. Strong prep work cleaning the concrete is a must. This stain type will offer additional colors to pick from and may be used inside or out. Water-based stains are growing in popularity but aren't as durable in exterior applications as old-fashioned acid stain. I guess you can say this is actually 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 stained concrete painted.
Sealer maintenance is a must.
Here is what most of the above have in keeping: Regardless of your stain or coloring choice, none will cover cracks or chips. Some existing stains may still be visible, although in a different final color. Prestained concrete must be unsealed, and I will suggest testing the outer lining with a little bit of water to make sure the concrete is porous. Make sure you pressure-wash the surface in order that pores are open and stain-ready. It's usually best to let the outer lining dry overnight before staining. The sealer used to lock in the colour or stain will not like water, so be sure to control sprinklers and potted plants.
Concrete must also have now 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 for their unpredictability. I also sense most states will institute special disposal requirements in the near future.
Regardless, there is undoubtedly the outside stain and color market is growing and will continue to cultivate for many time. All the best and i'd like to know how it goes.
austin stained concrete