The Best Concrete Garage Floor Stain

Concrete floor stains make your garage floors durable

By Robert Ferguson

Photo by iStockphoto.com

Often overlooked, the garage floor endures more punishment than most other floors combined in a household. You can remedy that situation by applying concrete stain to your floors. Concrete stain protects and beautifies concrete floors and other types of substrates by penetrating the material and reacting chemically with the lime. The color options are available in a limited array of subtle earth tones such as tans, browns, terracottas and soft blue-greens. Learn how to select the right stain by following the tips below.

Considerations

Staining a concrete floor requires a certain degree of skill depending on the complexity of the project. It is imperative to understand the process from the prep work all the way through to the final stages of sealing. Once applied, the stain is permanent. If you have any doubts at all, hire an experienced, professional applicator to achieve a professional result.

Best products

The five most common types of concrete stain are acid, water-based, concrete dye, integral color and dry-shaker color hardener. Your project's individual characteristics and the results you are trying to achieve will determine the best stain for you. For performance, the acid stain, integral color and dry-shaker color hardener stand out. For ease of application, clean-up and color range, the water-based stain and concrete dye top the list.

Tools

Applying an acid-based stain to concrete is hazardous and best left to professionals. It requires the use of specific tools designed for this particular project. Professionals use acid-resistant brushes and special spraying equipment along with mops, rollers and squeegees. Acid stain must be applied with a metal-free, low-pressure sprayer, which can corrode. Water-based stains and concrete dye are applied with a low-pressure sprayer, roller, brush or sponge.

Safety

Certain safety precautions are required when using these particular products. The stains contain corrosives, airborne powders, and hazardous vapors that can be flammable. Wear impervious gloves, boots, eye protection and a proper respirator during application. Follow the manufacturer's recommended safety precautions, application instructions and warnings to the letter.

Benefits

Stained concrete floors provide a unique and beautiful finish to your garage. The floors won't chip or peel and they resist fading. They are easy to clean and usually only require regular sweeping. Concrete is one of the most durable products around, and with regular maintenance a properly stained and sealed garage floor can offer years of beauty.