Acid Staining

The Builder box, Inc. in California has extensive experience with concrete acid stain and polished concrete floors. Once our acid staining and polishing process is complete, you no longer have to be concerned about the acid stains walking off as you do with a sealer or wax application. Acid staining involves two main components, acids, and metallic salts. The acid opens the pores of the concrete allowing the penetration of the metallic salts.

Concrete acid stain happens when the metallic salts chemically interact with the calcium hydroxide in the cement to produce a permanent color change that penetrates the surface. 

Concrete acid stains are limited to eight colors and variations of each. The colors are generally earth tone in nature. Multiple colors can be achieved through a variety of acid staining methods.  Our polished concrete system, along with concrete acid stains, will give the concrete a translucent, permanent, and variegated mottled look that is UV stable. Acid staining is an excellent way to change the color of existing uncolored or colored concrete that has been in place for at least 28 days. 

On older existing concrete construction, it’s important to keep in mind that concrete acid stain is intended to enhance rather than disguise the surface. Acid staining will not mask cracks, blemishes, discoloration, or other flaws. In some cases, that can be an advantage and work well with the design. For example, if you’re going for an aged or rustic look, concrete acid stain can accentuate minor blemishes and cracks and add greater distinction.