How To Stain Concrete Floors With Water Based Stains

By: Tom "The DIY Guy" Wesley

Water-based concrete stains are a great alternative to acid stains. Instead of getting its colors from a chemical reaction between the acid and the minerals in your cement, the water based stain acts more like a dye. Since concrete floors are very porous, the water-based stain is absorbed into the floor, with no need for toxic chemicals. Water based stains give create an opaque appearance, while the acid based stains produce a rich and deep appearance.

Those who are weary of working with an concrete acid stain can get a similar effect with water stains. It is also ideal for exterior surfaces, because you do not risk damaging your lawn as you do with acid. However, the main benefit of working with this type of concrete stain is the wide range of colors that are available. Acid based concrete stains are usually limited to  earth tones, which attempt to mimic the look of expensive stone or marble. With a water based stain you are able to get nearly any color you can imagine, and have the final result be much more consistent.

The process of applying a water-based concrete stain is very similar to the process laid out in our how to stain concrete floors guide. However, when working with a non reactive stain there are a few differences that we will cover in this article.

Before you start you will want to check out our list of concrete staining supplies, and make sure you have everything needed for your specific job.

The first step, after selecting your stain, is to prepare the concrete to be able to accept the stain. Water based concrete stains are opaque, thus more forgiving of blemishes than an acid based stain, but you will still want to get your surface as clean as possible. Fill any cracks, and remove any glue or other gunk on your floor. After your floor is looking clean it is time to seal off the walls and doors (or the border of the area if you are working outside)  with tape and plastic.

Before you start applying the stain make sure to don your protective gear. Then, with a sprayer begin to apply your water based concrete stain in a smooth consistent fashion. Start in the left corner and continue the application in a “typewriter” fashion. After the first coat is on, wait for it to dry (per manufacturer’s instructions) and apply a second coat. Depending on the desired look of your floor there are various techniques for applying the second coat. Additional coats may also be necessary. While the stain is drying it is essential to keep everything off of your surface. Any footprints left in wet stain will be there for good.

Unlike when using an acid based stain it is unnecessary to neutralize the surface, because there is no chemical reaction taking place.

Once all layers are fully dry (this can be up to 24 hours in some cases) it is time to apply a sealer. Check the manufacturer’s recommendation for a sealer, and make sure to use one that is designed to go with your type of stain. Apply the sealer with a paint roller, making sure to not leave any brush strokes behind. Depending on the area being stained you may want to include a slip resistant additive.

Now you know how to stain concrete floors with water based concrete stain. This is an easy and affordable way to change ugly concrete into gorgeous works of art. With the right materials and this guide you can have a newly stained concrete floor by the end of next weekend.