Concrete Dreams Come True

The popularity of stamped concrete overlay has continued to grow with the development of alternative decorative concrete techniques used in conjunction with the stamped concrete overlay. Using acrylic or latex stains has become a great way to achieve the color that you want in either your business or in your home. This type of stain creates a natural look that emulates wood or paint. There are many different colors, shades, and tints. No matter what color or shade is used, you have control over the amount of transparency. With more layers you can create a darker color but with fewer layers you can alter the opaqueness of the product’s results. Relying on clean concrete surfaces, using an acrylic or latex stain means that a deep bond is created. There is no wash down phase required after the application of an acrylic or a latex stain; however, the application can take place through mopping, ragging, or rolling the stain onto the concrete surface. These stains are a single color, as opposed to the multi-faceted outcomes of chemical reactions; therefore, to achieve the desired realism and depth, you need to focus on adding multiple layers and combining multiple colors.

Another great way to complement your decorative concrete or stamped concrete overlay is through the use of an aggregate finish or an acid stain. With an acid stain, there is a chemical reaction taking place which means that the color hues and depth will vary based on the reaction between the stain and the concrete. Therefore, if you have different slabs of concrete upon which you are applying the stain, then you will find different levels of color on each slab.