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Best Concrete Stain – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

by Troy Clark Last Updated: February 2, 2019

Also referred to as a sealer, concrete stain is used to extend the lifespan or restore the aesthetic value of concrete surfaces. This means that picking the best concrete stain and a proper preparation of the concrete surface will ensure you get the best results.

With the many brands of concrete stains in the market, finding the best concrete stain for your surface can be a challenge. With the right guidance, however, you can be sure to get one that is perfect for your concrete surface. In this review, we show you how to pick the right stain for your surface.

Best Concrete Stain in March, 2021

PRODUCT NAMESIZESQ FT PER GALLON*BASED ON 
VIVID Acid Stain Walnut
(Editor`s Choice)
1 Gallon200-300Acid Check price
Kemiko Stone Tone (Garden Gold)1 Gallon400-800Acid Check price
VIVID Acid Stain Coffee1 Gallon200-300Acid Check price
VIVID Acid Stain Mahogany1 Gallon200-300Acid Check price
Acid Stain DIY Kit4x1 Gallon of each250Acid Check price
AConcrete Stain, Charcoal32 ounce400-2000Water Check price
Concrete Acid Stain Brown Mosaic1 Gallon200Acid Check price
*Coverage is approximate and depends on surface, porosity, temperature and method of application.

1. VIVID Acid Stain Walnut – Best All-round Stain

This acid-based stain from Concrete Coatings is manufactured specially for those who want a total transformation of their concrete surfaces. This is because it colors the concrete surface to bring out an elegant and variegated outlook. Once it dries up, you can be contented that you have the best concrete surface in your neighborhood.

The colors produced in each part of the concrete surface are distinctive with multi-colored intensities and are captivated into becoming a permanent part of your concrete surface. In fact, the VIVID Acid Stain can make over your ordinary concrete surface into an opulent look of marble or granite. Due to the nature of acid-based stains, however, color is not guaranteed.

Since there are numerous variables that come into play on the concrete surface, the VIVID Acid Stain will have a different distinct color on every surface it is applied on. In fact, the ability to produce a unique appearance on different surfaces is one of the several design benefits of using the acid stain. However, it is advisable to make a demonstration on a sample of the actual surface on which the stain will be applied in order to determine the suitability and the color it will give after application.
After application, this stain reacts with the minerals in the concrete surface that has cured for about 28 days. Additionally, it penetrates the top layers of the concrete surface although it won’t chip, crack, or peel the surface. As a result, you don’t have to worry about getting cracks on your concrete surface after applying this stain.

If you are looking forward to transforming your concrete surface with an excellent stain, then the VIVID Acid Stain might be your best choice.

Pros
  • It penetrates surfaces effectively with full strength
  • Easy to use
  • Doesn’t chip, crack, or peel concrete
  • It produces variegated color
Cons
  • The color outlook is not guaranteed

2. Kemiko Stone Tone Concrete Stain (Garden Gold) – Best Concrete Acid Stain

This single component reactive stain endeavors to change an ordinary concrete surface into an elegant surface with marble or glazed resemblance. This stain can be ideal if you want a luxurious looking floor. As an acid-based concrete stain, it provides a decorative and a low-maintenance concrete floor finish.

This stain is ideal for areas such as walkways, driveways, patios, a dining area, and a rock work among other interior and exterior concrete surfaces that you desire to transform into a high-quality yet cost-effective color to improve your floor outlook.

This Stone Tone Concrete Stain is uniquely formulated with chemical compounds that effectively bond metallic ions with the lime elements in the concrete surface to bring out a variety of permanent colors. With this, the Stone Tone Stain is able to transform your ordinary concrete floor into a luxurious floor at an amazingly cheap price.
Application of this stain, however, is only effective if it follows a thorough cleaning of the intended concrete surface or plaster materials. The surface must also contain enough cement or lime for effective color reaction.

To apply it, you can use a stiff or medium bristle brush even though a plastic garden sprayer is the best method of applying the stain on your concrete floor. Owing to the chemical make-up of this stain, it is advisable to clean and rinse any acidic stain on the concrete surface before application.

After the application, the stain will effectively react with the minerals present in the cemented floor to produce the natural feel and look of the floor or stone. Each of the concrete surfaces, however, absorbs the stain in different degrees of intensity to create spectacular, multi-hued color variations that make even the uneven surfaces to appear flawlessly aged. Regardless of what you are working on, the Stone Tone Stains blends in to improve any setting.

We recommend this Stone Tone Stain to people looking to stain a variety of surfaces in their homes to bring out a luxurious look both in the interior and exterior surfaces of their home.

Pros
  • Available in a variety of colors
  • Requires low maintenance after application
  • Produces a luxurious look on the floor surface
Cons
  • Requires thorough preparation of the concrete surface to be applied

3. VIVID Acid Stain Coffee – Best Stain for Driveways and Garage Floor

This is a yet another great acid stain for Concrete surfaces because it is capable of bringing out the natural variegated appearance of a concrete surface. If you are planning to transform your driveway but do not know which stain to use, this one might be the best option for you. This VIVID Acid Stain features a high-quality formulation that delivers an average penetration to bond with the minerals in the concrete, thus making the stain strong and durable. The efficient penetration also makes the stain to blend effectively so that it doesn’t chip, fade, or peel off after sometimes.

As the best stain for driveways, it penetrates the concrete surface at varying degrees of intensity to produce equally unique colors while evenly blending to become a permanent part of your driveways and pool decks. It actually produces unique colors that are also striking to the concrete slabs.

Bearing in mind that the key to an effective acid staining is a thoroughly cleaned surface, which means that it is important for you to clean the floor you intend to stain by scrubbing with plenty of water and powered floor-buffing machine. However, don’t use hydrochloric acid to clean the surface prior to staining.If you want a clean and spectacularly stained floor, then this could be the stain for you. You, however, must bear in mind that the result is also determined by how you prepare the surface and your application techniques.
Pros
  • Easy penetration and strong binding ability
  • Color-forming is dependent on the surface
  • High-quality to minimize peeling, chipping, or cracking
Cons
  • A very toxic stain that needs great care during application

4. VIVID Acid Stain Mahogany – Best Easy to Use

This VIVID Acid Stain -1 Gal – Mahogany from Concrete Coating is manufactured to deliver the best-variegated color to concrete surfaces. If you fancy a luxurious mahogany outlook on your patio and other concrete surfaces around and inside your home, look no further than this acidic stain. It is formulated to penetrate the top layer of your concrete to strongly bond with the minerals inside the concrete in order to bring out not only a durable color for your surface but also an excellent variegated appearance. The strong binding with the concrete components makes it difficult to crack, chip, or peel even when exposed to extreme conditions.

Since it is an acid-based stain, it requires an adequate preparation of the concrete surface. Before application, thoroughly clean the surface and get rid of any acidic stain on the floor. A clean surface ensures the stain penetrates easily and evenly on the concrete for excellent binding.
Once applied, a variety of colors is produced that are dependent on the intensity of penetration and binding with the concrete material. This makes the surface look unique and multi-colored. We highly recommend this stain since it is easy to use and produces a super luxurious appearance on the surfaces applied.
Pros
  • Easy application
  • Durable
  • Excellent finish
Cons
  • It is toxic, be sure to take safety precautions during handling and application.

5. Acid Stain DIY Kit – Best DIY Stain

If you intend to stain your concrete all by yourself, then Acid Stain DIY Kit is the perfect choice for you. This Acid Stain comes with a kit aimed at providing the customer with the requisite instructions and products necessary for completing an excellent stain application. The kit comes with an EnduraColor Reactive Concrete Stain, cleaner, sealer, neutralizer, and complete instructions for acid staining. As a result, you don’t have to hire a painter to get the staining done. With it, you can save the money you could otherwise have used to hire a professional.

In order to have a proper application exercise, it is advisable to use a surface conditioner or coating stripper. First, ensure the concrete surface is cleaned well with cleaners or a degreaser and then rinse it with a neutralizer. Make sure all the acidic and chemical stains are removed before application.

It is important to note that the application outcome will depend on the porosity, the texture of the concrete surface, its age, techniques of application and the number of applications.

We recommend this kit to people who love the experience and satisfaction of staining their homes all by themselves.

Pros
  • Easy to apply
  • Comes with preparation and application instructions for DIYers
  • It is cost-effective for labor
Cons
  • Very toxic

6. Concrete Stain Concentrate Just Add Water, Charcoal – Best Water Based Concrete Stain

This concrete stain is designed and manufactured for people who want to make dazzling concrete surfaces in the shortest and easiest manner. It is a water-based stain that is formulated with quality and fresh ingredients that are ideal for concrete floors, pool decks, driveways, patios, and any other concrete surface you intend to make stunning.

In order to have the best and durable results, it is advisable to thoroughly clean the concrete surface. This is because cleaning the surface opens up pores for easy penetration and for stronger binding with the concrete elements. Since this is a water-based stain, there is no need to clean up after application. This is because it leaves no residue or chemicals that will necessitate a clean-up. The stain can also be ideal for wood staining, statuary painting, art and craft, and faux finishes.

This stain is available in a wide range of colors to choose from and is eco-friendly, robust professional grade, water-based, and pigmented concrete stain that steadfastly bonds with the open pores of both interior and exterior concrete surfaces. Once applied, it produces different colors that range from translucent to opaque depending on the amount of water you added.

We recommend the stain to people who want a great water-based stain for their concrete floors and surfaces.

Pros
  • Easy to apply
  • Produces a great variety of colors
  • High-quality formulation
Cons
  • Color may appear a bit different from the actual stain

7. Concrete Acid Stain Brown Mosaic – Best Concrete Stain for Patio and Pool Deck

If you are looking for a stain that is formulated specifically for professional use, then Concrete Acid Stain | Brown Mosaic is ideal for you. This professional grade product is manufactured for use on both exterior and interior concrete surfaces.

Since this is an acid stain, it provides you with a stronger bonding with the concrete elements even on the toughest surface condition. The strong binding makes the stain permanent, thus giving your surface a durable, marvelous, and stunning outlook.

The formulation is of high quality with a natural marbling effect. It is also UV stable, which means that it can stay sharp for a long time even under strong sunlight when applied on exterior concrete surfaces. Even the color remains natural without any sign of fading.

It comes with detailed application instructions for easy application process while aiming to achieve the best staining outcome. Just like other acid-based stains, it also requires thorough cleaning of the concrete surface before application. After application, proper flushing of the residue is important in order to remain with a clean concrete surface.

If you are a professional stainer, then we recommend using this concrete acid stain for your projects.

Pros
  • It is durable
  • Great for both exterior and interior applications
  • Produces a natural marbling effect
Cons
  • Might produce a slightly different color

Buyer’s Guide

Getting the best concrete stain is the first step toward making a decorative outlook on any concrete surface. In the market, you will find all manner of concrete stains. This means that you will find poor concrete stains that offer a thin layer and great concrete stains that provide the change you desired on your concrete surface.

By knowing quality-controlling factors, you will be able to identify the best stains that will change the outlook of your concrete surface once and for all. In this regard, here are the factors to consider when shopping for the best stain.

Formulation

The type of formulation is possibly the first thing you ought to consider. Go for the solvent as well as the acid-based formulations since they are the ones that provide the quality and strength of stickiness with the concrete surface. It is also worth noting that water-based concrete stains are also great even though they are not as powerful as the acid-based stains.

Penetration

A more penetrating concrete stain is able to reach deep into the concrete pores to make an even greater bonding. However, excess stain penetration increases the cost of application. As a result, make sure the penetration that occurs is just enough to provide the desired colors.

Color Density

The color density of the stain you intend to buy is also an important consideration. Achieving a good and dense color for your surface is one of the most important things during application. The color density is responsible for either producing a decent or a poor appearance depending on the concrete surface condition and whether the application process is efficient enough.

Toxic Ingredients

Concrete stains certainly have various toxic compounds. However, it is worth noting that acid-based concrete stains come with more toxins. If you wish to buy an acid-based stain, therefore, it is important that you apply and store it with extra care. Water-based stains, on the other hand, are non-toxic thus very safe to use.

Application

The ease of application is also an important aspect that you should consider when buying a concrete stain. Although the application process of concrete stains seems to be similar for all products, you may consider choosing a stain that needs the least preparation procedure prior to application. Moreover, make sure to check the compatibility of the stain you intend to buy over the concrete materials you intend to apply it on.

Is it a new concrete surface or old one, is it contaminated with grease and dirt, or does it have patches? Those are some of the questions you ought to ask yourself before spending money on a particular stain.

Dilution

How easy is it to dilute the stain? Some products like acid-based stains come ready for use while others like water-based stains need to be combined with other components like base resin and pigment. Stains may require to be diluted with muriatic acid or water, especially if you intend to lighten the tone as opposed to using the stain in its full strength. Whatever dilution product you use, however, it is important to stir or shake it well before application to ensure the pigment is evenly distributed.

How long is the drying time?

The drying time is an important consideration since it determines how you plan your projects. If the drying time is long, you might need to start with the sections that you need to open for use as soon as possible. In most cases, the chemical stains take the longest time to dry because they have to give the stain more time to react. The stain residue is then rinsed so that the surface is allowed to dry before applying a sealer. On the other hand, water-based stains take a shorter time to dry and no rinsing is needed.

How much cleaning is needed?

You also need to consider how much cleanup is required after application. Acid-based stains require a thorough cleaning after application in order to neutralize the surface and to remove any stain residue that might be there. As a result, you also need to buy a neutralizing solution to clean the surface before rinsing it with clean water. The extra requirements might prove a bit expensive. Moreover, high precaution is required when cleaning because acid-based stains contain toxic elements.

On the other hand, water-based stains don’t need any neutralizing solution when cleaning, which makes its cleaning simple and easy. Simply clean the surface using mild soap and water. In fact, there is no need of cleaning a concrete surface after using a water-based stain since the stain is absorbed into the surface effectively. As you can see, the extent of cleaning is dependent on which type of stain you use.

Conclusion

Although concrete stains enhance the appearance and maintain your concrete surface, they might also come with health risks, especially if you are using the acid-base stains that contain toxic compounds. The best concrete stain will also have an easy application procedure.

Even though all the listed stains are top rated and reasonably priced, the right one for your needs will depend on your preference or professional requirement. With the right concrete stain, you will definitely achieve the outlook you want for your concrete surface.

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1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (10 votes, average: 3.70 out of 5)
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Troy Clark

About Troy Clark

Troy Clark is the Editor at ProfyHome.com. He used to be the owner of a local construction and service company with over 10 years experience in the trade. He now enjoys thoroughly researching DIY tools and materials as well as publishing guides to help readers.

Comments

  1. AvatarKyle T. says

    March 5, 2019 at 3:37 am

    The concrete in my work building just looks absolutely horrendous. Like, there is nothing wrong with the concrete or foundation in itself. It’s just the coloration that’s happened over the years that makes the floor look disgusting all the time. For a situation like this do you recommend me getting just dark color to cover it or is there a heavy duty cleaner I should try first?

    Reply
    • Troy ClarkTroy Clark says

      March 10, 2019 at 5:40 pm

      It is impossible to say unequivocally that it is better suited for your case. Acid stain gives different effects on different surfaces, depending on many factors. The pleasure of the result largely depends on your personal preferences. If I were you, I would first carefully prepare the old concrete for painting and then choose the acid stain with the color that you personally like best.

      Reply
  2. AvatarHarley V. says

    March 5, 2019 at 4:46 am

    I have heard nothing but good things about the VIVID Acid Stain Walnut so your review really sealed the deal. I’ll be purchasing this one for our work concrete flooring. Does it come in any other stain colors from any other retailers?

    Reply
    • Troy ClarkTroy Clark says

      March 10, 2019 at 5:46 pm

      Yes you can find different colors
      different colors

      Reply
      • AvatarEmmiJade says

        March 13, 2019 at 2:31 am

        That turquoise color is beautiful! I think I’d like to look into getting that for the area around my pool. Do you think that would work for a pool?

        Reply
        • Troy ClarkTroy Clark says

          March 13, 2019 at 8:24 pm

          of course, you can use it on the concrete around the pool

          Reply
  3. AvatarConnor D. says

    March 25, 2019 at 1:44 pm

    Why are there so many different version of concrete stain!? This is honestly making my job a whole lot harder. I’m supposed to be purchasing the new stain in bulk for my buddies company but honestly, don’t know if I’m actually the right guy for the job. I don’t want to mess this up.

    Reply
  4. AvatarLillian G. says

    April 25, 2019 at 4:15 pm

    Acid-based stain sounds really harmful. Is it harmful to the skin or eyes at all? When applying it are you supposed to wear protective gear like goggles, a mask, or gloves?

    Reply
    • Troy ClarkTroy Clark says

      April 26, 2019 at 6:58 pm

      Yes, it is really dangerous. You must use protective equipment and follow the instructions. However, it is the acid stain that is the most durable and reliable.

      Reply
  5. AvatarAmy R. says

    May 24, 2019 at 9:58 am

    When the stain had a specific color to it like walnut, is that regulated to any standard so that the color walnut for one brand is the same for another? Or do they go by their own rules?

    Reply
    • Troy ClarkTroy Clark says

      May 25, 2019 at 7:16 pm

      No, there are no standards. Moreover, the end result varies from your concrete.

      Reply
  6. AvatarPreston C. says

    August 7, 2019 at 10:19 pm

    If you’re dealing with a toxic stain how do you go about protecting yourself? I’m assuming you need to wear gloves and a mask but is there anything else you need to do?

    Reply
    • Troy ClarkTroy Clark says

      August 10, 2019 at 9:31 pm

      Be sure to use safety glasses, gloves, and a ventilation mask. An activated carbon respirator may be your best protection against fumes, especially when painting concrete in places with poor ventilation, such as basements. However, even basements should be ventilated as best as possible, using fans and open windows to circulate and supply fresh air.
      Also consider wearing a long sleeve shirt and trousers in combination with knee pads, in case you have to stand on your hands and knees.

      Reply
  7. AvatarRiley T. says

    August 16, 2019 at 9:22 am

    You say that the VIVID Acid Stain Mahogany can produce a multitude of colors depending on how far it penetrates the concrete. Wouldn’t that just make the surface look bad and like it was a hack job?

    Reply
    • Troy ClarkTroy Clark says

      August 17, 2019 at 7:22 pm

      If you use a concrete stain, then you must understand – that the result will always be somewhat unpredictable. This is a chemical reaction of acid and concrete. And the result always depends on a bunch of factors. If you don’t want to be disappointed, just look for examples of using concrete acid stains on the Internet.

      Reply
  8. AvatarJason F. says

    August 19, 2019 at 11:58 am

    What do you mean when you say that the color outlook is not guaranteed for the VIVID Acid Stain Walnut?

    Reply
    • Troy ClarkTroy Clark says

      August 20, 2019 at 7:58 pm

      It means that the appearance of the finished concrete surface when using acid depends on many facts: The type of concrete surface, the duration of the acid, and many others. It turns out that the result is always somewhat unpredictable.

      Reply
  9. AvatarIvan G. says

    August 24, 2019 at 9:05 pm

    How do you properly clean a concrete surface before applying the Kemiko Stone Tone Concrete Stain (Garden Gold)? Do you just need to power wash it or is there some sort of special soap or treatment?

    Reply
    • Troy ClarkTroy Clark says

      August 25, 2019 at 8:13 pm

      Wash the concrete surface as it must be clean and free of paints, wax, grease, dirt and other surface contaminants. Do not acid wash or use heavy alkali cleaners.

      Reply
  10. AvatarJeff E. says

    August 26, 2019 at 4:31 pm

    So if I wear to purchase the VIVID Acid Stain Walnut and test it out on a test piece of my wood, but then didn’t like it. Do they accept returns or am I stuck with it?

    Reply
    • Troy ClarkTroy Clark says

      August 27, 2019 at 7:16 pm

      Returns are not accepted. If you doubt what suits you, then take the smallest package for the test.

      Reply
  11. AvatarJami says

    September 8, 2019 at 4:29 pm

    I know it sounds like a lot of work to have to clean the driveway before using the Kemiko Stone Tone but it’s worth it in my opinion.

    Reply
  12. AvatarMichael C. says

    October 6, 2019 at 2:20 pm

    I used the VIVID Acid Stain just last month for my concrete outback and it made it look so much better. The concrete is pretty old and falling apart in some places but this has helped clean it up and make it presentable again for parties. Cost a lot less than removing the old concrete and putting more in.

    Reply
  13. AvatarScott says

    October 25, 2019 at 7:11 pm

    When I first did a concrete stain I didn’t even think about the health risks associated with it. You need to be careful and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself if you are DIYing it.

    Reply
  14. AvatarBenson Clark says

    November 6, 2019 at 9:19 pm

    The perfect product is by far the VIVID Acid Stain Walnut. I have used it for my past few projects and they all turned out flawlessly. The website ways the color is not guaranteed but I have never had a problem with the color being weird or dark or anything.

    Reply
  15. AvatarJustin Reed says

    December 4, 2019 at 6:20 pm

    While the VIVID Acid Stain Coffee is very acidic and toxic when applying, I think it really does lead to the best results. I’ve never had a stain turn our as good. While I did have to prep the surface substantially more than I ever have, I’d say it was 100% worth it for the color outcome.

    Reply
  16. AvatarBenny says

    January 3, 2020 at 1:29 pm

    I did have to prep the concrete a bit but it wasn’t even that much more work. I was using the Kemiko Stone Tone Concrete Stain and it was easy to apply and it looks really great at the moment. Not weird spots or stains that I can see.

    Reply

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