Stained Concrete Treatments
Types of Stained Concrete Treatments
There are two primary types of stains used in stained concrete treatments:
Acid-Based Stains
Acid stains are made from a mixture of water, acid-soluble metallic salts, and hydrochloric acid. When applied to concrete, the stain penetrates the surface and permanently changes the color of the concrete. Concrete that has been acid stained won’t fade or discolor when exposed to sunlight; thus, acid stains are always utilized for outdoor areas. Acid stains typically produce earth-toned colors like browns, greens, blues, and reds and are known for creating effects that mimic natural stone or marble.
Water-Based Stains
Water-based stains come in various options, and pigments cover concrete surfaces. Unlike acid stains, they do not chemically react with the concrete but instead penetrate the surface to create uniform colors. They can also be used to create custom designs and logos. Water-based stains are easy to apply with a sprayer, brush, roller, or sponge. While they have a durable finish, water-based stains are not recommended for outdoor environments. Water-based stain treatments are an excellent option for customers desiring eco-friendly flooring because they have no odors or VOCs.
Stained Concrete Treatment Benefits
Stained concrete treatments have become increasingly popular in commercial and industrial spaces. Here are some benefits of stained concrete treatments in commercial settings:
- Design – Stained concrete can transform dull and plain concrete floors into visually appealing surfaces. The stains come in various colors, shades, and patterns, allowing businesses to create customized designs that complement their branding or interior decor theme, even incorporating logos or designs into the floor.
- Cost-Effective – Stained concrete is a cost-effective flooring option compared to materials like marble, tile, or hardwood. The staining process is generally less expensive than installing new flooring materials, making it a budget-friendly choice for commercial spaces looking to upgrade their floors.
- Low Maintenance – Stained concrete floors are relatively low maintenance, especially compared to carpet. Cleaning stained concrete involves a mop, soap, and water.
- Durability – Concrete itself is a durable material, and when properly stained and sealed, it can withstand heavy foot traffic, furniture, and other stresses. It is resistant to stains, warping, or chipping, making it ideal for high-traffic areas in commercial buildings. This durability translates to long-term cost savings, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
- Environmentally Friendly – Stained concrete treatments are more environmentally friendly than other commercial flooring options. They utilize existing concrete surfaces, reducing the need for additional materials. In addition, as a hard flooring surface, dust and allergens aren’t trapped, thus improving indoor air quality.
- Versatility – Stained concrete treatments offer versatility in design options. Different staining techniques like acid stains or water-based stains provide flexibility in achieving different looks and finishes in retail stores, restaurants, offices, showrooms, and more.
- Reflects Light – Light-colored stained concrete floors can help improve lighting in commercial spaces by reflecting natural and artificial light. This can contribute to a brighter and more inviting space, potentially reducing the need for excessive artificial lighting during daylight hours.
If you want to upgrade your commercial flooring, a stained concrete treatment offers a durable and cost-effective option to help businesses stand out.
Stained Concrete Treatment Considerations for Commercial Building Owners
While stained concrete treatments offer several advantages, they also come with a few considerations that commercial property owners should weigh to make an informed decision.
Stained concrete is durable but can still be susceptible to damage, such as cracks or chips. Repairing stained concrete can be challenging, especially if the damage affects the stained surface. In some cases, the entire surface may need to be restained or refinished.
Stained concrete surfaces can be slippery depending on the type of sealer used. Property owners who are concerned about spills or wet surfaces will need to use anti-slip additives or choose a sealer with non-slip properties.
Achieving a high-quality stained concrete finish requires proper surface preparation. This may involve cleaning, repairing cracks or imperfections, and ensuring the surface is smooth and contaminant-free before staining.
Stained concrete may not be suitable for areas with extreme heat exposure, such as flooring near industrial equipment or ovens. High temperatures can affect the appearance and longevity of the stain, requiring additional protective measures.
While many property owners appreciate the natural variations and unique character of stained concrete, others may find the potential for color variation between batches or areas to be a drawback, especially in large spaces where consistency is desired.
Stained concrete requires periodic resealing to maintain its appearance and protective properties. Property owners should budget for ongoing maintenance costs, including resealing every few years, depending on wear and exposure.
Stained Concrete Treatments For Toledo, Ohio Area Businesses
Stained concrete treatments are versatile and can be found in various commercial settings.
- Retail and Hospitality Flooring – Restaurants, big box stores, and hotels often opt for stained concrete treatments because they can withstand high foot traffic and are easy to clean. Property owners appreciate being able to customize flooring and have a sophisticated commercial flooring solution.
- Offices and Corporate Buildings – Stained concrete treatments are used in office buildings to create modern and professional spaces. They offer a low-maintenance flooring option suitable for the busyness of the corporate world.
- Educational Buildings – Custodial and maintenance staff appreciate how easy stained concrete floors are to clean. With the constant foot traffic of students and staff, a stained concrete treatment makes perfect sense in schools, colleges, and libraries. Fremont Ross Schools chose stained and sealed concrete floors for a few spaces when building their new high school.
- Government Buildings – Stained concrete is a durable flooring solution that meets the requirements of courthouses, municipal facilities, and public spaces.
- Entertainment Venues – Bar and nightclub owners often choose stained concrete floors due to their ability to withstand heavy use and ease of cleaning. Stained concrete treatments can also be found in movie theaters and concert halls because they are a visually appealing flooring solution that can be customized.
By considering these factors, commercial property owners can choose stained concrete treatments from Lakeside Interior Contractors that not only meets their functional requirements but also enhances the overall environment of their space.
Our team is ready to find your best commercial flooring solution! Give us a call today!