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Chemical stains aren't like paint. They don't produce solid, even coloration. And there aren't many colors available-only six or seven. Chemical stains produce translucent colors with somewhat unpredictable variation, but that's why people are so interested in them. The variation in color can be subtle or high contrast, due mostly to the skills and techniques of the contractor.
There are countless ways to create interesting colorations when you play with ideas and experiment. Here are some suggestions from stain manufacturers and contractors who frequently use stains.
First some basics
Preparing concrete for staining is the biggest problem area and determines the final appearance. One contractor avoids most preparation problems by always staining on the morning after concrete placement. This way there is no slab contamination or damage by others. Another suggestion is to pre-wet slabs to help the stain penetrate better and to avoid spill marks. It also helps before applying stain to sand floors to remove some of the carbonation and to accentuate the highs and lows left by the finishing process.
Subtle variation techniques
Many residential owners prefer floor finishes with subtle color changes. Here are some ways to achieve this:
* Spray stain the day after concrete placement with stain dilutions between 5% and 15% to carefully control the intensity of the color. If owners want more intense coloration, use 50% dilutions.
* Spray stain diluted 50% with water for the first application. Fill another sprayer with undiluted stain of the same color and spray in patches and flashes immediately as the first layer is being sprayed.
* To get color variations, mix stain with thick liquid soap and apply.
* Stain over color hardened or integrally colored slabs.
* Brush in stain and follow immediately with sprayed stain.
Techniques that provide greater contrast and effect
* Spot a slab with "Ironite" or "Miracle Grow" plant fertilizer either before or after stain is applied. They come either granulated or powdered.
* Broadcast "Kitty Litter" before or after a second stain color application. It absorbs stain, leaving the area under it lighter in color.
* Throw corn flakes on a slab. The stain effect is more intense...