How to Stain Interior Concrete

Last Updated: October 21, 2021 References

Staining concrete is a great way to create surfaces in the home that are durable and very easy to maintain. Floors and counter tops created with concrete can be stained to any shade or color desired, adding warmth to the space for relatively little money. Best of all, staining interior concrete is the type of task that can be accomplished as a weekend project, using a few simple tools purchased at a local home improvement store

Steps

1
Clear the area where the concrete staining will occur. If the project involves staining a concrete floor, that means all furniture and area rugs are removed from the space. For concrete counter tops, remove all items from the counter top, and place them in another room or at least in a distant area of the same room, covering them with a drop cloth.^{[1]
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2
Sand the concrete surface. The idea is to smooth any rough spots and leave a more or less uniform face to the concrete. The sand will also remove any finishes that may already be on the surface, making it easier to stain the concrete.^{[2]
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3
Clean the concrete. Sweep the area or use a shop vacuum to remove any loose particles. Then use the mop to apply a cleaning product that is especially formulated for use with concrete. Most brands of concrete cleaners will apply easily with a mop or a soft brush. Allow the concrete to dry before proceeding.^{[3]
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4
Tape off the area around the concrete. When staining a concrete floor, this means using painter's tape along the baseboards of the room. If the project is staining concrete counters, use the painter's tape and butcher paper to protect the wall surface behind the counter.^{[4]
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5
Apply the concrete stain. Mix the product in a basic pump style garden sprayer. Pump the stain onto the concrete using even strokes to make sure the surface is complete coated, but without creating any puddles. Allow the first round of spraying to set, and then look for any areas that are lighter than you prefer. Administer a second and even a third coat of the stain to create the look you want.^{[5]
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6
Seal the concrete. Once the stain has set to your liking, apply a concrete sealant to the surface. A paint roller made with synthetic fiber rather than cotton fiber will make it possible to apply the sealant evenly and avoid streaking. Allow the sealant to set before attempting to move any furniture back into the area.^{[6]
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Community Q&A

Question

How do I stop a white substance from leeching out of the concrete?

Community Answer

If it is a white substance that is generated over time, it is probablymicrobial growth. Many do not know that mold can grow on various substances while on or in concrete. If it is a white substance that is generated fairly quickly, then a good washing, rinsing and drying of the floor should suffice.
Question

Does the concrete crack over time?

Community Answer

Any concrete can crack, but it's more unlikely on interior, as it is protected from frost and water.