For an updated and more detailed tutorial please check out my in depth Acid Staining tutorial by clicking here: How to Acid Stain Concrete. You will find all sorts of updated information along with the video seen below.
Acid staining a patio can turn your boring grey concrete patio into a masterpiece. I did this particular project up at my family's cabin and it turned out looking awesome. I am going to explain the process in a nutshell and share with you how I completed the project.
Tools and Supplies needed in making a Acid Stain
Pressure Washer, hose
Scrub Brushes and concrete cleaning solution
Pump Sprayer from your local hardware store
Acid stain from a concrete supplier or you can easily order it online by clicking the following:
Colors used: Western Saddle, Rich Mahogany and BrownStone.
Here is a direct link to the suppliers website which shows samples of what the colors look like.
Step 1:
Clean concrete thoroughly. First sweep, then power wash the entire surface 1-2 times. Scrub with a thick bristled brush to remove stains. Use concrete etchers or diluted muriatic acid for tough stains.
Step 2: Let dry thoroughly. Then protect surrounding areas by using plastic and tape to cover walls and other flooring from overspray.
Step 3: Once dry, ensure the concrete is clear of debris.
Step 4: Fill up a pump sprayer with water and mist the whole area. This helps the stain take more evenly and is a little more forgiving.
Step 5: Mix acid stain in another pump sprayer and dilute as required by the manufacturer. Mist the surface with the acid stain and slowly work back and forth making sure you don't step on the area where stain has been applied.
Step 6: Highlight with other colors if desired to give the patio a little more variation.
Step 7: Allow the area to dry completely (usually 8-24 hours). Then you'll want to mix ammonia in a bucket with water and pour it over the surface. The ammonia stops the reaction between the acid and the concrete. Grab your hose and thoroughly wash the area.
Step 8: Let the surface complete dry.
Step 9: Apply a sealer. I prefer solvent based sealers because they give it a nice shiny and durable finish. Sealers can be purchased at Sherwin Williams and other paint stores.
If you have any questions or would like to share your experiences with acid stain projects please comment below!