Stained Concrete Wilkes Barre PA
When properly cared for, Stained Concrete Wilkes Barre PA can last many years. However, if you aren’t careful, it can also be damaged. This can result in unsightly patchwork repairs, so read the article and learn how stained concrete can be cared for properly. You’ll be glad you did when you have a beautiful stamped concrete walkway, patio, or garden that is free of any damage.
What is Stained Concrete Wilkes Barre PA?
In Wilkes Barre PA, stained concrete is concrete that has been colored by adding pigment to its base mix before or during the manufacturing process and concrete pouring. It’s most commonly used to color outdoor surfaces. Some Stained Concrete in Wilkes Barre PA is made indoors, but most people use colored concrete for outdoor areas because it looks particularly nice next to a pool, lake, or other water feature. Colored concrete is popular in living areas because it generally makes the space look brighter and more colorful. It can also be used to decorate exterior walkways, patios, or other outdoor zones so that you don’t have to sacrifice style for practicality. While colored concrete is a popular choice, it’s important to understand the various types of stained concrete and how to care for them properly. To find out more about how stained concrete is made, how to care for it, and what types of colored concrete exist, read on.
Why Is Stained Concrete Wilkes Barre PA Used in Homes?
Stained Concrete Wilkes Barre PA is a great addition to homes because it gives the exterior a beautiful look. It also makes the area seem larger than it actually is, adding to its popularity as a walkway. Stained concrete is great for patios, walkways, and areas near water features like pools and lakes. It’s also a great solution for areas like gardens, where grass is too expensive or otherwise unappealing. Put down a darker shade of green and your backyard will look like something out of a magazine.
The Different Types of Stains for Stained Concrete
Stained Concrete Wilkes Barre PA is a great way to update and freshen up your existing patio, pool deck or driveway. In fact, it’s such a popular DIY home project that many people choose to stain a whole new set of hardscaping. However, not all stains are created equal, so it’s important to know which type of stain you should use for your concrete. The following types of stains are the most popular:
– Oil-based stains: Oil-based stains are the most commonly used type of stain for staining concrete. They’re applied by spraying the stain onto the surface, then letting it dry before applying any sealant.
– Water-based stains: Water-based stains are also very popular. However, they’re applied with a water-based sealant and require no drying time before application.
– Penetrating stains: This type of stain penetrates the surface of concrete and adheres to the underlying concrete. It’s often used on post-construction concrete and other porous surfaces.
– Polyurethane stains: Polyurethane stains are similar to penetrating stains in that they adhere to concrete, but they also build up a layer of plastic on top of the surface.
– Latex paints: This type of paint is less common, but it’s a great option for the DIY-minded. They adhere to concrete, but they don’t fade over time like other paints.
Tips for Color-Stained Concrete Wilkes Barre PA
– Use a Stained Concrete Cleaner – If you do decide to clean stained concrete, use a cleaner designed for cleaning concrete. Stained Concrete Wilkes Barre PA are generally less abrasive than regular household cleaners, so they won’t damage the finish.
– Use the Right Amount of Cleaner – You also need to know how much cleaner to use. If you use too much, you’ll end up damaging the finish. A good rule of thumb is to use one-fourth the amount of cleaner that you would for a kitchen counter.
– Cleaning Regularly – Stained concrete is porous and porous surfaces are porous. If you clean it too often, the surface will lose its color and look worn. Try to clean it at least once a week.
– Avoid Salt Deposits – If you do decide to keep your stained concrete clean with a mop, avoid using salt. Salt deposits build up on the concrete surface when you clean with a mop and cause your stain to wear away.
– Cleaning Tools – While you can use household cleaners on stained concrete, you should also invest in a set of tools designed for cleaning concrete. This will make it easier to clean your stained concrete, as well as make it look cleaner.
– Change Your Routine – If your stained concrete looks clean, but you know that it hasn’t been cleaned, change your routine and clean it. If you clean it once a week and let it sit, it will look dirty again.
– Avoid High-Impact Areas – If your stained concrete is in a high-traffic area like a walkway, you need to be especially careful to maintain its cleanliness. Avoid high-impact areas and change your cleaning routine if it’s been sitting for a while.
The 8 Mistakes to Avoid When Staining Concrete
Here are 8 mistakes you need to avoid when doing Stained Concrete in Wilkes Barre PA:
– Not removing all of the stain from the concrete’s surface. While it’s a good idea to get as much color on the surface as possible, you also have to get as much of the old stain off the surface as possible. Otherwise, the new stain will bleed through the old stain and look uneven.
– Using the wrong type of stain for your concrete. Just like choosing the right color, you have to use the right stain for your concrete. Otherwise, the stain’s color won’t show through and your patio will be stained rather than stained.
– Not sealing the concrete’s surface. This protects both the concrete and the stain by preventing stains from seeping through.
– Not letting the concrete’s surface dry completely. As soon as you’ve applied the stain, let the concrete dry completely or it won’t work correctly.
– Using the wrong amount of stain. Too much stain and you’ll see it through the concrete; not enough and you’ll have to repaint.
– Using the wrong type of surface sealant. Just like with paint, you have to use a water-based sealant for oil-based stains and a polymer-based sealant for water-based stains.
– Staining over poorly-drained areas. This is a common mistake, and it’s one that can ruin your stained project. Poorly-drained areas soak up stain and don’t allow it to dry completely. This means that the color shows through and your project has to be repainted.
FAQs About Stained Concrete Wilkes Barre PA
How to Care for Stained Concrete Wilkes Barre PA?
There are a few things that you need to know about caring for Stained Concrete Wilkes Barre PA. First, you can’t clean it with a regular mop or bucket. Cleaning stained concrete with harsh chemicals or a mop will damage the finish and make it look worn and unattractive. Instead, use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe away dirt and grime. You should also avoid scrubbing the concrete because this can also damage the finish.
When Should You Use a Protective Coating on Stained Concrete?
If you’re staining new concrete, there’s really no need to use a protective coating. But if you’re staining an existing Stained Concrete in Wilkes Barre PA patio, you should use a clear coat to protect the stained surface. This is because, while oil-based stains are generally safe to use on existing concrete, it’s better to be safe than sorry. A clear coat prevents stains from seeping through the concrete and ruining your existing surface.