Over time, heavy use and weather damage can leave concrete and masonry looking discolored and aged. Fortunately, you can take steps to restore the beauty of everything from patio pads to driveways and garden statues with concrete and masonry etching and stain. Ace Hardware stocks a variety of these specialty stains and finishes from brands like Valspar, BASF and Insl-X to meet your needs.
Prepare Your Surface with a Masonry and Concrete Etcher
In the same way that you should put on a primer to prepare a wooden surface before applying a coat of wood stain, you should also use concrete etcher to prepare your surface before applying a concrete stain. Without primer, the stain may not adhere evenly, or it could end up peeling or fading quickly. Similarly, applying concrete or masonry stain as a first step in restoration can lead to lackluster results.
What Does Concrete Etcher Do?
A masonry or concrete etcher activates the surface, opening pores to allow masonry stains and seals to penetrate the outermost layer of material and form a strong bond. At the same time, concrete and masonry etcher removes built-up dirt and discoloration to give you a clean slate to start staining.
Add Character with Concrete and Masonry Stain
If your concrete or stone structures and surfaces have discoloration that etching can't remove, stain can help you cover it. You can also use stain to change the appearance of the materials, just as you can reinvent your outdoor living space with a fresh coat of deck stain in a new color.
Stain can cover stubborn discoloration or give your surfaces a completely new look, whether a deck or concrete. When you are ready to choose a stain, we have options to help you get the look you want.
- Find your color: Our stains come in basic hues like gray and white. You can also find tintable bases that let you mix in pigments for a custom color that is perfect for your space.
- Select a transparency: Consider the transparency level to get the right finish. A semi-transparent or transparent stain allows the natural texture of the stone or concrete to show through. A solid stain will provide maximum coverage for a uniform finish.
Seal and Protect Your Surface
Not all concrete and masonry stain products impart color to surfaces. A clear sealer protects your concrete and masonry without adding color, much like a varnish protects wood. This is a smart way to protect your surfaces and keep them looking great.
- Prevent damage:A clear coat acts as a barrier against scuffs, scratches and general wear and tear.
- Block moisture:It limits moisture absorption which helps reduce the risk of cracking from freezing and thawing weather.
- Keep basements dry:In basements, a sealer can help keep indoor areas drier by preventing water from seeping through the concrete.
Shop Masonry and Concrete Stain Near You at Ace
Getting great results starts with the right products and a little helpful advice. At your local Ace Hardware, our knowledgeable associates can help you find the right stain or etcher near you for your project. We also have the other supplies you’ll need to get the job done right, including pressure washers, wire brushes, paint rollers, safety glasses and gloves. Stop by your neighborhood store, or order online for fast shipping to your home.
