How To Acid Stain Concrete Patio

Acid staining is a great way to add color and personality to your concrete patio. It's a relatively easy process that can be done by anyone with a little bit of DIY experience.

Here are the steps on how to acid stain a concrete patio:

1. Prepare the concrete

The first step is to prepare the concrete. This means cleaning it thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or oil. You can do this with a pressure washer or a strong cleaner and a brush.

2. Apply the acid stain

Once the concrete is clean, you can apply the acid stain. Acid stain is a water-based solution that contains hydrochloric acid and metal salts. The acid will etch the surface of the concrete, and the metal salts will react with the minerals in the concrete to create color.

To apply the acid stain, use a sprayer or a brush. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection, as the acid can be harmful if it comes into contact with your skin or eyes.

3. Allow the acid stain to penetrate

Once you have applied the acid stain, allow it to penetrate the concrete for 24-48 hours. The longer you allow it to penetrate, the darker the color will be.

4. Neutralize the acid

Once the acid stain has penetrated, you need to neutralize it. This will stop the acid from etching the concrete any further.

To neutralize the acid, use a solution of baking soda and water. Spray the solution onto the concrete and allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes. Then, rinse the concrete thoroughly with water.