​Acid staining has become one of the most preferred ways of transforming dull and gray concrete slabs into an attractive work of art. Many refer to it as; colored concrete or acid stained concrete. Many designers, builders, and homeowners are fascinated by the appeal of acid staining on floors or concrete slabs due to its exquisite and unique outcome. More so, it allows different colors to mix and techniques seem to come up with appealing outcomes.

​Chemically stained concrete flooring is highly favored by major players in the building construction industry because acid staining produces surfaces that are cost effective, easy to maintain, and attractive. Hence it promotes the newest focus in the industry – organic designs.
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​Most acid staining is achieved by a combination of water, acid-soluble metallic salts, and hydrochloric acid. The mixture works through a chemical reaction with the hydrated lime in the stain to produce color in the concrete. Leaving you with magnificent results!

​The painting contractor ensures to clean the surface of the concrete thoroughly by scrubbing the interior floors with an abrasive pad and a buffer or pressure washing the outdoor area. Checking that the surface is clean, and the surrounding walls have been prepped, the acid stain will be sprayed on the floor with a sprayer and not a brush, mop or roller. This will give the best results overall.

​The application of acid staining to concrete surface creates an uneven, mottled, and translucent color, which looks like weathered stone marble or slate. Colors in concrete can vary due to different chemical combination in each concrete slab. And note that acid staining is not similar to paint, so, it is not like a coating in any way. Consequently, the color forms as a permanent part of the surface and will not flake, peel or chip. Some have noticed the translucence of acid staining will create beautiful imperfections on cracked slabs or concrete flooring by providing a weathered look of character.
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​The acid contained in the stain creates a chemical reaction with the lime in the concrete and that will result in a drastic change of color of the concrete. The concrete passes through different changes, especially the ugly stage, until the acid becomes neutralized with an alkaline agent such as water or ammonia. If the floor is clean, which is highly recommended, before a sealer is applied on it, the acid stained floors will take the look of a terrazzo or marble.

​Acid staining is suitable for both residential and commercial buildings as it protects the floor and has a low maintenance factor, in addition to an exquisite finish it leaves on the concrete floors.  Ask your home painting service provider about acid staining for dramatic effects!

The summer is almost over, and if you are considering painting your home during the late summer, you should have the right information to assist you during the painting process. Know that painting the exterior of a building can be challenging during the summer; but with the tips below, you get the job done without hassles.

​1. Monitor Weather Forecast
Even though, it will be raining in the summer does not mean you can paint the exterior. Painting at a higher temperature usually above 21 degree Celsius will make the painting susceptible to flaking and cracking. The pros know, the temperature of the surface to be painted should not be too hot, that is why it is best to paint the exterior of a building early in the morning. In the same vein, avoid painting on a windy day. It will reduce the drying time of the paint, but also will affect the quality of the painted work.  And wind guts can be a nightmare if your spraying the exterior.
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2. Use the Right Exterior Paint
It is essential to choose the right paint that suits the outdoor space with regard to summer. There is a right formulated paint for the outdoor use that will guarantee convenience and best results, even with impending rain every afternoon. We like Sherwin Williams Resilience for this.

​3. Have the Right Gear and Tools
Painting the exterior of a building during the summer exposes you to the summer heat, which can be too much; staying hydrated is paramount. Some precautions are, have a cooler on-site, get the right gear like caps or hats, and apply sunscreen. Also, get the right set of tools like high-quality brushes and rollers that will improve the work quality and save time.        

Lastly, inquire with a professional painting contractor to paint your exterior in Summer. Chances are, they will be much more efficient at the exterior project when all elements are considered! Efficiency saves you time, money and stress!