Are Decorative Concrete Stains Better Than Dyes And Pigments?

For years, concrete has meant unassuming and bleak. But have you ever wondered if there was any way to change the dull, dreary gray into something more lively? Well, there’s good news! Today we have decorative concrete staining, dyes, and pigments to spruce up your floor. Stain, dyes, and pigments are all equally popular but there’s a noted difference between the three. This article will walk you through the three coloring agents and an honest side-by-side comparison.

What Are Concrete Stains?

Concrete stains are remarkably quick and easy. In the staining process, a water-based solution is poured over washed concrete. This layer of stains bonds with the concrete and becomes a permanent part of the surface.

With concrete stains, you can let your imagination run free and create a variety of patterns and gradients. Continuous foot traffic and wear can cause the stain to dull over time which is why we recommend you go over with a layer of sealant to top it.

There are 3 types of concrete stain-

  • Acid Stains: These react with the surface of the floor and create a beautiful textured or marble finish. It’s a free-flowing process so you don’t get to control the pattern much. When pouring the acid stain, make sure the acid doesn’t end up getting absorbed too deep.

  • Penetrating Stains: This kind of stain sinks into the pores of the concrete, permanently altering the color. These don’t change the original texture of the floor and are ideal for a plain uniform color throughout.

  • Film Forming Stains: Film forming stains are similar to paint. This stain can be painted over the concrete giving you complete freedom to experiment with patterns and styles. If after several years of use you notice chipping or flaking, you can very easily cast another layer.

What Are Concrete Dyes?

Concrete dyes are color solutions that unlike acid stains don’t react with the concrete. The coloring agents present in dyes penetrates the surface. Dyes can be both water-based and solvent-based and generally give you more control over the designs. They are very versatile and can be used for complex designs like murals, mandalas, etc.

What Are Concrete Pigments?

To use a concrete pigment one must mix it with the concrete prior to pouring. The pigment comes from the chemical compound iron oxide. Pigments are resistant to fading since they color the entire batch of concrete rather than just the surface. However, this also means that there isn’t much space for creativity. You cannot create different patterns with pigments and they should only be used if you want a monochrome floor.

Decorative Concrete Staining Vs Dyes Vs Pigments

Appearance

Stains

  • Can be controlled to a certain extent

  • Acid Stains make for abstract, flowy pattern

  • Film-forming stains can be used for more complex designs

Dyes

  • Provides maximum level of control

  • Ideal for intricate designs

  • Versatile and available in a huge variety of colors

Pigments

  • Cannot be controlled at all

  • Best for solid monochrome floors

Durability

Stains

  • Fairly durable

  • Fade over time

  • Require a top coat of sealants to last longer

Dyes

  • Prone to chipping and flaking with use

  • Can be repainted every few years

Pigments

  • Lasts the longest

  • Doesn’t fade with time

  • The pigment is virtually imbibed in the concrete

Concrete Staining with Zone Garage

An affordable and fun way to switch the look of your concrete. We offer a color palette that has something for every aesthetic. Our services are renowned in the entirety of Oklahoma and we promise you won’t be let down. Visit our page for a free quote!