If you are looking for a way to freshen up your old concrete garage floor, then staining might be the answer. Coming in a variety of vibrant shades, you can achieve a stunning look which will not stretch the wallet. If you find the natural look uninspiring then add decorative touches such as stenciled designs, waves, swirls, or marbling.
Unlike paint, concrete will not peel or chip. It also absorbs heat and cold, which is great for conserving energy. Although staining will not cover cracks or stains and does need regular waxing, you will get a floor that is durable, easy to clean, and looks timeless. No wonder it is now such a popular option. Here is our choice of some of the most popular concrete stains for 2022.
COMPARISON CHART
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
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1. CC Concrete Coatings Vivid Acid Stain
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2. INSL-X CST211009A-01 TuffCrete Waterborne Acrylic Concrete Stain Paint
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3. Enduracoat: Acid Stain DIY Kit
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4. Resurrection Brand: Concrete Stain Concentrate
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5. Kemiko Stone Tone Concrete Stain
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1. CC Concrete Coatings Vivid Acid Stain
Specification
| Color | Mahogany |
| Coating Description | Acrylic |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Exterior-and-interior |
Features
- Acid-based
- Antique mottled finish
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Durable and long-lasting
Acid-based stainer, specifically formulated for concrete floors. Stains to a weathered, mottled, antique look. Easy to maintain, just mop or sweep. Penetrates the top layer of concrete to guarantee a long-lasting and durable finish. Comes in 11 stunning colors.
WHAT WE LIKE
A popular stainer due to its high quality finish, durability and affordability. Each of the wide-range of colors produces a beautiful and unique look for your garage floor. Its superior penetrating properties protect against chipping, peeling, and cracking.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
This is an acid-based stainer, so take precautions when applying. The stainer reacts differently to types of concrete. Research the colors carefully before purchasing as they can look differently when applied. The results have a mottled effect so if you want a consistent, even color, this is not the right product for you. Takes a long time for concrete to completely dry.
PROS
- High-quality finish
- Creates a stunning, individual look
- Durability and longevity
- Protects from chipping, peeling, and cracking
- Value for the money
CONS
- Produces an inconsistent, uneven finish
- Long drying time
2. INSL-X CST211009A-01 TuffCrete Waterborne Acrylic Concrete Stain Paint
Specification
| Paint Type | Acrylic |
| Color | White |
| Usage | Interior/Exterior |
Features
- Acrylic waterborne
- Non-fading formula
- Protects against oils, scrubbing, and grease
- Fast-drying finish
Acrylic waterborne stain. Can be applied in one coat as a stain or as two for an opaque finish. Long-lasting due to its non-fading formula. Protects floor against oils, scrubbing, and grease. Covers between 300-400 sq ft per gallon. Fast-drying finish resists scuffs. Comes with a stir stick and can opener. In light gray and white.
WHAT WE LIKE
Process can be completed in a day due to fast-drying properties and one coat application. Its non-fading properties adds longevity. More durable than other products on the market, it protects against grease, marks, and stains, ideal for garages. Appreciable coverage of up to 300 sq. ft.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
Reports of a strong smell when stain is used on interior concrete. In a garage, pick-up from hot tires may occur. The application procedure is a bit more complicated which could cause problems for first-time stainers.
PROS
- One day application process
- Only needs one coat
- Longevity due to non-fading formula
- More durable than other products
- Appreciable coverage
CONS
- Possible strong smell during application
- Complicated application process
3. Enduracoat: Acid Stain DIY Kit
Specification
| Paint Type | Acrylic |
| Color | Black/Walnut |
| Surface Recommendation | Masonry |
Features
- Acid Stain
- Available in different gallon sizes
- Will not chip, fade, crack, or peel
- Contains a sealer, cleaner/degreaser, and neutralizer
Acid Stain DIY Kit with 100% Acrylic Solvent Sealer. Comes in a wide-range of colors. Available in 1, 2, 3, or 4 gallons (covers between 250 to 1000 sq. ft). Produces a stunning, translucent finish which will not chip, fade, crack, or peel. Kit includes a concrete stain, an acrylic sealer, a concrete cleaner or degreaser, and a neutralizer for reactive stains.
WHAT WE LIKE
This kit provides you with everything you need to create an incredible stained floor. Perfect for people who regularly stain. Flexibility in color selection means you are bound to find one to suit you. Gives long-lasting protection for your garage floor. Comes in four sizes, and is perfect for projects of all sizes. Detailed instructions included.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
The application process can be messy, so follow instructions carefully. Some of the colors are not the same shade as advertised. As the stainer is translucent, the finished color might not be as strong as desired.
PROS
- Perfect for DIYers and professionals
- Great choice of colors
- Long-lasting protection
- Ideal for small or large jobs
- Comprehensive instructions included
CONS
- Shade may not be the same as advertised
- Application process can be tricky
4. Resurrection Brand: Concrete Stain Concentrate
Specification
| Paint Type | Water based |
| Color | Charcoal |
| Coating Description | Water-based |
Features
- Water-based concrete stainer
- Quick drying
- Environmentally friendly
- Professional and durable finish
Waterborne water reducible concentrate. Available in 8 and 32 ounces. Comes in 36 beautiful colors. Non-acidic and quick drying for easy application. Minimal odor and environmentally friendly stainer. Each bottle can cover up to 500 sq. ft. Robust and professional grade finish.
WHAT WE LIKE
Easy to use product which creates a long lasting professional finish even on old concrete. Ideal for indoor use as it has a low odor. Environmentally friendly as it is not acidic. Stylish accents can be produced by using layers of one or more colors. Handles exposure to strong sunlight.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
Creates a semi-translucent finish (if overly diluted) which will not cover stains or scuffs. Concrete has to be prepared thoroughly which can be time-consuming. Problems of fading have been reported when exposed to snow.
PROS
- Easy to use, simply application process
- Ideal for indoor use
- Environmentally friendly
- Creates stunning, professional grade finishes
- Durable and UV resistant
CONS
- Doesn’t not cover stains
- Prepping time can be time-consuming
- Snow can cause fading
5. Kemiko Stone Tone Concrete Stain
Specification
| Material | Walnut |
| Color | Vintage Umber |
| Surface Recommendation | Masonry |
Features
- Single component stain
- Can be mixed with equal parts water for greater coverage
- Durable and long-lasting
- Resistant to chipping and peeling
Single component stain. Can be used one part stain to one part stain for more coverage. Powerful bonding ability. Creates a vibrant finish. Durable and needs minimal maintenance. Will not fade over time. Resists chipping and peeling. Covers an extensive 400-800 sq. ft. Nine colors available. 0-Voc
WHAT WE LIKE
The vibrant colors give concrete a new leash of life. Its powerful bonding agent binds with the lime in concrete to form a permanent and durable finish which does not fade. Environmentally safer than other stainers due to less gas emittance (0-VOC). Test samples available for purchase.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
This stainer is not as effective with old concrete, which may be a problem in some garages. This is one of the only downsides with this product.
PROS
- Produces a stunning finish
- Bonds powerfully to concrete
- Environmentally safer
- Test samples available to purchase
- Minimal maintenance
CONS
- Does not bond with old concrete
Final Verdict
It is hard to choose between these great products. If you are looking for the complete package then the Enduracoat: Acid Stain DIYKit would be perfect choice. Great for those involved in regular staining projects. There is a reason why CC Concrete Coatings Vivid Acid Stain is consistently at the top of lists for the best stainers. It is a high-quality product from a well-respected brand which won’t break the bank. It is great for exterior as well as interior (well-ventilated) spaces such as garages. Gives an incredible finish which will give your concrete a new lease of life.
