Want to turn that dull gray slab into something you are proud to show off? Concrete Staining is one of the best upgrades you can make, but you cannot just slap color on and hope for the best. Especially out here near the foothills where our local clay soils and wild temperature swings put every outdoor surface to the test. Primetime Concrete Co provides Concrete Staining services for homes in Piedmont, SD, and we know how to plan your Concrete Staining project from start to finish.
The Timeline: What to Expect
Most homeowners want to know how long their patio or driveway is going to be out of commission during Concrete Staining. If you are working with existing, cured concrete, a standard Concrete Staining project usually takes about 3 to 5 days. New concrete needs to cure for at least 28 days before anyone should even think about putting acid or water-based Concrete Staining on it.
- Day one is all about cleaning and surface prep for Concrete Staining. We have to open up the pores of the concrete so the Concrete Staining can actually bite.
- Day two usually involves applying the Concrete Staining and letting it react or dry.
- Day three and four cover neutralizing, rinsing, and sealing the Concrete Staining. You will want to keep foot traffic off for a day after sealing, and heavy furniture should wait a few days longer.
How to Prepare Your Property
You do not have to do the heavy lifting, but a little prep makes the whole Concrete Staining process go smoother. Clear off any patio furniture, potted plants, and stray garden hoses from the slab before Concrete Staining begins. If you have pets, keep them inside because grinding dust and chemical washes do not mix well with curious paws. Primetime Concrete Co also needs access to a working water spigot and an electrical outlet nearby.
Keep in mind that if your concrete has old sealers, paint, or carpet glue on it, those have to come off first before Concrete Staining. At Primetime Concrete Co, we always check for surface contaminants because a dirty slab will block the Concrete Staining and ruin the final look.
Questions to Ask Your Contractor
Before you sign on the dotted line with any crew for Concrete Staining, you need to ask the right questions. Do not be shy about getting specifics regarding Concrete Staining.
- Are you using acid-based or water-based Concrete Staining, and why is that right for my slab?
- How do you handle surface repairs or cracks before Concrete Staining?
- What kind of sealer are you putting on top of the Concrete Staining, and how often will it need re-coating given Piedmont's weather?
- Can I see photos of actual local Concrete Staining jobs you have finished in Piedmont?
Taking the time to plan your Concrete Staining project right means you will not be dealing with peeling color or a blotchy finish down the road. Primetime Concrete Co helps you get a solid plan in place, asks tough questions, and makes sure your slab is ready for whatever the Piedmont climate brings.