Concrete Staining & Sealing in Austin, TX

Concrete staining transforms bare or plain concrete into a decorative surface — without covering it with a thick coating. Acid staining reacts chemically with the concrete to produce rich, variegated earth tones that are permanent and won't peel or chip. Water-based stains offer a wider color palette and more predictable results. Both options are sealed with a penetrating or topical sealer to protect the surface and enhance the color.

In Austin, concrete staining is popular for interior floors (living areas, kitchens, offices), exterior patios and pool decks, driveways, and commercial retail spaces. The result is a surface that looks like natural stone or polished concrete — at a fraction of the cost of tile or natural stone installation.

Acid staining uses a diluted hydrochloric acid solution with metallic salts to react chemically with the lime content in concrete. The reaction produces permanent color variations — no two acid-stained floors look identical. Colors range from earth tones (amber, terra cotta, walnut, sage) to blue-green and black. The variegated, mottled appearance is characteristic of acid staining and cannot be fully controlled — it's part of the aesthetic.

Water-based staining uses pigmented water-based solutions that penetrate the concrete surface. Colors are more consistent and predictable than acid staining. The palette is wider — virtually any color is achievable. Water-based stains are better suited for applications where a specific color match is required.

Both methods require a clean, unsealed concrete surface for penetration. Existing sealers, paint, or coatings must be removed before staining. After staining, a sealer is applied — penetrating sealers for low-maintenance exterior applications, topical sealers for interior floors that need a glossy finish.

We assess the concrete condition before recommending a staining approach — not all concrete stains well. We provide sample boards showing expected color results before committing to a full installation. We specify the appropriate sealer for the application (interior vs. exterior, traffic level, desired sheen). Written warranty on workmanship.