Using Acid Stain for Your Concrete Countertops

If you have concrete countertops in your kitchen, applying an acid stain will allow you to change the color of the concrete. This process is not difficult, and it can make a huge difference in the overall appearance of your countertops. Here are the basics of how to use an acid stain on your concrete countertops.

Clean the Counter

The first thing that you have to do is thoroughly clean the concrete countertop. If you try to apply the stain when the concrete is not clean, it will not have the same effect, and you will most likely be disappointed in the end result. Use a mixture of dishwashing liquid and water to clean the surface of the counter. You can wipe it down with a rag to be sure to remove any dirt or residue that is on the concrete.

Preparation

The acid stain that you will be using is very corrosive. Because of this, you need to be sure to protect everything around the concrete countertop before getting started. Take some plastic sheets and tape them down to the floor around the countertop. You should also put tape along with the trim or the wall that is touching the countertop.

Test the Stain

If possible, you need to do a test area with the acid stain. Go to an area that will be covered by kitchen appliances or something else. Then, apply a very small portion of the stain to the concrete. Allow it to sit as long as you would with the regular job and see how it looks. This will give you an indication of what the countertop will look like when you are done. Stains work differently on different types of concrete, and you need to do this so that you will see how it will react with yours.

Apply the Acid Stain

Once you are satisfied with the look of the test area, you can apply the acid stain to the entire concrete countertop. Read the manufacturer's instructions to make sure that you leave the acid stain on long enough. Be sure to wear protective gloves and goggles while you are handling the acid.

Wiping it Off

After the acid stain has dried, you need to wipe off any remaining residue. Take a rag and use it to wipe down your countertop. You should now be able to see what your countertop will look like.

Sealing the Countertop

After you have allowed the stain to dry for the appropriate time, you can seal the countertop. Concrete is porous, and if you are using it as a countertop, you should seal it so that it will not stain. Apply a concrete sealer to the countertop and allow it to dry. Once it is dry, you can begin using the countertop.