Comparison Chart of Concrete Coloring Products
![]() Acid Stain | ![]() Water-Based Stain | ![]() Concrete Dye | ![]() Integral Color | ![]() Dry-Shake Color Hardener |
Color options available (See these sample color charts) | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Limited to earth tones and soft blue-greens | Nearly unlimited; different colors can be mixed to create custom hues | Nearly unlimited; colors can be mixed or diluted | Limited to earth tones and pastel shades | Comes in a wider array of hues than integral color, but tones are more muted than dyes or water-based stains |
Can be used indoors and outdoors | ||||
Yes | Yes | Check with the manufacturer. Not all dyes are UV-resistant. | Yes | Yes |
Can be applied to new or existing concrete | ||||
Yes | Yes | Yes | New concrete only | New concrete only |
Can be applied to cement-based overlays | ||||
Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
Ease of application and cleanup | ||||
Poor After application, surface must be scrubbed to remove stain residue and to neutralize the acid. | Good No neutralization or rinsing is required; application tools can be cleaned with soap and water. | Good No need to clean the slab after application; dye particles are very fine and absorbed into the surface. | N/A | Poor Must be hand broadcast, and can be labor-intensive and messy to work with. |
Application tool requirements | ||||
A low-pressure sprayer, or brushes or sponges for detail work. All tools must be acid-resistant, with no metal components. | A low-pressure sprayer, roller, brush or sponge | A low-pressure sprayer, roller, brush or sponge | N/A | A bull float, to work the hardener into the surface |
Performance | ||||
Excellent Because they penetrate the concrete surface, most acid- and water-based stains have excellent UV stability and wear resistance. | Good Some dyes are not recommended for exterior use because they can fade when exposed to direct sunlight. | Excellent The color goes through the entire slab and will not wear away. | Excellent Improves the strength and density of the concrete surface; also UV resistant. | |
Are safety precautions required? | ||||
Yes May contain corrosive components that can cause eye, skin, and lung irritation. Wear impervious gloves and boots, eye protection, and a facemask to prevent inhalation. | No Water-based stains typically have a low VOC content and are safe to apply without concern for odors or toxic fumes. | Yes, if solvent-based Solvent-based dyes are flammable and can produce hazardous vapors. For projects in occupied spaces or where ventilation is poor, use a water-based dye. | No | Yes Airborne powder can be harmful to breathe. Wear a respirator or facemask when working with these products. |