Scoring lines and acid staining a concrete porch or patio can really serve to dress it up and give your outdoor space a more finished look. Here’s how to go about it.
Score Lines in Concrete Slab
- Decide on a scoring pattern for the concrete slab.
- Layout the pattern on the concrete using a chalk line.
- Score the lines in the concrete using a straight board or piece of plywood as a guide for the saw. Be sure to wear eye protection and a dust mask when scoring concrete.
- Rinse the concrete slab with a garden hose to remove the dust.
Acid Stain Concrete Slab
- Clean the concrete thoroughly with a scrub brush to remove any dirt or oil and rinse off any residue with a garden hose.
- Cover any surrounding surfaces to prevent damage to unstained areas.
- Spray the slab down lightly with water from a garden hose to dampen the concrete.
- Pour an acid stain, such as Quikrete Etching Stain, into a pump-up sprayer. Be sure to wear protective clothing and goggles, and follow all safety instructions on the container.
- Apply the acid stain evenly to the concrete slab, using a piece of plywood to keep the stain off unwanted areas.
- Allow the acid stain to remain on the concrete overnight.
- Once the stain has remained on the concrete for the recommended amount of time, apply a mixture of baking soda and water with a scrub brush to neutralize the acid in the stain.
- Use a wet-dry vacuum to remove any acid stain and baking soda residue.
- When the concrete has dried, apply a finish such as Quikrete Etching Stain High Gloss Sealer to protect the stained surface and give the concrete a finished look the job.
Watch the video above to find out more.
