Concrete Staining Pros — Find Installers Near You
Concrete staining adds color and character to existing concrete using acid-based or water-based dyes. Acid staining produces natural, marbled variation. Acrylic staining gives more control over the final color. Find a local specialist and compare quotes.
What it is
Acid-based or acrylic dyes applied to existing concrete to add color and decorative variation.
Best for
Patios, driveways, interior slabs, and anywhere you want color without replacing the concrete.
Typical cost
$2–$6 per sq ft — one of the more affordable decorative concrete options.
How Much Does Concrete Staining Cost?
Concrete staining costs $2–$11 per square foot depending on the stain type and design. Solid-color water-based stains run $2–$4/sqft. Acid staining, which produces a marbled, variegated effect, costs $3–$7/sqft. Decorative multi-step techniques combining staining with sawcut patterns or scoring run $8–$20/sqft. A sealer coat is typically included in the quoted price.
What affects the price
- Stain type — water-based solid color vs. acid stain vs. semi-transparent dye
- Design complexity — solid color vs. multi-tone, scored patterns, or faux finishes
- Surface condition — bare new concrete is ideal; old floors may require more prep
- Square footage — indoor residential (200–600 sqft) vs. large commercial or driveway
- Sealer type — acrylic sealer vs. epoxy sealer vs. polyurethane topcoat
- Outdoor vs. indoor — outdoor surfaces require UV-stable sealers and more maintenance
What to Look For in a Pro
Not all installers use the same products or prep methods. These questions separate experienced pros from shortcuts.
- Ask for a test patch on your specific concrete — acid stain results vary by concrete composition and age
- Confirm the sealer type is appropriate for your use (traffic level, outdoor exposure)
- Ask about their process for protecting adjacent surfaces from acid stain splash
- Verify they will neutralize acid stain residue before sealing — skipping this causes sealer failure
- Ask how often the sealer needs to be reapplied — typically every 1–3 years for outdoor surfaces
- Request photos of completed acid stain jobs at 1–2 years old to evaluate how the color holds
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about concrete staining services.
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EpoxyLocator lists verified epoxy and concrete coating pros across the United States. All pro data is updated regularly. Last updated 2026.