True Colors
Decorative staining gives new life to concrete
With curb appeal becoming a more sophisticated art, homeowners are looking for ways to brighten up concrete driveways and patios and help them withstand the elements. It's no wonder they're turning to the exciting process of tinting and etching tired, old concrete or boring new concrete—easily but dramatically transforming the look of their homes in a cost-effective way. "Our craftsman look at the concrete as a palate on which to create a work of art," says Scott Cohen, Garden Artisan at The Green Scene in Canoga Park, CA. Concrete tinting and etching runs about $4 per square foot—about half the cost of demolition and pouring of new concrete. And with a variety of rich colors and literally thousands of etching designs available,this process can be customized to blend with the design of any home or business. The Green Scene has been working with decorative concrete since 1996 and has cultivated something of a specialty in the market. "The staining is a relatively complicated process which can result in permanent mistakes", says Cohen. "It's crucial that it is executed by someone with an artistic eye and a scientific approach to detail." |
| The color is actually "burned" into the concrete by means of an acid chemical stain available in a variety of colors—patinas, blues, browns, tan, black and coffee. The Green Scene uses special tools to etch the concrete with decorative shapes and patterns. "We've done everything from simulating flagstone to creating a ten-foot sun dial,' says Cohen. "Recently we used Cheerios soaked in acid to create darker rings of color and create depth to the staining. The
possibilities are endless." Examples of decorative concrete surround The Green Scene Design Center to lend inspiration, although staff artisans work with clients to create a unique look for each home. A final seal coat is applied after the color has cured to protect against oil stains and overall wear. "The durability is incredible, which is why concrete tinting has become more popular
in shopping centers and retail stores," says Cohen. "It maintains its beauty in spite of heavy foot traffic." Concrete etching and staining on existing concrete can be completed in about a week, while new concrete takes closer to a month to fully
cure, says Cohen. The color develops in part due to sun and water exposure and the mineral makeup of the original poured concrete, which is why Cohen recommends doing a test stain on the actual concrete well in advance. 'The very nature of this process ensures that all clients get a look uniquely suited to their individual homes," says Cohen. |
