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- 1). Scrub the concrete slabs with a mixture of 4 gallons of water and 1 cup of trisodium phosphate. This will lift any stains that might prevent the acid stain from seeping into the concrete.
- 2). Rinse the concrete slabs thoroughly. If you are working indoors, soak up the excess water with a wet vac. Otherwise, sweep the excess off and allow the slabs to dry in the sun.
- 3). Mix your acid stain. Most manufacturers instruct you to mix equal parts of stain and water, but this can vary; see the included instructions for details.
- 4). Pour the mixed stain into the reservoir of your paint sprayer. Work with a partner when applying the stain. One of you has to spray the stain using tight, circular motions while the other follows with a non-metallic scrub brush and works the stain into the concrete using the same pattern.
- 5). Allow the stain to dry. As you work, you may notice that the concrete is bubbling and the stain is leaving a residue. This is normal. Apply additional coats of stain and let the floor dry between each coat.
- 6). Mix 1/2 pound of baking soda with 5 gallons of water. Mop the floor with this solution two to three times to neutralize the acid. Again, the floor will bubble. This is normal; keep mopping until the baking soda stops reacting with the acid. If necessary, discard the solution and make a fresh batch until the floor stops bubbling.
- 7). Apply a concrete sealer. If the slabs are outside, use an exterior, solvent-based sealer. If the slabs are indoors, stick with an interior, water-based sealer. Read the manufacturer's label for complete instructions on application and drying times.
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