A Weekend Project with Big-Time Curb Appeal

Staining your exterior concrete might sound like a big project—but it’s easier than you think. The Stain My Exterior Concrete Project Kit includes the professional-grade materials you’ll need to prep, stain, and seal patios, porches, walkways, and more. This guide will walk you through each step of the process, including a simple list of tools to have on hand for best results. 

Please Note: colors on screen vary from device to device. It is important to test the color(s) chosen on your own concrete surface. 4 oz test samples of all Eco-Stain colors can be purchased here.

  Before You Begin This Project  

Please read through all of the instructions, Technical Data Sheets (TDS), Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and review all of the materials and tools required to ensure you have everything needed for the project.

Materials Included in the Stain My Exterior Concrete Project Kit:

• SureCrete SCR Cleaner and Degreaser
• SureCrete Eco-Stain Water-Based Concrete Stain
• SureCrete HS 200LV Concrete Sealer

Tools Needed:

• Extendable Brush/Roller/Broom Handle
• 1-Gallon Plastic Pump-Up Sprayer
• 9" Paint Tray
• 4" Roller Frame/Cover
• 9" Roller Frame/Cover
• 2" Painter’s Tape
• 48" Masking Film
• Stiff Bristle Brush
• Gloves
• Safety Glasses
• Microfiber Applicator/Handle
  

  Watch the STEP-BY-STEP Process  

From prep to stain to seal, this quick video shows the entire process using the products from your kit. It’s a great way to get familiar with the materials and techniques before you get started. 

Full written instructions are included below, and there’s a downloadable version too, if you want to keep it handy.

Please note: This video uses a different sealer than what is included in this kit, but the application is the same.

  Prepare Your Surface  

1. Remove any leaves, twigs, rock or other loose particles from the surface with a leaf blower or broom.
2. Clean the surface using a pressure washer (3000 psi), or a garden hose and stiff bristle brush, to remove any dirt or accumulated grime.
3. Consider protecting any finish surfaces near the project by using 48” masking film and blue painter’s tape to secure the film to surrounding surfaces.

SureCrete SCR Cleaner and Degreaser

4. Mix SureCrete SCR 1:1 with water and pour into a pump-up sprayer.
5. Spray across the entire surface and you will see the surface start to fizz and foam.
6. Use a stiff bristle brush to work the SCR down into the concrete.

7. Ensure the surface remains partially damp during the process to allow for good penetration.
8. Neutralize the surface with water and allow to dry BEFORE STAINING YOUR CONCRETE.

  Stain Your Concrete  

SureCrete Eco-Stain Water-Based Stain

9. Shake the bottle of Eco-Stain thoroughly to ensure all the pigment is incorporated.
10. Mix 3 parts water to 1 part stain in a clean bucket and pour into a pump-up sprayer.
11. Apply using a circular motion to avoid overlap marks or patterns from the sprayer.

12. Surface should remain slightly damp during application to allow for good penetration.
13. Let your stain dry overnight, then gently use a dry microfiber/Swiffer pad on the surface. This will lift off any extra pigment or dust sitting on top. Excess stain pigment must be removed for best sealer adhesion.
14. Once that’s done, you’re ready to seal and protect your newly stained concrete. 

Please note: SureCrete Eco-Stain dries a few shades lighter. To maintain the bold color you see when wet, a color-enhancing sealer, like SureCrete HS 200LV, must be used. 

  Seal and Protect Your Concrete  

SureCrete HS 200LV Concrete Sealer

15. Stir the gallon of HS 200LV and then pour it into a clean roller pan.
16. Cut in along edges using a small roller or brush to create a clean line and avoid material getting onto surrounding surfaces.

17. Use a traditional 9” roller to apply material uniformly over the remainder of the surface. Ensure there are no missed spots, or areas of heavy accumulation or puddles.
18. ALLOW 24 HOURS to fully cure before foot traffic.
19. When first coat is able to be walked on, it may receive a second coat. While many applications are complete with a single coat, always evaluate surface to see if a second coat is needed.

  You're Ready to Make it Happen  

With the right materials, a solid plan, and a little effort, you can completely transform your outdoor concrete in just a weekend. Whether it’s your first time staining or you’ve tackled concrete projects before, the Stain My Exterior Concrete Kit makes it easy to get results you’ll be proud of.

Don't forget, there’s a downloadable version of these instructions too, if you want to keep it handy.

If you have any questions along the way, we’re here to help. Reach out anytime at contact@diyconcretemail.com—we’re happy to support you at any step.