Color and Character Without Covering the Slab

Concrete staining and decorative finishes applied throughout Tetonia and surrounding areas.

You have existing concrete that is structurally sound but lacks visual interest. Instead of covering it with a thick coating, staining penetrates the surface and reacts with the concrete or bonds into the pores, adding color while leaving the natural texture visible. The result is a floor that looks finished without feeling synthetic.

TVS Coatings LLC offers acid stains, water-based stains, and decorative treatments for clients in Tetonia who want a natural, customized look. Acid stains create variegated, earthy tones by reacting chemically with the lime content in concrete, while water-based stains offer more consistent, predictable colors. Both options can be layered, scored, or masked to create patterns, borders, or color zones, and they work well in basements, patios, retail spaces, and living areas.

If you want to refresh or customize your concrete in Tetonia without applying a full coating system, reach out to discuss stain options and see examples of completed work.

How Stain Gets Into the Concrete and Stays There

The process starts with cleaning the concrete in your Tetonia property to remove dirt, oils, and any existing sealers that would block penetration. For acid stains, the solution is applied with a sprayer or brush and left to react for several hours, creating the color through a chemical interaction with the minerals in the slab. For water-based stains, pigment is absorbed into the pores and sets as it dries.

Once the stain cures, you will notice a color shift that varies with the age, porosity, and composition of the concrete. The surface retains its original texture, so trowel marks, aggregate, and subtle imperfections remain visible, which adds to the natural appearance. A clear sealer is applied to lock in the color and protect the surface from staining and moisture.

Staining works best on concrete that has not been heavily sealed or coated before. TVS Coatings LLC tests the surface during the estimate to confirm stain will absorb properly, and adjusts the approach if prior treatments are present.

Common Concerns About Staining Existing Concrete

Homeowners and business owners in Tetonia often want to know how the color will turn out, whether the stain will fade, and what kind of prep is required. These are the questions that come up most during site evaluations.

What is the difference between acid and water-based stains?
Acid stains react with the concrete to create variegated, earth-tone colors that vary across the surface. Water-based stains use pigment that soaks into the pores and offers more consistent, predictable colors with a wider range of hues.
How long does stained concrete last?
Because the stain penetrates into the slab, it does not peel or chip like a surface coating. The color remains as long as the concrete itself is intact, though UV exposure can fade some water-based stains over time if not sealed properly.
Can you stain concrete that already has a sealer on it?
No, stain requires direct access to the pores of the concrete. If a sealer or coating is present, TVS Coatings LLC will grind or strip the surface first to allow the stain to absorb.
What kind of maintenance does stained concrete need?
You sweep or mop the surface as needed and reapply sealer every few years depending on traffic and exposure. The sealer protects the stain and makes the floor easier to clean without altering the underlying color.
Why does the color look different in different areas?
Concrete porosity, age, and mineral content vary across a slab, so stain reacts differently in each area. That natural variation is part of the look, and it is more pronounced with acid stains than water-based options.

If you want to add color and character to your concrete in Tetonia without covering its texture, staining offers a durable, low-maintenance option. Learn more by contacting TVS Coatings LLC to review stain samples and discuss your project.