Builders Instructions

The final appearance of stained floor project will be determined primarily by the quality of the concrete pour, the finish of the slab surface and the ongoing protection of that slab during construction. The builder should be responsible for relaying all of the following information to the concrete contractor, the concrete finisher and all sub-contractors involved. Communication of these issues to all construction personnel is vital to the success of any staining project.

General slab components for interior and/or exterior flatwork:

  • Five (5) sack mix

  • Usually a smooth but porous machine trowel finish

  • Not too slick or too hard

  • Swirls from troweling will add uniqueness to the floor

  • Standard mixture with no additives, fillers or curing agents

  • Texturing (broom drags) may be desired for exterior slip resistance

  • Allow slab to dry for 24 hours before any foot traffic

  • No to little fly ash

  • No moisture restrictors

  • If a wet cure is called upon, place burl lap over concrete. Plastic will create folds/lines and leave an unfavorable impression.

These issues will have an adverse impact upon the quality of the finished stained floor:

  • DO NOT use additives, fillers, or curing agents, if possible

  • DO NOT apply a CURE and SEAL as this will need to be mechanical ground off altering the final look

  • DO NOT cover slab during early construction as it needs to cure for 4 to 6 weeks

  • DO NOT nail support studs into the concrete

  • DO NOT spill or drip plumber’s glue of flux onto the slab

  • DO NOT use paint sprays to locate floor plan locations or outlets

  • DO NOT tape or adhere anything to the slab

  • DO NOT use muratic acid, acid washes or acid etch at any time

  • DO NOT use alkali cleaners on the slab

  • DO NOT leave or place wood on the slab as it will leave an impression

  • DO NOT leave nails or metal on the slab as they will create rust marks

  • DO NOT use silicone based chalk or crayon as removal is near impossible without sanding

  • DO NOT drip or spill plastering, texturing materials or paints on slab. We recommend to use heavy duty temporary floor protection after the slab has cured.

Some additional issues:

  • Protect the slab well during the installation of blown insulation (foam and fiber)

  • Pest control products that are petroleum based should not come in contact with the floor

  • Always allow complete curing of any patching or pour back before attempting to stain