How-to Apply Solid Color Concrete Stain | Behr

How to Apply BEHR PREMIUM® Solid Color Concrete Stain

This durable, weather-resistant, solid color stain is designed to help protect and enhance both exterior and interior, vertical and horizontal concrete surfaces.

For Best Results:

Be sure the surface is properly prepped before applying the solid color concrete stain.

If you have a new or uncoated surface, please refer to our how-to: Preparation of Uncoated Concrete for Paints & Stains.

If you have a previously coated or weathered surface, please refer to our how-to: Preparation of Coated Concrete for Paints & Stains.

Suggested Tools & Supplies
  • Bucket

  • Broom (Stiff Bristle)

  • Brush (2"-2½")

  • Bucket Grid

  • Chemical Resistant Gloves

  • Extension Pole

  • Hose

  • High Pressure Nozzle

  • Mop

  • Paint Can Opener

  • Paint Tray

  • Paint Tray Liner

  • Protective Apparel

  • Pump Sprayer

  • Rags

  • Roller Cover

  • Roller Frame

  • Stir Stick

How to Coat a Concrete Surface

  • Step 1

    Once the surface is properly prepped, you are ready to apply the concrete stain.  Make sure to stir the stain before applying. Apply a thin, even coat using a 3/8" nap roller cover, pad applicator or nylon-polyester brush.

  • Step 2

    Cut in with your brush to coat the perimeter of your surface, next to the wall.

  • Step 3

    Apply the stain, using long even strokes.  Apply in one direction to avoid lap lines. Apply the stain when air and surface temperatures are between 50-90 degrees F. Since concrete varies in texture and porosity, 2 coats may be required for uniform appearance.

    TIP: The spread rate on a rough surface is approximately 400-500 sq. ft and on a smooth surface, 500-600 sq. ft.

  • Step 4

    Allow the first coat to dry for at least 2-4 hours before re-coating, if necessary. Apply the second coat in a criss-cross direction for uniformity of appearance.

    TIP: Use soap and water for any clean-up.

  • Step 5

    The surface must be fully cured before use.

    Allow 24 hours for light foot traffic.
    Allow 72 hours for heavy foot traffic and furniture.
    Allow 14 days before subjecting to automotive tires.
    Allow 30 days before rinsing or cleaning with a mild detergent.

    TIP: If necessary, corrugated cardboard may be placed under auto tires after 72 hours.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Orange calculator icon in a white bubble

PAINT AND STAIN CALCULATOR

Inside or outside; paint or stain: Let’s figure out how much you’ll need to make amazing happen.

Calculate

ASK AN EXPERT

Every project is unique: Keep small wrinkles from becoming big problems by letting the Behr Technical Experts lend a hand.

Get Expert Help

CONNECT WITH PRO REFERRAL - POWERED BY THE HOME DEPOT

Let Pro Referral do the leg work and match you with quality local painters.

Find a Painter
CUSTOMIZE & BUY
Tahitian sky
Small Behr logoS480-5
Compare
BLACK
BLACK
What sheen do I need?
8 Oz. Sample
1 Gallon
1 Quart
5 Gallon
The following product(s) is required to properly prep uncoated and previously coated concrete surfaces.
Required product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
$0.00
The following product(s) is required to properly prep uncoated and previously coated concrete surfaces. Only available in store at Home Depot.
Required 3rd party product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
The 9 in. x 1/4 in. Polyester Adhesive Roller Cover has a hard texture, making it ideal for applying all types of adhesives to smooth surfaces. It can be used for stippling and applying sand paints.
The following product(s) is recommended when a topcoat clear finish is desired.
$0.00
The Home Depot logoSold Exclusively at The Home Depot