Water-based Stains Offer Environmentally Friendly Options

by Kimberly Hegeman
Created: February 11, 2011

Many contractors are attracted to the characteristics of water-based stains for a variety of jobs, especially those in the decorative realm.

Since water-based stains have a slower evaporation rate, the stains stay on the concrete longer giving the color a longer time to sink into the concrete.
Since water-based stains have a slower evaporation rate, the stains stay on the concrete longer giving the color a longer time to sink into the concrete.
Water-based concrete stains offer multiple benefits including low VOC content, easier clean up and a large color selection.
Water-based concrete stains offer multiple benefits including low VOC content, easier clean up and a large color selection.
Proper surface preparation is essential when using water-based stains. The stain soaks into the concrete so the concrete needs to be clean and dry.
Proper surface preparation is essential when using water-based stains. The stain soaks into the concrete so the concrete needs to be clean and dry.

Environmentally friendly companions

If you’re looking to install a decorative concrete project with a low environmental impact, water-based stains are a great start. But there are other decorative products that can be used in conjunction with these stains to help keep the project environmentally friendly.

Low-VOC, water-based sealers are a great option for sealing water-based stains. These sealers contain less or even no fumes compared to solvent-based sealers, which make them a great option for indoor working environments, especially those where ventilation may be a problem or where people will be present during the work. They also do not contain chemicals that could harm the landscape around the concrete, Darmstaedter adds.

Water-based sealers usually will not darken the color of the stain or concrete like solvent-based sealers might. This could be a benefit or a drawback depending on what the customer wants, Nielsen says. Also, water-based sealers are available in a matte or gloss finish giving a more natural look to the finished decorative job.