From intricate residential patio work to decorative flooring ... of colors and are nonreactive. They deliver color by penetrating concrete or other porous cementitious surfaces, such as overlays.

However, concrete can be too new to acid stain. If you have a freshly poured patio, there are two metrics it should meet first. It needs to be at least 28 days old and completely one, consistent color ...

Water-based concrete stains are safer and easier to apply to the entire patio, but may offer a more limited color palette. Furthermore, like most types of stain, there are different levels of opacity.