The 2 Primary Types of Concrete Stain

Decorative concrete is achieved through concentrated techniques that transform plain, grey concrete into something unique and beautiful. One of the most common and well-known processes for decorative concrete is staining. The process of concrete staining uses dyes and colors to add versatility and design to plain concrete. There are various types of materials used for concrete staining, including acrylic stains, integrated colors, dyes, and more. But the two primary types of stains used for decorative concrete are acid stains and water-based stains.

Continue reading to learn more about these two concrete stains, and who to call for professional concrete staining services you can trust.

Stained Concrete Contractors 317-454-3612
Stained Concrete Contractors 317-454-3612

Acid Stains

Probably the most common of the two would be acid stains. These are known to provide a rich, deep color that is lustrous and long-lasting. When acid stain is applied to cured concrete, the chemicals within react in a way that transforms the pigment of the concrete permanently. This transformation is best described as a marbleized or grainy leather look; but of course, no transformation is the same as another.

They are all unique since you can’t entirely control the way the chemicals react inside the concrete. But this is simply one of the many alluring traits of concrete staining. It is important to note however, that concrete stains do not cover blemishes and imperfections and concrete very well. The transformation is more translucent and sheer in comparison to integrated colors and dyes.

Water-Based Stains

Water-based stains are applied similarly to acid stains, however they produce a much different outcome since there is no chemical reaction involved. The transformation rendered by water-based stains are best described as semi translucent, since the stain seeps into the concrete pores much like a dye. In fact, water-based concrete stains are commonly called concrete dyes because the coloring processes are similar.

Water-based stains produce a more uniform look, offer a much broader range of colors, and they last much longer since they are penetrated within the pores of the concrete. There’s no risk of the color “flaking off” or chipping at any point in time. But keep in mind, they are similar to acid stains in that they do not completely cover surface blemishes and imperfections because they provide semi translucent finishes.

Indianapolis Concrete Staining Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional concrete staining in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial concrete services, ranging from concrete staining and stamping, to concrete repair, overlays, pressure washing, and much more. Best of all, we retain the proper resources, skills, knowledge, and equipment to accurately implement a flawless concrete staining project in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. Get started today by requesting an on-site estimate.

Restoration By L&B Provides Affordable Siding Installation and Repair Services

If your siding is beginning to fade, or appears old and worn, it may be time to consider siding replacement and installation services. Not only can this increase the visual appeal of your property, it can reduce monthly energy costs and usage, provide protection from outdoor elements, and decrease weather damage. New or restored siding can give your property an instant face lift, increasing the value of your home and its energy efficiency!

Where can you get trusted siding service and repair in Indianapolis? The answer is Restoration By L&B! Our licensed and insured siding contractors provide a wide range of siding installation and repair services for both residential and commercial properties, including fiber cement siding, vinyl siding, and wood siding.

Continue reading to learn more about various types of siding we work with, and how to get started with an on-site quote!

Indianapolis Siding Contractors 317-454-3612
Indianapolis Siding Contractors 317-454-3612

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding has several advantages. It is inexpensive, durable, and easy to maintain; making it a fantastic choice for anyone who wishes to upgrade or improve their property’s exterior. The only regular maintenance vinyl siding might require is a periodic pressure wash, once or twice a year. Vinyl siding is also available in an assortment of colors, grades, profiles, and styles that our professional siding contractors can gladly distinguish for you. It is one of the most practical choices for siding replacement and installation.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding can be your last siding installation project for the foreseeable future! This is because cement siding products are highly durable and strong. They are a composite material fashioned from sand, cement, and cellulose fibers. It can also be manufactured with 50 percent recycled materials, making it a wonderful “going green” option. It is a low-maintenance and highly durable cement siding that resembles the natural look of wood once stained or painted. It is one of the most lucrative and recommended options for homes that require siding replacement or installation.

Wood Siding

Wood is a renewable resource. It is abundant, natural, and locally-sourced, making it a great option for Eco-safe siding. It is also very easy to install, convertible, recyclable, and sustainable.  Most wood siding comes from Douglas Firs, Cypress trees, Redwood trees, Pine trees, and Cedar. It is recommended to use wood materials that are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) certified.

Why Choose Us?

Our company is dedicated to quality, service, and stability for all our customers and clients. We practice the utmost honesty and integrity within the work force, allowing us the ability to offer unparalleled customer support that goes beyond job completion. We work hard to make sure our clients are well-informed, respected, in the loop, and satisfied with our services.

We never use confusing industry jargon to explain and discuss our services; instead we use a language our clients can clearly understand. You can trust you are receiving the best home siding repairs when you witness our use of innovative design, advanced materials, and professional service.

Call Our Office Today!

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable siding installation and repair in Central Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our highly trained, qualified and insured general contractors provide services for complete project management and development, planning, design and build coordination, pre-construction services, and more.  And as a trusted source for siding work, we guarantee to beat any competitor’s price! Request an estimate, today.

FAQS Regarding Concrete Resurfacing

Are you a homeowner who is convinced that a cost-effective solution for repairing old, cracked, concrete surfaces does not exist? If so, you are in the right place! Because we are here to tell you that there ARE options, many of them, for restoring old concrete floors, driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks, and more. And best of all, they do not require a complete demolition, removal, and replacement of your existing concrete surface! This makes the price more affordable since the need for labor is reduced.

Continue reading to learn answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about concrete work and more!

Indianapolis Concrete Contractors 317-454-3612
Indianapolis Concrete Contractors 317-454-3612

What are the Different Concrete Resurfacing Options Available?

The most common methods for concrete resurfacing include concrete overlays, concrete coatings, concrete staining, and concrete stamping. These options provide infinite possibilities to mimic higher-end materials like brick, cobblestone, tile, marble, and more, as well as, customize colors, hues, seals, and finishes. You can even choose to have concrete engraved or printed with a custom emblem, symbol, logo, or picture.  

What Makes Concrete Acceptable to Resurface?

Any underlying concrete surface must be sound in order to be resurfaced successfully. So unfortunately, if a concrete surface has structural implications such as several cracks, heaving, crumbling, or freeze/thaw damage, it is not a safe candidate for resurfacing. Also, soil quality is a factor in determining the suitability of concrete resurfacing. Non-structural cracks, like shrinkage and crazing cracks, can be sealed prior to resurfacing. Talk to a contractor to assess the quality of your concrete surfaces.

Which Surfaces Can Be Resurfaced?

As long as concrete passes the test for soundness, many surfaces can be resurfaced. This includes the more common areas, like driveways, patios, sidewalks, walkways, and garage floors. But it also includes unique areas like kitchen floors, basement floors, pool decks, fire pits, decks, and more. The options are virtually endless!

What is the Most Important Priority in the Concrete Resurfacing Process?

The most important factor in terms of the concrete resurfacing process is proper preparation. The underlying concrete substrate must be thoroughly cleaned and prepped before the resurfacing process can ensue. Preparation includes cleaning, crack filling, profiling, and more.

How Long Do Resurfaced Concrete Floors Last?

Decorative concrete is known for its longevity benefits, as well as its low cost and low maintenance. If you refinish your concrete floors, you can expect to enjoy the results for as long as you can foretell. Simply take care of them and they won’t let you down! A quality sealant is a big help as well.

Where Can I Find Skilled Concrete Contractors in Indy?

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 when you need professional concrete contractors in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Our highly trained, qualified and insured general contractors provide services for complete project management and development, planning, design and build coordination, pre-construction services, and more.  And as a trusted source for concrete installation, we guarantee to beat any competitor’s price! Contact us at 317-454-3612 to request a written estimate, today.

Recommended Renovations for a New Puppy

When you decide to get a new puppy, you are bringing home more than just a pet; you’re bringing home a new member of the family that will be there with you for years to come. For this reason, why not upgrade or convert particular areas of your home to meet the needs of your new dog, as well as, make life more convenient for the rest of the family? Many homeowners have chosen this route, which has proven to reap certain benefits, including puppy cleanup, penning, and even property value!

Continue reading to learn some of the top recommended renovations to have done when adding a pup to the family.

Home Remodeling and Renovation 317-454-3612
Home Remodeling and Renovation 317-454-3612

? Doggy Door

Although it may be obvious, one of the greatest and simplest additions you can make for your new puppy is a doggy doors. You have two primary options to choose from when it comes to doggy doors; you can buy a kit and install it in an existing door, or you can purchase an entire door manufactured with a doggy door in it. Both types will range in price, quality, size, dimensions, retailers, and more. Installing such doors can be very tricky, and if not done properly, can be unsafe. So it is strongly recommended to pass on the duty to a trained handyman.

? Floor Replacement

With a potty trained pup, you might not need to worry so much about your carpets. However, most pups do not come pre-potty trained, which means you and the rest of the family will have to ride the learning curve along with your new friend. In order to maintain a hygienic and comfortable interior environment, and sanity for that matter, you should consider ripping out your carpets and installing wood, laminate, or tile floors. Hard-surfaced floors like these are much easier to clean, and retain their quality and appeal for a lot longer than carpet. Rather than replacing all of the carpet in your home, you can simply appoint a common room, and change it to another flooring material.

? Backyard Fencing

If you have a dog, it will likely want some room to run around and exert energy; otherwise, you can find yourself with an anxious, poorly behaved dog. One way to provide this privilege without jeopardizing safety is to install a property fence. There are infinite materials, styles, and designs to choose from when it comes to installing a backyard fence. You can even have your fence customized to match your home. Rather than adding a full-property fence, you can simply fence in a small area of the yard.

Indianapolis Home Remodeling and Handyman Professionals

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable building repairs in Central Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our Indianapolis general contractors provide a wide range of services for both commercial and residential properties, from general handyman services and home remodels, to full-on renovations, additions, conversions, and more. Request an estimate, today!