Return To Elegance By Transforming Concrete Surfaces (NAPSA)—Homeowners on the lookout for creative ways to add beauty and value to their home need only to look beneath their feet. AS seen at upscale shops, restaurants and model homes, ‘i 5 : fas “ss av Hy a decorative finishes lend interest and sophistication to otherwise dull concretefloors. Etching stains applied to inte- rior floors and exterior surfaces can create a multitoned finish to compare with natural stone, weathered marble ortile. The color tone is per- manently imprinted into the concrete as the etching stain chemically reacts with the concrete, resulting in a finish that will last. Transform any exterior concrete surface with QUIKRETE Etching Stain, available in rich earth tones (Coffee, Tan and Olive), and QUIKRETE Etching Stain High Gloss Sealer. Delivering a clear, highgloss topcoat, the sealer enhances the durability and color depth of the permanently etched concrete. For this project, homeowners also will need a %-inch premium roller with extension handle, roller tray, 38-inch premium brush, garden sprayer, stiff-bristled brush, wet/dry vacuum or string mop, painter’s tape and plastic to cover areas not being stained. Careful preparation of the con- "aah o Pie a -_ Upgrading concrete surfaces is a unique way to beautify your home. e Prior to staining, protect all areas not being stained with tape and plastic, and test the pressure and spray pattern of the garden sprayer with water. Dampen the entire surface to be stained but avoid standing water. e Spray the stain in a back-andforth pattern to fully saturate the concrete until entire surface is cov- ered; allow 4 hoursto dry. Remove etching residue on surface by saturating with water and scrubbing vigorously with a stiff-bristled brush. Follow scrubbing by removing residue with a wet/dry vacuum or string mop. e After surface is completely dry (18 to 24 hours), start apply- ing the protective topcoat by trimming all edges and hard to reach areas with a brush. e Roll the sealer in 2-by-6-foot areas across the etched concrete surface. If the first coat sinks in crete surface is essential to ensure the etching stain can properly react. Therefore, the surface must be cleared of all debris, grease, oil stains, sealers and paints. e While cleaning, be sure to check that the concrete is porous to 24 hours before light foot traffic If water beads on the surface, then further cleaning is necessary. visit www.quikrete.com. and will accept the etching stain. rapidly, apply a second coat after 2 hours. e Allow the surface to dry for 18 and 72 hours before heavy use. For additional project ideas,
