A Guide to Concrete Stain Colors

January 29, 2026

Stains are a great way to add color to concrete both indoors and out. They are frequently used on interior concrete flooring and outdoor patios and more to impart rich colors. Bob Harris of the Decorative Concrete Institute describes stains as producing an organic look with a rich patina and warm variegated color effects. Stains are best known for earthy colors, however in recent years the palette has begun to expand.

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CONCRETE ACID STAIN COLORS

Acid stains provide natural color and depth to concrete floors and other surfaces. Many homeowners are attracted to the transparent, variegated finish that these stains impart. The palette for acid stains is usually limited to earthy tones, such as tans, browns, terra cottas and soft blue-greens.

Blush-Tone Acid Stain:

These sample colors from Brickform can give you an idea of the types of hues available.

Acid Stain Color Chart (PDF).

WATER-BASED STAIN COLORS

Comparatively, water-based stains come in a much broader range of hues, including black, white and even vivid yellow or orange. According to Chris Sullivan, author of the e-book Concrete Staining Today, the introduction of new stain technology allows contractors to achieve colors and finishes that are even more unique then those previously obtained from classic acid-based stains alone.

Brickform ARTesian Water-Based Stain Colors:

These sample colors from Brickform can give you an idea of the variety of shades available.

Water-Based Stain Color Chart (PDF).

CONCRETE DYE COLORS

Dyes take the color vibrancy up another level. Often used on polished concrete floors or to make bold graphics, logos or stenciled designs.

DCI Solvent-Based Dye:

Here is a sample of possible colors for concrete using concrete dyes. Shown here are the dyes used over gray concrete, they will look different over polished concrete or a skim coat.