Hi Aleda. No, the H&C ColorTop is not a true stain. If you look at the data sheets here, it clearly states in the application section that it is a coating. This product, like others, is a water-based acrylic coating heavily tinted with colored pigments. I suggest you read our article on acid stained and color dyed floors. It explains exactly what a true stain is and the steps required to apply them.

Hi Meg. Just so that you are aware, H&C ColorTop Stain does not permanently stain concrete and masonry. It’s a thin acrylic sealer. Think of it as translucent tinted paint. If it peels, it will expose the brick color.

Random question you may have insight to! I’m looking to stain my exterior brick (not the mother). Would the H&C Colortop concrete stain work for something like this?

I appreciate your input!

Hi Becky. Don’t use the pressure washer for the first rinse of the vinegar solution. It will drive the solution deeper into the concrete where it may remain active (not good). Rinse first with heavy water using a standard nozzle on a garden hose. After that, you can rinse once more with the pressure washer.

The stain may or may not help to camouflage the lines. It all depends on how much they fade and the stain colors used. The look of acid stain is hard to control because it reacts with the free lime and other minerals present in the concrete. When a sealer is applied, it’s going to make the stain color/s pop as well as other imperfections and colors. What the concrete looks like wet is similar to what it will be like with a clear sealer on it.