- 1). Sand your cement floors with a buffing machine, per the buffing machine's instructions. According to Concrete Network, many professionals prefer to use this method, choosing 60-, 80- or 100-grit sandpaper. A thorough sanding will no only smooth out uneven surfaces, but will also remove paint splatters, drywall, glue and tape residue. Vacuum up sanding dust.
- 2). Scrub the floor with soap and water using the buffing machine fitted with scrubbing pad, making sure all grease and oil have been removed. Use a wet-dry vacuum to remove any standing water. Let floor dry completely.
- 3). Use painter's tape and plastic drop cloths to mask off walls, baseboards or any other areas that you do not want stained.
- 4). Mix the concrete stain with water, diluting it per the manufacturer's instructions. Generally, the more water, the lighter the resulting stain color. Keep in mind, however, that freshly poured cement will absorb more stain than older cement, so if your cement is older it may require a higher concentration of stain. Test your stain in a hidden area before staining the entire room.
- 5). Spray the stain directly onto the cement floor, holding the sprayer 8 to 12 inches from the floor and spraying in sweeping patterns.
- 6). Scrub the freshly stained cement with a broom as soon as it has been sprayed. During this step it is a good idea to have a helper to follow behind the sprayer, scrubbing immediately. When the entire room or area has been stained, allow it to dry for at least 24 hours.
- 7). Open windows for ventilation. Apply the sealer with the paint roller. Allow it to dry completely; do not touch or walk on the sealer for at least 24 hours. Leave windows open during the entire process, if possible.
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