Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Concrete Joint & Acid Staining

Hello everyone! I have a 12x28 screen porch with a poured concrete slab that I am planning to acid stain. The screen porch was part of an addition done about 15 years ago. When I pulled up the glue down carpet that was on the porch, I discovered a 1/8" joint between the house slab and the addition. There doesn't appear to be any kind of caulk or expansion material in this joint. Does anyone see any harm in caulking this joint after the staining - or would you recommend some other method of treating it? My main concern is that it's a bit of an eyesore, though I'm assuming it wouldn't be a good idea to seal it with something that isn't flexible. (I should mention we live in central Florida - so no freeze worries)

Also... does anyone have any hints, tips or bewares for concrete staining? We're planning to use Kemiko Acid Stain with a clear sealer based on some good reviews I've read.

Thanks in advance for your advice and feedback. :)

The caulk after the stain would be exactly what you need. It's better than an inflexible material anyway, especially for a joint that is only 1/8 inch wide.

Make sure that before you acid stain, you get ALL of the carpet glue, paint, sealer, etc. off the floor. If the stain cannot penetrate, it can't chemically react and achieve its intended color. Also, keep in mind that acid stain hides absolutely nothing. It will enhance all defects.

If you've never done it before, do your research! There are acid stain forums, videos, books, etc. Above all, don't look to the folks at Home Depot, Lowes, or Menards to help you with info. They don't even know what acid stain IS, much less how to apply it. It is a very specialized product. I've done acid staining for years and still occasionally run into problems.

Pecos