Stains penetrate the surface of the concrete to achieve a translucent finish that can vary in intensity depending on the application technique. They react chemically with the concrete, offering unique marbling effects and variations in color. Pigments, on the other hand, are mixed into the concrete before it is poured, resulting in a solid, consistent color throughout the slab. The choice between stains and pigments will depend on whether you prefer natural variegated effects (stains) or uniform coloration (pigments).