Methods Of Proper Concrete Coloring

By Sharron Cantu


Pearly concrete has been of help for the past couple of years. It brought an admirable touch on the concrete in a professional way. Time has moved, and much has changed including technological improvements. This has led to changes in methods of concrete coloring with better choices coming up. This has helped as individuals can exploit their imaginations and dreams. Below are some of the ways in which this process has been successful.

Integral coloring. Production of an uniform color is evident from the mixing of concrete and colorant. The colorant is in two forms which are either liquid or powder. In instances where new installations are required, this integral is employed. It requires a mixing truck hence is used in large monochrome areas. This application is expensive, and one has to dig deep. The reason behind it is that there is total coloring to the depth of the slab.

Shakes on colors. The ingredients include fine ground pigments and dry cement. The cement is broadcasted by a freshly positioned concrete. As the process of bull floating is being undertaken, the powder is set. The bonding of cement powder with pigments is enhanced by bleeding water. Polishing and grinding removes the color from the top layer which comprises of concentrated pigments.

Acid stains. It consists of metallic salts and water formulas. A mottled and unique color effect is created once the acid reacts chemically with the present minerals. This color last enough just like the concrete its applied on. Precautions are required when handling the acid stains as they are hazardous materials. With little spill of the acid on the floor, permanent features are left.

Acetone dyes. They possess a unique characteristic of drying faster. They are also a reduction solvent. However, there are some risks associated with these dyes, highly flammable. Engaged places are not ideal for use by these dyes because they odor and toxicity. Polishing of the floor is accompanied by the coloring. In the presence of UV light, the solvent dyes are not stable regardless of the clear colors being imparted. Respirators and explosion proofs should be used.

Water based dyes. These have several advantages. They dry quickly, easy to apply, safe and odorless. There is an ease with mixing of a variety of colors which can be matched according to user taste and preference. Regardless of the size of the area, it is easy to create striking patterns and effects. Gem-like effect is created from combining it with densifying, polishing, and hardening water based stains.

Color densifier. The recent innovation has brought this particular method. It involves blending of fine pigments which happen to be suspended in the water. The applicator used has lithium silicate densified on it. There is a similarity between it and shake on color in that they are surface treatments. By applying the polish, the color is removed. On the horizontal concrete, protective treatments are ideal.

In conclusion, when making new installations, the above mentioned products will handle the job perfectly. In the case of restoration or refit, only the water based dyes, acetone dyes or acid stains will work out. Water based dyes are preferred as they help to maintain the environment.




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