Today there are a wide variety of products available to change the look of dull, gray concrete. Integral color concrete is created when pigment is added to the mix before a slab is laid. It is well dispersed throughout the mixture, resulting in a locking in of the pigment. This means that fading does not occur and there is no colored dust.
These pigments usually consist of a blend of synthetic or natural iron-oxide pigments that disperse easily when mixed. They are available from many different suppliers, a number of whom have online websites. Charts are provided by suppliers of the different colors available. It must be born in mind that colors seen on these charts may not be exactly reproduced. Variations can occur due to differences in what is seen on computer screens as well as due to the cement used, aggregates and method of application.
Many of the colors available are dark, earthy tones as they need to be able to stand up against the gray base of the cement. Lighter shades can be used with white cement but this is much more costly. Using pigments is an easy option for decorating projects. They are used for driveways, floors, walls and even counter tops. When used for counter tops a smooth, lustrous marble-like finish can be created by polishing. Another popular usage is for stair risers and treads.
One can select from liquid, granular or powdered forms. The powdered form is widely available in packages and can be used for smaller projects. For a larger project, the liquid form is usually selected. It is better if this liquid is mixed in by the ready-mix company as consistency of the mix is important. These companies often have computer-controlled dispensing systems that offer precision doses. The company from which you purchase the product may offer delivery to the ready-mix company in plastic pails.
The dosage amount is based on cement content and nothing else. When it comes to major factors that affect final colors, the most critical is water to cement ratio. Controlling the amount of water added to the concrete mix is critical to producing consistency. The addition of water lightens the final effect. Thorough mixing of pigment is also vital as improper mixing causes streaking and inconsistencies.
As the pigment is dispersed throughout the slab, colors do not wear away. The pigments are chemically stable and so do not fade over time from exposure to weather or ultraviolet light. Applying a clear sealer can provide additional protection from chemicals, oils and grease stains. There are also aesthetic benefits to applying a sealer as sheen is added.
Costs of products vary according to colors chosen and to the form in which the product is purchased. Powdered pigments are purchased in packages of differing sizes. Liquid pigments are more expensive. However, costs of labor when using these products are less than when using products that are applied and worked into the surface after it is laid.
These products are ideal for achieving uniform tones with no variations. They are easily used and small or large projects can be tackled. There are a wide range of colored pigments available in different forms. Selection is based on cost and on what is suited to a particular project.
These pigments usually consist of a blend of synthetic or natural iron-oxide pigments that disperse easily when mixed. They are available from many different suppliers, a number of whom have online websites. Charts are provided by suppliers of the different colors available. It must be born in mind that colors seen on these charts may not be exactly reproduced. Variations can occur due to differences in what is seen on computer screens as well as due to the cement used, aggregates and method of application.
Many of the colors available are dark, earthy tones as they need to be able to stand up against the gray base of the cement. Lighter shades can be used with white cement but this is much more costly. Using pigments is an easy option for decorating projects. They are used for driveways, floors, walls and even counter tops. When used for counter tops a smooth, lustrous marble-like finish can be created by polishing. Another popular usage is for stair risers and treads.
One can select from liquid, granular or powdered forms. The powdered form is widely available in packages and can be used for smaller projects. For a larger project, the liquid form is usually selected. It is better if this liquid is mixed in by the ready-mix company as consistency of the mix is important. These companies often have computer-controlled dispensing systems that offer precision doses. The company from which you purchase the product may offer delivery to the ready-mix company in plastic pails.
The dosage amount is based on cement content and nothing else. When it comes to major factors that affect final colors, the most critical is water to cement ratio. Controlling the amount of water added to the concrete mix is critical to producing consistency. The addition of water lightens the final effect. Thorough mixing of pigment is also vital as improper mixing causes streaking and inconsistencies.
As the pigment is dispersed throughout the slab, colors do not wear away. The pigments are chemically stable and so do not fade over time from exposure to weather or ultraviolet light. Applying a clear sealer can provide additional protection from chemicals, oils and grease stains. There are also aesthetic benefits to applying a sealer as sheen is added.
Costs of products vary according to colors chosen and to the form in which the product is purchased. Powdered pigments are purchased in packages of differing sizes. Liquid pigments are more expensive. However, costs of labor when using these products are less than when using products that are applied and worked into the surface after it is laid.
These products are ideal for achieving uniform tones with no variations. They are easily used and small or large projects can be tackled. There are a wide range of colored pigments available in different forms. Selection is based on cost and on what is suited to a particular project.
