Monday, April 21, 2014

The Benefits Of Using Integral Color Concrete

By Essie Osborn


Using colored pigments can transform drab and gray surfaces into fun and inviting ones. Integral color concrete provides an easy way of applying colors. The pigment is thoroughly dispersed throughout the mixture before application, thus creating a long, lasting uniform look. Even if the surface experiences wear, the color does not fade.

Iron-oxide pigments, either natural or synthetic, are used in creating the colors. Charts are supplied for customers to view. If viewing these charts online, remember that what is seen on a computer screen may not be identically reflected in the actual product. Factors such as the aggregate and type of cement as well as how the mix is applied can also affect the final color achieved.

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.

This product comes in different forms. It is available in powdered form, coming in packages that can be purchased from many different sources. The powdered form has good tinting strength and is suitable for use on a smaller project. The liquid form is better for mixing and storing and is usually used for large areas. It blends better than the powder and is often mixed in at the ready-mix plants, using computer controlled systems for accurate dosing.

Mixing of the product into the mix at the plant is preferable as this enables it to be mixed more thoroughly than if it is added to the mix at the site. If thorough mixing does not occur, the end result is affected and streaking may occur. Another problem is when extra water is added during application as the end result may be much lighter than what is expected.

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.

Coloring concrete obviously adds to costs of your project. However, the fact that the pigment does not have to be applied and worked in to the surface after it is laid, cuts down on labor costs. The liquid pigment costs more than the powdered type but it is less messy to handle, easier to store and faster to blend than the powder. The product chosen will obviously depend on your budget and the nature of your project.

Using these products offers many advantages. You will have a surface that is not only attractive to look at but one that is long lasting. Even if the surface wears, it does not affect its color. It is suitable for a variety of different projects, both large and small and is easy to use.




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