Are you considering using colored concrete for your project? You might have some questions about how it works and what to expect. We've gathered the most frequently asked questions about colored concrete to provide you with comprehensive answers. If you can't find the information you're looking for here, feel free to reach out to us at info@daviscolors.com. We value your inquiries and are also interested in hearing from contractors or operators who may have insights to share.
Does colored concrete fade?
The color in colored concrete is derived from pure inorganic pigments, which are produced through a process of oxidizing metal. This process essentially "fixes" the color in the pigment powder concentrate, making it resistant to fading. In fact, this pigment is the same active ingredient used in permanent coloring applications like tattoos.
However, it's essential to understand that the concrete itself can undergo changes over time due to exposure to the elements. Even uncolored concrete can turn yellow, accumulate dirt and grime, and darken as it's exposed to the environment. Colored concrete follows a similar pattern. To maintain its appearance, it's crucial to source concrete from a supplier offering durable mixes and hire experienced installers who specialize in finishing architectural concrete. Additionally, protecting colored concrete with periodic applications of a high-quality clear sealer will help maintain its fresh look.
Where can I find colored concrete?
If you're a homeowner looking to use colored concrete, a great place to start is the yellow pages or your local newspaper. Search for concrete contractors, landscape contractors, or contact your local ready-mix concrete supplier for recommendations on reputable concrete contractors. If you're an architect, you can simply specify the Davis Color you desire in your plans or specifications.
For a more convenient way to locate a color supplier for concrete, you can use our supplier locator. For architects, specifying the Davis Color you want in your plans or specifications is a straightforward approach.
How much does coloring concrete add to the cost?
The cost of adding color to concrete typically increases the overall cost by approximately 10% to 30% compared to uncolored concrete. However, it's important to note that this additional cost is a fraction of the total installed cost. The exact cost variation depends on the chosen color and whether you opt for intricate finishes and textures provided by skilled contractors.
Is it okay to sprinkle water on fresh colored concrete?
No, it's not advisable to sprinkle water on fresh colored concrete. While this is a common method for curing uncolored concrete, it can lead to undesirable consequences for colored concrete. Sprinkling water can lighten or whiten the concrete's appearance, which is not ideal. Additionally, if your water source has a high mineral content (hard water), it can cause efflorescence, resulting in white salt deposits on the surface, further detracting from the appearance.
The best way to cure colored concrete is to apply a product like W-1000 Clear™ cure and seal. Some contractors might try other cure sealers, but it's essential to ensure they are compatible with colored concrete. Solvent-based sealers can work well, but many water-based sealers are not recommended, as they may turn white or yellow with sun exposure.
Do I need to apply a sealer to colored concrete?
While it's not mandatory, sealing your colored concrete is a wise choice. Colored concrete will harden like regular concrete, but all concrete benefits from sealing to protect against stains and water damage. Sealing your colored concrete will not only prolong its aesthetic appeal but also help prevent surface dusting.
Why is my fresh colored concrete darker than the color card?
Freshly poured concrete, whether colored or uncolored, always appears darker when wet or during the early curing stages. It's crucial to allow the concrete to harden and dry for a minimum of 7 to 10 days to see its true color. Factors such as the cement color, sand color, water content, and finishing techniques also influence the final appearance. If the concrete is placed on a wet subgrade or in an area with underground water, it may remain dark as long as it remains moist.
Why do some areas of my colored concrete appear darker than others?
If your colored concrete is less than two weeks old, some variations in color can be attributed to the concrete drying and curing process, as it gradually reaches a uniform color. However, if certain dark areas persist while the rest of the concrete is drying, you may be dealing with a condition known as "Entrapped Moisture."
Entrapped moisture can lead to random dark areas that differ in shade from unaffected areas, and it may follow specific patterns, such as areas that were "hard troweled" or where edging and jointing tools were used. To address this, scrub the dark spots with a stiff bristle brush and flush with water. This process may need to be repeated over a few days to achieve uniform coloration. For concrete older than two weeks, wet the dark spots with water, apply white vinegar, and scrub with a stiff brush. Eliminating entrapped moisture may require multiple treatments.
Can the color be guaranteed to match the color card?
Unfortunately, we cannot provide a guarantee that the final color will precisely match the color card. Several factors, including cement color, sand color, water content, and finishing methods, influence the concrete's ultimate appearance. Our commitment is to ensure that our color additives consistently match our standard, maintaining consistency from batch to batch and year to year.
