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Points To Consider When Buying Integral Color Concrete

By Sally Delacruz


Today many different colors are available to turn concrete from a boring gray into something more exciting. Integral color concrete can be purchased from many different sources, coming in different quantities and forms. The application is different in that they are added to batches before laying, causing the color to extend right through the batch, instead of just being applied to a surface. This has the advantage of making it more durable as it does not disappear even if there is chipping or scratching.

One can purchase such a product in powdered, granular or liquid form. The colors come from iron-oxide pigment and both natural and synthetic forms are used, with the tinting strength of synthetic ones being stronger. The hue of colors is subtle rather than intense as is possible when using other methods.

The red, yellow and black of the iron-oxide pigments are used to produce many different hues according to the ratio in which they are blended. Suppliers usually have charts on their websites, showing the different soft earthy tones available. Customers must bear in mind that colors appearing on these charts may not be identically reproduced due to various factors such as the type of cement used, how it is applied and even due to variations in computer screens.

In its liquid form, suppliers usually sell these products in pails. Most ready mix plants are equipped to add these colors to batches with dispensing systems. Pails are often delivered directly from suppliers to the plant. The precise amount required can easily be added to a batch and mixed thoroughly enough to obtain a cohesive mix.

Dry pigments are packaged in disintegrating bags of different sizes, from 1 to 25 pounds or more. These are usually used for smaller projects and the whole bag can be added without having to open it and create a mess. Thorough mixing is extremely important or streaking can occur.

When the process of laying a slab takes place, consistency is key. Adding extra water, for example, can cause the end result to be lighter than desired. Even splashing the surface with water after it is laid can have a lightening effect.

The cost of these products is usually higher than that of others due to the fact that application is not just to the surface. However, labor costs are less for this very reason. Liquid products cost more but they do have advantages such as being less messy and easier to blend. When using certain colors, it is a mistake to use any cement other than light or white ones and this can add to costs.

Buying such products from online suppliers is convenient and time saving. When amounts are ordered for larger projects like driveways, the supplier will usually deliver the product straight to the ready mix plant. Smaller pre-measured quantities in bags also offer a convenient option for smaller projects. The colors offered are subtle and long lasting, not fading easily or disappearing with any abrading.




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