Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Purchasing Of Integral Color Concrete

By Sally Delacruz


A variety of colors are available today that can be added to concrete. They come in different forms and can be added in a number of ways. Each method offers certain advantages and disadvantages. One of the main advantages to using integral color concrete is that the color extends throughout the slab. This means that even if it is abraded, chipped or scratched, it does not lose color. This method also offers savings in labor as the mixing occurs before the slab is thrown.

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.

Iron-oxide pigments are basically black, red and yellow. These colors are then combined in different ratios to produce the many other colors available. Charts can be found on websites of suppliers showing a wide variety of attractive, earthy colors. Customers must be aware that the exact color seen on the chart may be reproduce exactly due to factors like the types of cement used and methods of application.

The liquid form of the product is normally used in larger applications. Many ready mix plants have systems to dispense this liquid into a batch as it is being mixed. It comes in a bucket or pail which can be delivered directly to the ready mix plant by the supplier. This enables a precise amount to be added and allows for thorough mixing to take place to prevent any streaking for occurring.

The granular and powdered forms are packages in bags, often disintegrating ones which can be added without opening. Quantities vary and one can purchase an amount most suitable for a particular project. Once again, it is important to make sure that the product is mixed in very well to ensure even distribution.

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.

Cost of application using this method may be more than when just applying colors to the surface of a slab such as when using shake-on hardener. As most cements have a graying effect, some of these colors should only be added to very light or white cement and this can also push costs up. Liquid pigments will usually cost more but they do have the advantage of blending easily and being less messy. Fortunately, labor usually costs less due to the fact that pigment is mixed in before application, so no extra costs are added to apply it.

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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