Friday, July 25, 2014

Brief Explanation Of Concrete Coloring Ways

By Sharron Cantu


Dating some years back, the beauty brought about by pearly concrete floors has been admirable. Advancement in living standards of people, there has been many changes hence the old floors has been abandoned. New styles of floors have been promoted which has unlimited color choices depending on your imaginations and dreams. There are however several ways which should be followed to ensure the ideal concrete coloring is achieved.

The integral coloring. Once there is the mixing of colorant and concrete, production of uniform color is the results. The colorant exists in two forms namely powder form or liquid form. This method is applied where there is a new installation. Large monochrome areas are the targets as the procedure requires the mixing truck. Before undertaking this application, you should be well informed as it is a bit expensive. This is because it touches to the depth of the slab.

Shakes on colors. The ingredients include fine ground pigments and dry cement. The cement is broadcasted by a freshly positioned concrete. As the process of bull floating is being undertaken, the powder is set. The bonding of cement powder with pigments is enhanced by bleeding water. Polishing and grinding removes the color from the top layer which comprises of concentrated pigments.

Acid stains. It consists of metallic salts and water formulas. A mottled and unique color effect is created once the acid reacts chemically with the present minerals. This color last enough just like the concrete its applied on. Precautions are required when handling the acid stains as they are hazardous materials. With little spill of the acid on the floor, permanent features are left.

Acetone dyes. They possess a unique characteristic of drying faster. They are also a reduction solvent. However, there are some risks associated with these dyes, highly flammable. Engaged places are not ideal for use by these dyes because they odor and toxicity. Polishing of the floor is accompanied by the coloring. In the presence of UV light, the solvent dyes are not stable regardless of the clear colors being imparted. Respirators and explosion proofs should be used.

Water based dyes. These have several advantages. They dry quickly, easy to apply, safe and odorless. There is an ease with mixing of a variety of colors which can be matched according to user taste and preference. Regardless of the size of the area, it is easy to create striking patterns and effects. Gem-like effect is created from combining it with densifying, polishing, and hardening water based stains.

Color densifiers. This has been, as a result, of recent innovation in which there have been blending of fine pigments which are suspended in water. An applicator is used which lithium silicate has densified. There is some likeness between them and shake on colors in that they happen to be surface treatments. Therefore, color is removed by applying polish. Protective treatments are recommended in case an individual has horizontal concrete or inside.

To conclude, the above stated products handle the job well in new installations. Refit or restoration cases, require acid stains, acetone dyes or the water-based dyes to work. In the maintenance of the environment, water based dyes are recommended.




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