Colour new and existing concrete for a stylish and functional look.  We use mainly integral mix. Stain when multiple colours are requested.  Dyes often mixed onsite to lend a more vibrant shade. Colour hardener to wet the surface for that subtle finish. Colour and sealant can really make a difference. 

 

Integral Colour COLOUR CHART

The most popular method to colour concrete is an integral pigment. This admixture gives a rich long-lasting and fade resistant colour. Integral is great on it's own or can be used to accent stain or dyes. This colour option extends throughout the concrete and comes in a powdered or liquid form. 

 

Release Agents COLOUR CHART

A release agent is what keeps the rubber stamp mat from sticking to the concrete. We use liquid or powder release. Powder is an older technique involving the spreading of coloured powder over wet concrete.  It is messy but gives a very unique effect.  Alternatively we use liquid release which is clear and sprayed on.  This is less toxic and less mess but does not add colour variation to the colour spectrum. 

 

Concrete Staining 

Concrete is coloured by applying a water or chemical to the surface. First we clean and prepare then install the depth and drama.  We apply in various ways  - roller, brush even rag or spray. Finishing with a sealant to enhance the variation.  We use 2 genres of stain:

 

Acid-based stain COLOUR CHART

Colour palette is limited but acid-stain will typically last longer than water-based. It is the best option for high-traffic areas.  It won't fade or chip, comes in earth tones and is translucent when highlighting imperfections within concrete.  After application we clean the surface to remove residual acid.  This type of stain produces variegated and translucent effects adding character for a more natural looking surface. 

 

Water-based stain COLOUR CHART

You can get almost any colour with a water-based stain.  Unlike acid-stain it does not interact with the concrete so our colour is more consistant.  Water-based stains are generally easier to apply and cleanup is minimal. They're not as toxic and safer to work with. However water-based stain does adhere to the surface quickly so fixing mistakes is definitely more challenging. We use water-based stain if you have the following issues:

 

- Stains (i.e., oil or grease) that we could not remove

- Concrete has already been cleaned with acid

- Concrete was sealed at one point during installation. We do remove sealer before stain.

 

Concrete Dyes COLOUR CHART

Dyes can be used to colour large areas, to achieve numerous effects, and in highly detailed applications such as stenciling.  They produce the boldest colours.  Dye colours are more predictable than stains and can be polished.