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Concrete changes as it is manipulated, which is why when you choose a color from a color chart it does not always end up looking like the chosen color. The color saturation level, the intensity, the shading, the sheen and the texture all contribute to the outcome. Texture is one of the many elements that affects the way color is perceived on decorative concrete. The more textured the surface the more the color will change depending on the viewing angle. You do not see a consistent color on a rougher slab as you would on a steel-troweled floor. Reflectivity will also help to determine the final color of a floor. If a surface is smoother, it is more reflective and will appear lighter. The more porous a concrete substrate, the less vibrant the color.
In general, there are three ways to think about adding color to concrete. The first is to add a color pigment to the original mix; also called integral color. This can be very effective, but finish and color consistency can vary. The second is an acid based stain that uses a chemical reaction, or a water-based stain than can mimic acid like effects. A protective sealer finishes the project. The third approach is to use a sealer or coating that is a solid color. It is opaque and topical, and goes down thin.
Different methods of coloring concrete are affected by finishes differently. Acid stains usually look darker on broom finishes than on smoother, steel-troweled surfaces. That’s because a heavy texture has more surface area and less reflectivity. Textured slabs won’t have as much acid stain marbling as smoother surfaces. Stains will saturate rough broomed surfaces in a more even manner. Smooth concrete, however, consists of areas with varying degrees of porosity, producing the classic marbled look. You’re at the surface’s mercy when it comes to color control. Applicators using water-based stains have more control over color regardless of the texture. If you want the surface darker, put down more product. If you want it lighter, use less.
Our concrete stains are available transparent, mimicking the effects of acid-based stains or available in solids colors. Our water based stains can be applied at full strength or diluted with water for a lighter color. Colors can also be mixed and applied in random patterns. Available in 6 standard colors. A decorative sealer can be applied for color enhancement to darken and add depth to the applied stain.
Our durable coatings are available in wide range of standard and custom colors. Custom colors can be matched within a Delta E of 1, which means virtually undetected by the human eye. Our interior epoxies and urethanes are available in 12 standard colors and can be used with paint chips or metallic powders to create durable yet decorative finishes.
Metallic powders are special effect pigments composed of mica nano-particles coated with various organic and inorganic pigments to create pearlescent and iridescent effects that mimic the natural look of stone and rock formations. These unique pigments are designed to be field blended with a 100% solids clear epoxy coating. When the metallic particles are mixed with an epoxy they give the coating a shine that reflects light and creates and eye-catching dramatic color.
Paint chips are specially formulated paint aggregates used to enhance the aesthetic qualities of seamless, resin-based chip/flake flooring systems. This unique product is random in shape, sized within a standardized range and custom blended to match any décor. Paint chips are continuing to gain popularity amongst architects, designers, contractors and consumers, because of their unique properties that deliver complete customization to commercial, residential and industrial floors with an endless range color-styles, texture, size and blending options.