Colored concrete is becoming increasingly popular as it adds a decorative flair to your home and garden. It is easy to work with and can be used to create beautiful, functional designs that will stand the test of time. While it can be more expensive than standard concrete, the resulting works of art will add value to your property and can be customised for specific projects.
When compared to other decorative materials, coloured concrete is more durable and has the ability to withstand a range of weather conditions. It can be shaped, stamped or textured to create unique and stunning finishes for outdoor flooring, walls, countertops, pool decks, driveways and more. The use of colored concrete allows homeowners, contractors and designers to experiment with different hues and tones to create a truly custom look for any project.
The most popular method for coloring concrete is integral color, which uses mineral oxides or pigments that are mixed directly into the wet mix. These colors bind with Portland cement to become a permanent part of the concrete, which is why they are so durable and resistant to fading, flaking, chipping, and scratching.
Another way to colour concrete is with a concrete stain, which is similar to paint but designed specifically for concrete. This product is available in a variety of colours and can be dispensed through an automated dispensing system for quicker application. Concrete stains can also be applied after the concrete is poured, which gives the contractor more control over the final appearance.