Color and coat concrete, aka overlays, these are two easy ways to restore and enhance the beauty of the concrete elements of your home or business. Modern technology has made it possible to give concrete a stunning array of colors and finishes, to help concrete be part of the design or a signature elements. The primary ways to add colors to concrete are
- concrete dyes
- Concrete stains
- terrazzo epoxy coatings
- metallic epoxy coatings
Concrete Dyes
There are different types of dyes that can be used to enhance the beauty of concrete. Some are mixed with wet concrete others are sprinkled by hand on top of freshly placed concrete. The second type of cement dyes are then worked in to the cement to form a hard-colored concrete “skin” on the cement’s surface. Colored concrete can also be stamped, textured or imprinted to enhance its beauty. The image to the right shows a sample of the wide variety of cement dye colors available.
We can also add color to decorate existing textured concrete features. Such as decorative cement treatment can improve or freshen any existing concrete surface.
Concrete Staining
Acid Reactive Stains are a blend of naturally occurring mineral salts and acids that react with the existing chemicals in concrete to achieve a mottled, more “natural stone” look which can even resemble marble or brighter colours such as the samples shown here. These stains, which create a luxurious look at a much lower cost will not chip or fade with time. Each installation is as unique as a fingerprint. Acid reactive stains can be used for
- exterior hardscapes
- artificial rock formations
- interior floors
- walls
- statues
Metallic Epoxy Coatings
While metallic coatings may look exotic, they are just another form of overlay or coating. Using different tools and application techniquest you can create just about any decorative look you want. They can provide a very contemporary look for both residential or commercial surfaces with the color options available. Consider using a metallic concrete coating as a statement or focal point in your next project
Concrete Repair Specialists is located just north of Pittsburgh and we serve the Southwestern Pennsylvania area. To learn more about how you can use decorative concrete in your business or home, contact us today.