Integral Colored Concrete in Birmingham
Integral colored concrete can add a dramatic effect to any piece of decorative concrete. Varying pigments are added to the concrete mix in the form of a powder, liquid, or granular particles in order to create new batches of concrete colors. It is often visualized as something similar to adding food coloring to a cake mix. As the mixture is blended, the new color is spread throughout the entire batch. The blending process is a very important step, because consistent, smooth blending is necessary in order to avoid blotches or uneven coloring. This blending process can occur either at the particular job site, or in a ready-mix plant and then transported to individual job sites.
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One of the main advantages of integral colored concrete is the even, consistent coloring throughout the entire piece of concrete. Even if the concrete becomes scratched or chipped, the color remains the same all the way through the concrete slab. Additionally, integral colored concrete will not fade over an extended amount of time, and it holds-up very well when exposed to varying weather elements or intense sunlight.
Color choices fall mainly in muted earth-tone palettes for integral colored concrete. These soft colors blend nicely with the majority of landscape designs, as well as interior decorating schemes.
Integral colored concrete is quite simple to maintain, especially with a little bit of tender loving care. Sealing the finished project will provide protection for the concrete from scratches and stains from oils or grease, as well as giving the surface a shine that makes the color more vibrant.
One thing to consider with integral colored concrete is that the color choices are a bit limited when compared to concrete staining procedures. This should not be a concern, though, if you plan to stay within the earth-tone color scheme. Another thing to consider is that sometimes the price is increased with integral colored concrete, due to the fact that the entire batch of concrete is colored, versus the top layer.
Integral colored concrete can be used in a variety of places, including both indoor and outdoor projects. It is extremely versatile when creating projects that have contrasting colors, as you might have around the edges of a patio, driveway, or pool deck, contrasting colors for stairs, or for creating special designs in floors or other concrete slabs.
Contact Alabama Decorative Concrete, LLC to learn more about the different techniques we provide and which one will be best for your next project!