Tuesday 8 November 2011

How to Fix Concrete Colour Problems

Concrete colouring is very popular around the Washington, DC area, but sometimes unsightly problems can occur. If you’re not happy with the results of your previous concrete colouring job, there may still be hope to make your concrete surfaces look good, without going throughthe trouble of completely replacing them.

It may be easier than you think to repair your colour. If the discoloured area is small, you can consider acid staining. Stains are basically a chemical reaction on concrete surfaces, resulting in a unique and beautiful marbled look. This is also good for revitalizing colour which appears to be faded.

Chemical dyes may be considered as an alternative to staining. Water-based dyes can result in a similar marbled look to acid stains, while solvent - based dyes can produce a more uniform look. This option is best used on indoor surfaces, as dyes are typically not UV resistant.

Coloured sealers can also be used for unattractive colouring. This method is often the cheapest way of fixing uneven colour. Sealers can come in already mixed colours, or a custom colour can be created at the time of application.

These options can be quite effective in certain circumstances, but it’s best to speak to a decorative concrete contractor who is experienced in concrete resurfacing and restoration, as they can give you the best advice to ensure your concrete surfaces look good long after the work is done.