Colour Thru Hints

Used for Colouring Concrete. Exposed Aggregate/Polished Concrete.

 

The pigmented bags are shredable. Once added to the concrete agitator and mixed on fast speed for 15 minutes, mixing can then be slowed and batch checked for uniformity of colour. Quantity per cubic metre may vary depending on colour required.

 

Points to remember when using Thru Colour

• Cement water ratio have to be exactly the same for all batches, no free water can be added at any stage as this will cause uneven colour.
• Applying water to aid with trowelling will also cause uneven colour.
• If you trowel in the early stages this will cause bleed water which also creates colour variations.
• An average ratio of 280 up to 350kg of cement per m3 of concrete was used to match colour charts. Colour may vary if a lower or higher MPA concrete is used. Most tests have been completed using normal 25MPA concrete.
• Slump should not exceed 120mm. And must be consistent between loads.

Helpful tips for Colour Thru

• Keep the slump as low as possible but not exceed 120mm. Limit bleed water.
• Be aware of inconsistent curing e.g. Parts in shade and other areas in sun.
• Be aware of harsh climates. The ground is so dry in many areas, we have to change our work methods. If you have some areas that bleed more than others you will have colour variation. Consider pouring on plastic to have an even evaporation rate. You could also consider using evaporative retarder such as Concure AV after screeding & Bullfloating.
• Do not overwork the concrete in early stages of the slab and wait for bleed water to evaporate from surfaces before finishing. Ensure the finish is consistent e.g. If you trowel and area in shade then go back later and trowel again you could create uneven colour.
• An even broom finish seems to leave better colour consistency as well as creating a key for sealer to adhere.
• If possible, leave for 14-28 days before sealing.
• Prior to sealing give surface a light acid wash 25-1 water to acid. A simple way to apply this is with a watering can with a large head doing 15-20m² at a time then pressure clean with min2000 psi cleaner before acid dries on surface. If the acid is allowed to dry on the surface it will cause colour variation as well as leave a laitance on the surface that could create sealer delamination.
• Once clean and dry apply recommended sealer making sure the first coat is diluted by 30% with solvent. Once dry and 24 hours has elapsed apply a second coat, a third coat may be needed depending on finish.
• Final colour is not accurately represented in comparison to the colour chart until the concrete has been acid washed & sealed in accordance with guidelines & allowed to cure for 28 days.