Colored Concrete Chicago for Indoor and Outdoor Use
Everyone pictures concrete to be this gray material often used on floors. While gray can be stunning, there are other color options available. In the past, concrete is merely a base material, often topped off with a more decorative material, like tile, carpet, or vinyl, to name a few. It was more expensive and it called for more tedious cleaning and maintenance than one would want to take on. Paint was also an option but it is a topical solution. Ultimately, the paint would wear off, peeling and flaking until the bare concrete is once again exposed.
Colored concrete is an exceptional method of recreating the look of plain gray concrete surfaces. There are various ways of coloring concrete slabs and most options provide long-lasting effects. Property owners would be glad to know that they can keep their existing slabs and acquire a better look with a color more suitable for everything around it.
Noteworthy Benefits of Decorative Concrete Coloring
It may not be as bold and ornate as decorative concrete coatings, overlays, or other flooring or paving material, but it provides impressive aesthetics while maintaining the stunning look and texture of concrete. Here are other features that make this an ideal decorative concrete floor option:
Broad Range of Colors – There is a variety of decorative concrete colors to choose from, from earthy tones to more vibrant pastels. Depending on the type of coloring agent used, the colors can be mixed to create unique hues. Multiple colors can also be used and applied in patterns or to create a custom design.
Realistic Stone Look – In decorative concrete stamping and refinishing, creative artisans can use color to make a slab look like a masonry masterpiece of slate, flagstone, or any other natural stone.
Restores Stained and Discolored Slabs – Concrete is very porous, thus, making it easy for various liquids to leave a stain. If the stain won’t scrub off, masking it off with color would be an effective option.
Economical – Adding a layer of color is a lot more affordable than adding another layer of high-end material. It also requires less time to install and minimal maintenance.
Methods of Coloring Concrete Pool Decks, Patios & Driveways
Stained Concrete – Decorative concrete staining is one of the most popular methods of coloring concrete slabs. Acid stain concrete creates semi-translucent colors that produce random effects and tones, thanks to the chemical reaction between the stain’s metallic salts and the lime and minerals in the slab. Decorative concrete water-based stains create more consistent colors that dry to an opaque finish. Stained solutions can be added on existing stamped concrete patio, driveway or pool deck.
Integral Color – This coloring agent is integrated into the concrete mix before it is poured. Because it is mixed, the color is definitely long-lasting. However, because the color is dispersed throughout the slab, the colors are less intense.
Dry-Shake – This powdered coloring agent is scattered onto the newly poured or newly resurfaced slab. The powder soaks into the wet slab, dissolves and penetrates, and creates a colored slab before it hardens.
Solvent and Water-Based Dyes – Both create translucent colors that are appealing and long-lasting. These, however, will not cover up stains or discoloration as much as other coloring agents would.
Explore the possibilities. Call us @ (773)377-8976 for more colored concrete options.
Chicago Concrete Resurfacing is a leading contractor that specializes in resurfacing, refinishing, and repairing patios, pool decks, driveways, interior floors, commercial flooring, and more. Our team of highly trained Chicago Illinois colored concrete contractors has a minimum of 10 years experience in the industry. Call us or email us today for a free consultation and quote.
