Stamped Concrete Toronto: How Does It Get Colored Anyway?

 

If you live in Toronto, you've probably noticed the ads for Toronto stamped concrete. If you researched a bit, you know that it's the best flooring solution possible because it's low-cost, maintenance-free and comes in an unlimited array of colors and shapes. But we all know the dull color of concrete, so how does it get to be nicely colored?

 

There are basically four methods to color concrete. Usually contractors make a base color through an integral color or dry-shake hardener. Powdered or liquid agents can afterwards be added to get a more natural color such as the look of stones or wood. This agent also helps to get that "washed-out" look and to create shades.

 

The four types of substances used to bring the concrete to life with cool colors are:

 

- Integral color

 

It's the first one mixed into the concrete and offers permanent and even color. Its colors are not very bright but rather faded and subtle.

 

- Dry-shake color hardeners

 

Along with integral coloring admixtures, they infuse the grey dull concrete with rich colors that don't fade easily, not even in the ever-changing weather conditions in Toronto. They produce vibrant colors and are the ones that come with the unlimited array of shades. As a bonus, hardeners also improve durability. They only color the top and if they are not properly applied, the concrete at the bottom can show at the surface. The hardeners need to be broadcast by hand.

 

- Liquid and powdered agents

 

They enhance the first two methods and give the vintage effect. Because of that, they are always applied after them. Powders are more difficult to work with, but they are more effective than the liquid agents.

 

- Chemical stains

 

They are applied randomly to stamped concrete that resembles stones, cobblestone or bricks as it makes them look more natural. 

 

A multicolor flagstone for example needs 3-4 accent colors to produce the authentic color. The faux lines are made with a grey or a tan shade. After the color scheme and design is ready, the stamped concrete is sealed with a solvent-based acrylic.

 

Coloring concrete to get the ideal scheme is a tough job as you have to do everything perfect right from the start. Concrete hardens quickly and doesn't allow mistakes. But the true pieces of art that come out of the contractor's hands are worth each effort. If you haven't yet seen many colorful stamped concrete designs, browse online and discover this world. You might want to refresh your home too.