At first look, it can seem that what is the
connection between dyes and something like concrete. But dyes have a
special affinity towards concrete, and when used they can result in
spectacular effects that is not possible with any other coloring medium.
There are a class of dyes that are used in concrete and are collectively
known as Concrete Dyes.
They are essentially the water and solvent-based dyes that come in a
wide array of colors, and comes with unique qualities. Water based dyes
can produce softer hues while bolder hues are possible with solvent
based ones.
Though often underrated, Concrete Dyes as they are called can achieve
vibrant tones that is just not possible with stains.
Concrete dyes are generally translucent and
penetrating color solutions. They are different from acid-based stains,
as no reaction takes place between the dyes and the concrete. Instead,
the concrete dyes contain minute colouring agents which actually
penetrates into the concrete surface. As the image depicts when applied
full strength, dyes can produce gorgeous colours, like this border
stripe.
Usually Concrete dyes gets packaged in concentrated form. This allows
flexibility in the end color. Depending on the nature of application.
Concrete dyes can be used full strength or diluted with water or
solvents.
No
hiding of the defects- Concrete Dyes, are meant for enhancing
rather than camouflaging the surface. They are not supposed to hide
cracks, blemishes, or other defects.
Variations
and inconsistent color- Variations and inconsistent colour with dyes
a feature that you have to cope up with, even if the dyes are applied in
the same surface.
As the Dyes are more or less permanent colours so
before venturing into buying dyes and applying hastily to the surface
can result in some situation that could have been easily avoided if some
thought was first given to. Here are a few smart tips that will help you
in buying.
- What sort of colouring effect that you intend?
Here are a few option that you can weigh
- As dyes that are used in concrete are packaged in concentrated
form (liquid or powder) that gives flexibility in the end color. So
you must choose whether to use it in full strength to give depth to
color or dilute it with water or solvents for paler shades. There is
also another option of blending different dyes to produce custom
hues.
- What is exactly the condition of the concrete?
Here are the few things to be considered for
- Dyes are meant for enhancing the looks rather than disguising the
surface.
- Colour effects will usually show greater intensity on new
concrete than older or weathered concrete.
- Contaminants like dirt, grease, sealers, curing compounds, that
are found on the concrete surface can easily block or inhibit the
penetration of dyes. This can result in washed-out color. So that is
the reason why manufacturers insist on the importance of Surface
preparation.
- Can the product be used for both interior and exterior
applications?
- It should be kept in mind that some dyes are not at all suitable
for exterior use because the colour may fade away on being exposed
to sunlight. That is the reason that you must check on the dyes
before considering a dye for an outdoor project.
- Is it easy for the product to mix and apply?
- Dyes can reach you as liquid concentrate or powder that needs to
be diluted with a suitable solvent or water before application.
- Information on 'coverage rate'
- Average" is an operative word that is used to assess the
coverage rate of a dye. Manufacturers can give you a fixed average
range (in units like square feet per gallon), but there is a catch
here, they will also state that the rate can change dramatically
depending on situations like porosity of the concrete substrate, or
the intensity of colour. Still, this calculation can come handy as
you compare the prices of different products and plan how much is
the right one.