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ConcreteNetwork.com February 2010
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Learn the ABCs of Decorative Stamping

If you're new to concrete stamping and want to learn the basics, two seminars to be offered at the Concrete Decor Show in Phoenix can help get you started. On March 17,  a 4-hour hands-on workshop, Introduction to Concrete Stamping (WE31W), will cover the fundamentals of forming and placing concrete, and the variety of pattern tools and seamless textures available and how to combine them. On March 18,  the 2-hour seminar Getting Started in Stamping (TH33S) will present advice on how to start a successful stamping business.


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Tips for Correcting Color in Stamped Concrete



Greetings!

From gray to redIs it possible to change the color of a stamped or stained concrete slab once it's placed? This is a call for help we get often at the Concrete Network, from contractors whose clients simply aren't happy with the final color, don't like its intensity, or find the color to be inconsistent. When the color goes wrong on one of your projects, there are several techniques you can use to save the slab from having to be ripped out and replaced. Here are some handy tips from ConcreteNetwork.com troubleshooting expert Chris Sullivan on how to make color adjustments in existing decorative concrete.

Jim Peterson,
The Concrete Network
Color swatches
For minor color adjustments
Apply an acid-based stain (either diluted or full-strength, depending on the level of color change) or a tinted sealer. Tinted sealers are available in water and solvent bases, as well as different levels of gloss and opacity. You can buy a premixed colored sealer, or add tint concentrates to clear sealers on site (see What Are Tinted Sealers?).
Inconsistent color
For complete color change
To completely change the color of a concrete slab, use water-based stains. Either topical acrylic stains or water-based penetrating stains are especially effective if you want to shift lighter colored concrete to a darker color.
Blemish in stained concrete
A quick fix for blemishes
A simple method for disguising blemishes or off-color areas on stained concrete is to use an acrylic universal tint concentrate or paint. You can apply the tint directly to the substrate, or blend various colors of tint into the sealer used on the project until you obtain a close color match. Learn how.
Removing excess release agent
If a stamped concrete slab is too dark because you applied too much colored antiquing release, you may be able to remove some of the release agent by applying a chemical stripper followed by vigorous scrubbing. A dilute acid may also work. Learn more.
Resurfaced sidewalk
When all else fails...
As a last resort for fixing color snafus, consider resurfacing the concrete with a decorative concrete overlay or micro-topping. These systems are available in virtually any color, and some can be stamped.

Watch this Color Correction Video

Color correction video

Chris Sullivan shows the steps to preparing a concrete surface for a topically applied color concentrate, which can change the look and add contrast to otherwise bland stamped concrete.
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