Colored concrete provides lasting aesthetic appeal for commercial developments across Dallas-Fort Worth. Property owners and developers use integral color and topical staining systems to create architectural concrete that enhances building design while maintaining the durability concrete delivers.
Integral color systems mix pigments throughout the concrete mass, providing color that won't wear away with traffic or weathering. This approach works well for commercial walkways, plazas, and architectural elements requiring permanent color that maintains appearance for decades.
Acid stains and reactive colorants create variegated appearances with depth and character. These systems work by chemical reaction with concrete minerals, producing unique, natural-looking results. For contemporary commercial aesthetics, these finishes provide distinctive character unavailable from other materials.
Color consistency across large commercial installations requires careful batching controls, proper curing, and experienced crews. We maintain detailed mix records, use consistent water-cement ratios, and employ curing methods that preserve uniform color development throughout your project.
Property owners and developers work with our teams to select appropriate color systems, review samples, and coordinate installations that deliver the aesthetic vision while meeting performance requirements for commercial use.
Why property owners choose us
- Integral color admixtures providing consistent, permanent color throughout the entire concrete depth
- Dry-shake color hardeners for enhanced surface durability and richer color tones
- UV-stable pigments maintaining color integrity in high-sun exposure conditions
Project capabilities
We offer complete colored concrete solutions including color consultation, sample preparation, and precision batching for consistent results across large projects. Our team handles both integral coloring through batch plant coordination and surface-applied color hardeners with power trowel integration. All colored concrete receives appropriate sealer systems to enhance and protect the investment.
What's included
- Color system selection and consultation
- Sample panel creation (when requested)
- Base preparation
- Integral color mixing (when specified)
- Concrete placement with color consistency protocols
- Surface preparation for topical stains
- Acid stain or reactive colorant application
- Neutralization and cleaning
- Protective sealer application
- Maintenance guidelines
Common project scenarios
- Office complex creating colored concrete walkways matching building aesthetics
- Retail developer installing colored plaza areas for visual interest
- Mixed-use project using color to define different functional zones
- Hospitality property adding colored concrete for architectural character
Frequently Asked Questions
- How permanent is colored concrete?
- Integral color is permanent throughout the concrete mass and won't wear away. Acid stains penetrate and react with concrete, providing lasting color. Both systems maintain appearance for the life of the concrete when properly maintained.
- Can color be matched to architectural specifications?
- Yes, we work with color manufacturers to match architectural color specifications. Sample panels verify color before full installation. Variables like cement color and aggregate affect final appearance - samples ensure expectations align with results.
- Does colored concrete cost significantly more than gray?
- Integral color adds $0.50-$2.00 per square foot depending on color depth and intensity. Acid stain systems typically add $2-$5 per square foot for materials and application. The modest premium delivers significant aesthetic value.
- What maintenance does colored concrete require?
- Colored concrete requires periodic cleaning and sealing similar to standard concrete. Sealers protect color from UV fading and wear. Resealing every 2-4 years maintains appearance and protection.