Integrally Coloured Concrete
Coloured Precast Panels
> Off-form finishes
> Sandblasting, honing, acid etching or exposed aggregate finishes
> Effects of aggregates on final colour appearance
CCS pigments are ideal for colouring precast panels as well as on-site panel construction. Building facades and freeway sound barrier walls are commonly constructed with coloured concrete.
Recommendation: We recommend using only manufacturers who are experienced in producing coloured precast concrete.
Successfully colouring precast panels requires fastidious and consistent manufacturing techniques. Form preparation, release agents, sand and aggregate selection, vibration techniques and the use of sealers can all have a dramatic influence on the final colour.
Manufacturers experienced in coloured precast work may charge higher prices, however quality of workmanship over cost should be considered. Sample panels should be produced prior to commencement of the project.
Phone 1800 077 744, 07 3287 6444 or an office near you to arrange quotes from independent precast manufacturers.
Off-form finishes
Producing a smooth off-form finish is very difficult to achieve as any variance in form preparation, release agents, application, raw materials, curing practice and vibration technique can cause colour variance or blemishing on the surface.
Therefore, consideration should be given to the level of colour consistency that can realistically be achieved (within the set budget), prior to job commencement.
Recommendation: Although many quality off-form finishes are regularly achieved, specifiers should view previous projects to understand what is an acceptable standard with such a demanding surface finish.
Phone 1800 077 744, 07 3287 6444 or an office near you to arrange quotes from independent contractors.
Sandblasting, honing, acid etching or exposed aggregate finishes
It is much easier to create a consistent coloured finish when using these methods for precast concrete. As the surface layer is removed, the colour of the sand and aggregates will have as much bearing on the final colour as the pigment used. Therefore, precast manufacturers may be better able to produce panels to a budget using a combination of colour and aggregate.
Effects of aggregates on final colour appearance
Where aggregates are exposed, the actual pigment colour is much less noticeable than when a smooth off-form finish is created.
Recommendation: If an exposed aggregate finish is desired, we recommend early consultation with experienced precast manufacturers to assist in realistic colour selection.