Whether you’re building a new pergola or a colored concrete patio, home improvement projects in Broken Arrow or Tulsa, OK are exciting. But before you can get started, you’ll need to make some decisions about the materials you’d like to use. In particular, you’ll need to figure out whether you’d like to use integrated or topical color, as this will determine the look and feel of your concrete as well as the amount of maintenance work you’ll need to do.
Integrated color is almost always superior because this type of color is permanent, low-maintenance, and looks better because of the even texture. What’s more, a contractor who offers this product is almost always conscious about quality, whereas someone who offers topical finishes only might be less concerned with the outcome of their work. Let’s have a look at some of the reasons why you should use integrated color during your next project.
7 Reasons to Use Integrated Color for Your Colored Concrete Patio in Broken Arrow or Tulsa, OK
1. It’s Permanent
The primary reason why integrated color works so much better than concrete finish is that it doesn’t fade over time. The desired color is directly mixed in with the concrete, which means that the whole block, inside and out, will be of the same color. As a result, there is no chance of it peeling, fading, or otherwise deteriorating over time, and you’ll be able to enjoy the same vivid and bright color for as long as you keep the concrete.
Whether you’re building with concrete inside the house or outside, the surface of your structure might get damaged over time. For example, it might get scratched, someone might knock a heavy object against it, or harsh weather conditions could take off the top layer. If you opt for integrated color, such small marks will be almost invisible because the inside of the concrete is the exact same color as the outside.
2. It’s a Mark of High Quality
When choosing which contractors to hire for your concrete project, you should always check whether they offer integrated color because it is a mark of high quality. A firm that only uses concrete finish is most likely hoping to do the job as quickly as possible without necessarily keeping quality and durability in mind. On the other hand, someone who uses integrated color is probably passionate about making your home renovation beautiful and long-lasting.
To find the best contractors, you can check out the reviews online, as past customers will have the experience you’re currently lacking. Read about the company you’re considering, and check that they have been in operation for several years. We at Summit Concrete & Construction have been working in the local area for over 20 years, so we know the regulations, weather conditions, and requirements inside out.
3. It’s Low-Maintenance
When adding to your home or building a new structure, one of the most important considerations is how often you’ll have to have maintenance work done on it. You don’t want to spend a lot of money on your renovation, only to have to get it fixed or re-done a few years later. A great advantage of using integrated color is that it is much more durable than other methods, so you most likely won’t have to worry about your structure for a decade or more.
As mentioned, the whole block of concrete will be of the same color, which means that small nicks or scratches won’t make a noticeable difference to how your building looks. What’s more, the color is integrated into the concrete and therefore chemically stable, so it won’t become lighter or look different when exposed to light, UV rays, and different types of weather. When well cared for, your color will last indefinitely.
4. The Color Is Evenly Toned
Color that is integrated throughout the concrete will always be evenly toned. There is no risk that certain patches will look darker or different than others, and you’re almost guaranteed a beautiful, smooth appearance. This is crucial, particularly if you are upgrading your driveway or the facade of your home, both of which are very visible from the road.
Unfortunately, a smooth finish isn’t guaranteed when you apply topical paint because the process is much more technique-sensitive. Once the concrete has dried, you may start to notice that certain areas look very different from others. Depending on the effect you’re hoping to achieve and the prominence of the structure you have built, this can be a big problem and ruin the look you were planning to create.
5. The Colors Are Earthy
Topical paint comes in all types of colors, and it can often look out of place in a home, driveway, or patio. On the other hand, concrete that already comes in the correct color is likely to look earthy. Different shades and variations are possible, but the look will always be natural and matte. In the vast majority of homes, this will fit in far better than a vibrant and overpowering color.
6. It Can Be Used Anywhere
In the past, some of our customers have expressed their concern about whether the pigment added to the concrete will weaken it and make its structure less durable. Fortunately, this isn’t the case, and no matter what shade or color you choose, your concrete will retain its strength. For this reason, and because the color doesn’t chafe or come off even with significant wear and tear, integrated color can be used on almost every surface.
Whether you’re looking for a colored concrete patio, a new driveway, a pergola, or a change in your home’s facade, this option is suitable for any project in the Broken Arrow or Tulsa, OK area. Here at Summit Concrete & Construction, we will speak to you about which shade you’re looking for and present you with a few possibilities. You can then choose exactly what you’d like and design your space to your specifications.
7. It Can Be Restored
Above, we have discussed that the color integrated into concrete doesn’t fade. However, you will be using your space frequently and, in some cases, walking or even driving on the surface. Over the years, this will undoubtedly change the look and feel of your concrete. Because of traffic, pollution, and dirt, your surface may start to look different and even appear to fade, although this is not due to an actual problem with the material.
Fortunately, such issues can be addressed by simply having your structure professionally cleaned and re-sealed. With this simple maintenance work, the concrete can regain its coloring and look as good as new. Ask your contractors how often this type of service might be necessary and how you can gain access to a qualified professional who will be happy to help.
Erecting a new colored concrete patio or similar structure in Broken Arrow or Tulsa, OK is a challenging, yet rewarding task. The best contractors will always use concrete with integrated color, so you can enjoy your new structure without worrying about it fading or losing the desired look over time. Get in touch with us at Summit Concrete & Construction to find out more about the types of projects we can do and to book an initial appointment with our professionals.
