What If the Colour of Exposed Concrete Does Not Turn Out or Match My Existing Slab?

Exposed concrete is ideal for outdoor use, and it makes a perfect choice for driveways and areas requiring additional grip. Are you planning to install exposed concrete on your driveway or porch? When adding exposed concrete to an existing concrete slab, a common question is what if the exposed concrete does not match the colour of my existing slab? Here are some ways you can deal with this concern.

What You Should Know About the Colour of Exposed Concrete Slabs

The colour of exposed concrete not matching the colour of an existing concrete slab is something every contractor has seen. If the contractor installed a section of the concrete slab years ago, some of the coloursmight have faded. Also,some areas of the existing concrete slab might be worn through the sealer. Because of general wear and tear, there will likely be some colour variations.

The materials used for manufacturing exposed concrete are also subject to natural variations of colour, texture, size, and even shape. Some of these variations are common from one batch to another. Customers might order and install exposed concrete to a section of the concrete slab. Weeks later, the customer comes back to order more exposed concrete to complete the remaining areas. Between the two batches, the colour of the exposed concrete might be slightly different.

What to Do When Colour of Exposed Concrete Does Not Match Existing Slab

If the colour of your new concrete does not match the existing slab, here are a few options you have to fix the issue.

Applying an Overlay

An overlay on the existing concrete slab can help make the different colours match more closely. An exposed concrete overlay refers to the thin cement-based product that goes over the existing concrete slab. The concrete overlay is applied for decorative purpose or when repairing a section of the concrete slab. A concrete overlay can be used as a thin finish or up to ¾ inches. The depth depends on the desired finish and the extent of damage on the concrete surface.

Restain and Seal

Restaining a concrete slab is a great way to add colour to the otherwise dull surface. The process may take up to two days, and you should hire an expert. Ensure the concrete slab is cleaned before applying the concrete stain. After applying the concrete stain, ensure you clean up and neutralize the stain. Finally, seal the concrete to provide long-term protection. Make sure to choose the concrete stain carefully to match it to the exposed concrete as closely as possible. However, note that staining the concrete slab might not result in a 100% colour match.

Consider It Decoration

One of the most challenging tasks is replicating an existing concrete look or application. You might not have the budget for a concrete overlay or for restaining the surface. In this case, you may choose to let the difference go and take it as a unique look to your concrete surface. The concrete contractor will repair any worn parts of the existing slab and match new concrete as closely as possible.

Conclusion

The colour of exposed concrete not matching the colour of an existing concrete slab should not be a major cause of concern. A concrete overlay can be the perfect solution. Alternatively, you can choose to restain the concrete slab or leave the colour variant as a part of the decorative aspect. At ReoCrete, we provide the best exposed concrete available in a wide range of colours. Contact us today for onsite delivery at the best prices.