When contractors in the Dallas area ask us about coloring products for poured concrete, we typically recommend integral colors or color hardeners. Here, you’ll learn the difference between the two and see what color options are available with each type.

What is integral color?

Integral color comes in powdered or liquid form, and it is mixed in with concrete before pouring. Using the integral coloring method, color is distributed throughout an entire batch of concrete during the mixing process. Contractors like this method because of its simplicity: they can add the color before pouring the concrete, and they don’t have to distribute the color on top after they finish pouring the concrete.

Because the entire concrete slab is the same color, if any chipping or cracking occurs, the color does not chip off.

With integral color, you can typically get beautiful shades of earth tones. When pouring a concrete slab using integral color, make sure you and the client have confirmed the depth of color they want by showing them samples. Depending on the shade of color the client wants, you may need to add more integral color. Using more product increases your costs, so it’s important to confirm before quoting a price.

What are color hardeners?

If your client is looking for more intense colors or wants vibrant colors that just aren’t available with integral colors, you may want to consider showing them color hardeners. Color hardeners are broadcast on top of a poured concrete slab and worked into the surface. Because the color is concentrated at the top of the concrete slab (instead of mixed right into the concrete), you can get more vibrant, bold colors.

In addition to coloring the surface of the concrete, color hardeners create a strong layer, making the surface of the concrete more durable—a huge benefit to using hardeners.

Which colors are available with integral colors?

With integral colors, you can get a wide range of neutral colors in earth tones. Keep in mind that you can increase the intensity of the color by adding more product to your concrete mix. Make sure that you have confirmed the depth of color your client wants before pouring the concrete slab.

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Which colors are available with color hardeners?

With color hardeners, you can get more vibrant hues than with integral colors. The colors shown here can also be used with overlays, antiquing agents, and releases.

Click on the above images to open large, printable versions (PDF) of our color charts.

An important note about color charts

Charts are useful in guiding your decision-making, but keep in mind that the colors shown are approximations. Actual colors will vary depending on several factors such as the mix design. Don’t rely on color charts alone. Instead, also prepare color samples before making a final choice with your client.

Finding integral color and color hardeners near me

If you’re in the Dallas, Texas region, Superior Decorative Concrete is your one-stop-stop for all your coloring needs. We are staffed with industry pros who have years of experience doing decorative concrete work. Our sales associates are ready to discuss your projects and recommend the best products for the job.

[email protected]

We have two locations:

10865 Denton Drive
Dallas, Texas 75220
(214) 227-9898
(888) 600-1460 (Toll Free)

2001 Central Circle, STE 101
McKinney, Texas 75069
(214) 299-7909
(855) 453-0005 (Toll Free)