Concrete Pigment

Concrete pigment is a dry powder that is used to add color to various cement-based materials, such as concrete, stucco, mortar, grout, plaster, countertop mix, and concrete overlay. It can also be used in the ceramic industry and by DIY enthusiasts to create a wide range of projects, from sculptures to planters. Pigment is an effective way to add color to cement-based materials, as it can provide a range of hues and tones depending on the specific combination of pigment and cement used. 

Click/Tap each question to hide/show the answers.

What is the difference between concrete and cement? Although the terms cement and concrete often are used interchangeably, they are NOT the same thing. Cement is actually an ingredient of concrete. Concrete is a mixture of cement, sand and aggregates such as gravel or crushed stone.

Printable Concrete Pigment How-To Guide

Step 1: Preparation

• If mixing in a bucket or a mixing drum, thoroughly clean the container to prevent contaminants before mixing your pigment and concrete.
• Double-check required pigment amounts per batch by using Direct Colors’ Pigment Calculators.

Caution: May be harmful if swallowed or ingested. Contact with skin can cause mild irritation. Avoid contact with eyes.

Step 2: Application

Option 1: Ready-Mix Truck

• The cement plant should load mixer with half of the total water into the empty drum.
• Add the pigment to the water and wait for a minimum of five minutes.
  • Waiting helps break down the powder
• Add aggregate, cement, sand, and remaining water while the truck is spinning.
  • Allow mixing at full speed for a minimum of 10 minutes.
• If adding pigment to the truck at the job site, allow a minimum of 30 minutes to mix at full speed.

Option 2: Mixing Drums

• Add the pigment and your concrete mix to the drum first.
  • Mix for two minutes or until thoroughly mixed.
• While spinning, slowly add water to the drum.
  • Mix for four minutes or until even color dispersion.
• If you are making multiple batches, weigh out your water for each batch to keep your colors consistent.

Option 3: Mixing Buckets

• Add a quarter of your total water and all the pigment to your bucket.
  • Mix using a drill and birdcage mixer.
• Slowly add your concrete mix to the water while continuously running the drill.
  • Gradually add more water and concrete mix to maintain workability.
• Once water is thoroughly blended, continue to mix for 3-5 minutes longer to prevent pigment streaking.

Pro Tips:

• Do not exceed 10% pigment to the weight of Portland cement in your mix.
• One pigment can produce many shades of color depending on the different amounts added to a specific concrete batch. Lower amounts of pigment produce lighter colors, while heavier loads produce deeper, richer color.
• Use a high-shear mixing tool such as a double box or birdcage mixer for buckets.
• When mixing in buckets, be sure the mixer can reach the bottom edges, where pigment can settle and lead to streaks in your finish.
• When mixing multiple batches, maintain a precise mix formula. Changes in the amount of concrete mix, pigment, or water will affect color results.

Cleanup:

• Clean tools and supplies with ProClean Degreaser™ and warm water before concrete has cured.
• Clean tools and supplies with a concrete dissolver after concrete has cured.

Tools & Supplies:

• Drill
• Cement mixer
• ProClean Degreaser™

Disclaimer: Direct Colors does not warranty or guarantee results (outcomes). Concrete variations or improper application may cause unintended results. Test product on an inconspicuous or small area and allow to fully cure to ensure compatibility and desired result.