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You’re listening to Direct Colors podcast Episode 32: Remodel and Flip Houses for Less with Decorative Concrete. If this is your first time listening, then thanks for listening. I’m Tommy Carter, Sales Manager and Technician with Direct Colors.
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You’re listening to Direct Colors podcast Episode 33: Bathroom Remodeling is a Snap with Decorative Concrete. If this is your first time listening, then thanks for listening. I’m Tommy Carter, Sales Manager and Technician with Direct Colors.
Tommy: If you’re thinking of starting a home remodeling project but are overwhelmed by the idea of tackling your whole house, why not begin in the bathroom? Bathrooms are an ideal size for a first time project and our General Manager, Shawna Turner, is here to discuss why and tell us how to get started. Welcome Shawna.
ST: Thanks, Tommy.
Tommy: So why is a bathroom remodel such a good introductory project for homeowners?
ST: As you mentioned before, it is often the smallest room in the house so refinishing the floors or bathroom vanity doesn’t seem like such a daunting task. We had a customer a few years ago with a particularly challenging bathroom remodeling project. He had basically gutted the room and was starting from scratch. The floor was heavily stained and in such terrible condition that after some discussion, Mr. Thomas decided to use a concrete overlay to create a brand new floor surface. A wise decision in this case. The floor was less than 50 square feet so he only needed one box for the project and after watching our videos and reading over the how to application guide, he felt ready to proceed. I think the results speak for themselves.
Tommy: How would you say decorative concrete compares to other interior design options?
ST: It’s true that there are a lot of options out there. I know Mr. Thomas appreciated the ways in which he could customize his overall design outcome. For example, he chose our white DCI Concrete Overlay and followed with various dilutions of Coffee Brown Acid Stain. Though we offer white in both our overlay and countertop mix, white concrete can be difficult to find locally. Mr. Thomas selected that option because it provided the color contrast that complemented the other elements of the bathroom well. Here’s the review he later posted on Direct Colors Facebook page:
“I had what I called, “a botched job” at an attempt to stain my floor. I panicked and contemplated vinyl flooring. I called your toll free number and you recommended that I start over with a concrete overlay and apply diluted acid stain in various ratios based on my intended design. I really appreciate your patience. The floor came out far better than I could have ever imagined. My wife and I owe it all to the great advice from Justin and Shawna of Direct Colors Inc.”
I also think that people like to be creative and have something beautiful in their homes that they actually did themselves. Acid staining in particular offers our customers a one of a kind finish and that’s very appealing.
Tommy: What about countertops? Remodeling existing countertops or adding a new poured concrete top in a bathroom also seems like a manageable project for homeowners.
ST: That’s absolutely true. We offer products for both options and concrete countertops offer endless customization options for any bathroom design. In fact, I think refinishing bathroom vanities is one of our most popular projects at the moment. Vanities are typically smaller than kitchen countertops and require less time as well as money to remodel. Our concrete overlay does a wonderful job of putting a brand new finish on a properly prepared surface that allows our customers to start over in the bathroom with any look they wish – affordably. It’s important to point out that remodeling doesn’t have to break the bank and using decorative concrete products is definitely working smart for bathroom floors and countertops.
Tommy: What’s the top selling Direct Colors product for refinishing bathroom vanities?
ST: Without question, it’s the metallic epoxy. If it is a bathroom vanity project, the countertop refinishing kit is perfect because each kit covers up to 50 square feet and that’s about the size of your average bathroom countertop. If you’re really thinking about using a metallic epoxy for a countertop project, I recommend watching Ken Lazenby with Ken’s Custom Design on our website, directcolors.com or on YouTube. He has several excellent how-to videos that do a great job of demonstrating the process step-by-step.
Tommy: Any final thoughts for our listeners about taking on a bathroom remodeling project with our products?
ST: I’d say plan everything out carefully before you begin. Direct Colors has hundreds of project photos categorized by product or project in the case of concrete countertops. Make a note of what pictures appeal to you. Use the search bar on the website. Type in bathroom, remodeling or countertop to see all the relevant blog posts, featured projects and products that might be of interest to you. All of our product how-to guides and videos are available online so read up on the application details to help decide is this is the right direction for you. Lastly, call us to speak to a technician directly or send in a free online design consultation by email if you prefer to discuss the specifics of your project. We’re here to help and are happy to do so.
Tommy: Thanks, Shawna. That’s sound advice and if you’re a homeowner with a remodeling project call me, Tommy, at 877-255-2656 and we’ll determine the best products and technique for your needs. If you’d prefer to send us an email, visit /resources/design-consultation/ and we’ll get back to you within 24-48 hours.
Direct Colors DIY Home Improvement podcasts are produced twice monthly for your enjoyment and show notes can be found at directcolors.com/listen. Feel free to add the podcast to your favorite RSS feed. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ , YouTube and Instagram. I’m Tommy Carter and thanks again for joining us!
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You’re listening to DIRECTCOLORS.COM/LISTEN podcast episode number 28, How Do I Get Brilliant White Concrete? If this is your first time listening, then thanks for listening. I’m Tommy Carter, Sales Manager and Technician with Direct Colors. We receive a lot of requests for white concrete countertops. White is a popular color for kitchen tops as well as bathroom vanities but it’s not always easy find the materials you need to make a truly white countertop. Direct Color’s General Manager talks about how to get the most brilliant white color for your indoor and outdoor concrete projects! Thanks for joining us today, Shawna.
ST: Thank you.
TC: So, why is it so difficult to get a white concrete color?
ST: In order to get a brilliant white color, you’ll need to begin with either a white concrete countertop mix or concrete overlay. Unfortunately, white concrete mixes are often hard if not impossible to find locally. Often, gray Portland concrete mixes are all customers can find in their area. At best, gray concrete mixes will yield an ashen gray or light gray color even when a white concrete pigment has been added.
Direct Colors does offer both a white countertop mix and concrete overlay if you’re refinishing an existing countertop. We do recommend adding our TiO2 White Concrete Pigment to the mix for the most brilliant white finish possible.
TC: Just to be clear, can a customer use a gray countertop mix and get a white color?
ST: No, a truly white color can only be achieved using a concrete mix containing white Portland cement. As I mentioned, white concrete pigment can be added to gray concrete mix to create an ashen color (Ash TiO2-5lb.) but not a white (Pearl TiO2-5lb). Our TiO2 White Concrete Pigment is a powdered pigment and should be mixed into the either the countertop mix or overlay prior to applying.
TC: What options do our customers have for making an existing countertop white?
ST: Well, they have quite a few options for both indoor and outdoor projects. For an existing gray concrete countertop, for example, I’d recommend trying our white tinted concrete sealer. If they prefer a more solid look, this might be the fastest and least expensive option. Once the tinted sealer has been applied, topcoat the countertop with either a polyurethane or epoxy finish for best results. Keep in mind that epoxy would not be an option for an outdoor project.
Now, if they’re interested in a little metallic shimmer, they consider adding a Pearl metallic pigment in the epoxy countertop sealer for an extra a touch of class. It’s our most popular color on bathroom vanities. We offer complete kits for countertops including each of the products mentioned as well.
TC: Sounds great. We have several photos of countertops finished with a metallic epoxy on our website, don’t we?
ST: That’s correct. In the Direct Colors Concrete Countertop Photo Gallery.
TC: What about refinishing a Formica countertop?
ST: That’s by far the easiest and most affordable way to get a white kitchen countertop if you are starting with Formica. Direct Colors offers a white concrete overlay. TiO2 white concrete pigment color packs can also be added to overlay for a brilliant white finish. For our DIY customer, we have several how-to videos available for preparing, overlaying and sealing countertops that demonstrate the technique and products.
TC: Finally, what about sealers. What’s the best sealer for white concrete countertops?
We encourage customers with white countertops to apply a polyurethane sealer for greater durability, chemical and stain resistance. Direct Colors offers High Gloss, Glossy and Matte polyurethane sealer options for indoor or outdoor countertops. If using an epoxy, keep in mind that the sealer will yellow over time when exposed to direct sunlight. Epoxy countertop sealers should never be used outdoors but should be used with caution on indoor white countertops where direct sunlight might be an issue.
TC: Thanks for all that information. We hope this podcast will help customers find the products they need for white countertops and other concrete projects. DIRECTCOLORS.COM/LISTEN DIY Home Improvement podcasts are produced twice monthly for your enjoyment and show notes can be found at DIRECTCOLORS.COM/LISTEN. Feel free to add the podcast to your favorite RSS feed. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and Instagram. I’m Tommy Carter and thanks again for joining us!
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You’re listening to Direct Colors podcast Episode 6: Marble Effects on Concrete Countertops. If this is your first time listening, then thanks for joining us. Getting just the right look on countertops can be a challenge so we thought we’d consult with a professional to see what tricks he might have up his sleeve. We sat down with Ken Lazenby with Ken’s Custom Designs based in Krebs, OK to talk about how he creates marble effects on concrete countertops. Learn how he makes builds and creates his concrete countertops.
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Applying acid stain and concrete sealer in the summer months can be challenging especially if you live in a hot temperature climate. Here are a few tips from our own General Manager, Shawna Turner, for outdoor concrete and countertop projects that will help DIYer’s get it right the first time.
Amie Nolen: Welcome to the podcast, Shawna.
Shawna Turner: Thank you.
ST: Concrete temperature and wind conditions often determine success or failure for an acid stain project. Hot, dry conditions can cause acid stain to prematurely dry before properly reacting with the concrete. But how hot is too hot? Concrete shouldn’t be more than 75-80F for best staining results. Dry, windy conditions can wick the moisture from the concrete leaving a “blotchy” appearance behind particularly when using both light and dark colors.
ST: Well, it’s not quite as bad as all that. The most important step for homeowners applying acid stain either late in the evening or early in the morning when concrete temperatures are at their lowest. As the day heats up, so does the concrete and air begins to pass through the surface. When temperatures are cooling, the concrete contracts and is therefore a better candidate for staining or sealing. Keep in mind that direct sunlight and ambient temperature are not the same. Lay a thermometer on the concrete surface and cover with a towel. If after 4-5 minutes the temperature is greater than 80°F, do not stain.
Another valuable tip is to lightly dampen not flood the concrete before applying acid stain to add moisture and prevent premature drying. Premature drying can retard color development and isn’t helpful if you’re working with multiple colors outdoors.
ST: Without question, DO NOT attempt to seal in the heat of the day. Colored concrete in direct sunlight, especially dark browns and black, could be several times hotter than the ambient temperature and just a few minutes of sunlight will raise the surface temperature very quickly. If the concrete is too hot, small air bubbles will often appear either during the application or just after. The air bubbles are formed by air rising through the concrete and becoming trapped in the sealer. The bubbles will eventually collapse leaving unattractive concave spots behind. Not very attractive, especially on outdoor kitchen countertops.
Finding the right time of day to apply concrete sealer during the summer months can be a challenge. Sealers, like acid stain, should be applied when the concrete is at its lowest temperature either early in the morning or late in the evening. East facing concrete should be sealed later in the day and west facing early in the morning.
ST: Never if I can get away with it! No, I’m kidding. I usually do my resealing in the late spring when you can get a couple of rain free days and if that fails, before winter sets in. Because I live in Oklahoma where the summers are very hot, I seldom attempt to seal my exterior concrete during the summer months. It can be done but most of the time I don’t want to get up that early.
AN: Thanks for the summertime acid staining and sealing advice. I hope everyone will listen in before beginning their projects this summer season. If you have questions, call one of our expert technicians at 877-255-2656 and we’ll help you select the best products and technique for your needs. If you prefer email, send in a free online design consultation and we’ll get back to you within 24-48 hours.
Direct Colors DIY Home Improvement podcasts are produced twice monthly for your enjoyment and show notes can be found at directcolors.com/listen. Feel free to add the podcast to your favorite RSS feed. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ , YouTube and Instagram. Thanks again for joining us!
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You’re listening to Direct Colors Podcast Episode 14 – Care and Maintenance for Concrete Countertop Sealers. If this is your first time listening, then thanks for joining us. Our customers often ask us how they can best take care of their concrete countertop sealers and keep them looking great. We’ve given some thought to this question and here to tell us more is Direct Colors General Manager, Shawna Turner. Continue reading “Podcast: Care and Maintenance for Concrete Countertop Sealers”
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You’re listening to Direct Colors podcast Episode 16: Tips for Successfully Sealing Outdoor Countertops. If this is your first time listening, then thanks for listening. After investing a great deal of time and effort into your countertop project, you want the last step to go smoothly. You may not realize that there are differences between successfully sealing indoor countertops and sealing outdoor countertops but there are and here to tell us all about it is Shawna Turner, General Manager for Direct Colors. Continue reading “Podcast: Tips for Successfully Sealing Outdoor Countertops”
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You’re listening to Direct Colors podcast Episode 34: Q&A Customers Ask Top Acid Staining Questions If this is your first time listening, then thanks for listening. I’m Shawna Turner, General Manager with Direct Colors.
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You’re listening to Direct Colors podcast Episode 7: Applying Metallic Epoxy Countertop Sealer. Metallic epoxy finishes are new to Direct Colors. There are so many color and technique possibilities with metallics we wanted to discuss the technical details of the product to help our customers better understand how to use metallic epoxy for their own countertops. Here’s Direct Colors Design Technician, Justin Richardson, to talk about applying Metallic Epoxy Countertop Sealer for indoor countertop projects.
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You’re listening to Direct Colors podcast Episode 4: Calculating Pigment Colors for Any Concrete Project. Here at Direct Colors we encounter just about every concrete-related project there is. Learn how to use our Concrete Pigment Project Calculators for your particular project large or small.
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Concrete pigments can be used for a lot more than just slabs. Our customers buy Direct Colors pigments for everything from decorative planters to warehouse slabs and just about everything in between. With more on the many uses for DIY concrete pigment is Shawna Turner, General Manager, with Direct Colors. Welcome, Shawna.
Shawna: Thank you very much
Lisa: So let’s have it. What’s the most popular use for concrete pigment?
ST: Without a doubt, it’s concrete slabs of every kind. If you’re just looking for a solid, rich color in your concrete nothing better than concrete pigment. It’s a stress-free color option and really the only thing the home or business owner has to do is seal the concrete after 30 days curing time. Integrally colored concrete is very popular for outdoor concrete, especially stamped concrete, but it’s increasingly popular for interior floors as well because it’s cost effective, easy and low maintenance.
Lisa: Please explain the difference between concrete pigment and integral color. Is it the same thing?
ST: Yes, it is but I can see were the terms might be confusing. Concrete pigment is a powdered pigment added to concrete prior to pouring to integrally color or color the concrete throughout. Because the concrete is integrally colored, the color is still visible even if the surface is damaged or chipped. The color really is permanent though it can fade somewhat overtime if not properly sealed.
Lisa: What are some other popular options for concrete pigment?
ST: I think concrete countertops are probably our second most popular project. Customers choose concrete pigment for countertops for the same reason as floors – easy to use, consistent color and good selections of color options. Pigment can be used in either a poured concrete countertop or in our concrete overlay. Our most popular concrete countertop color is by far our 15.4 Premium Blue Pigment followed by the 230 Black pigment. People really love their blue and black countertops.
Lisa: Can you use pigment for grout, mortar or other finishing materials?
ST: Sure. We get a lot of calls for custom grout colors in particular but concrete pigment can be used with any cement-based material. Stucco is also very popular. We offer a wider color selection than can be found at most big-box stores and we sell direct to the public. It’s difficult for DIYer’s looking for smaller pigment quantities to find affordable products locally or online. We have three varieties of blue concrete pigment for sale on our website, directcolors.com, which is a challenging color to find generally.
Lisa: Is there anything special about Direct Colors pigments that sets them apart from other products on the market?
ST: Why of course! Seriously though, it is important to choose pigments according to their use. Our pigments are UV stable and chemically inert so they can be used outdoors as well as with many different cement-based materials. Pigments that are not UV resistant will fade and deteriorate with exposure to sunlight. Because our pigments are non-reactive, they can be safely added to integrally color most any cement-based material. Keep in mind that all outdoor projects should be sealed with a quality concrete sealer and most indoor projects. Sealing protects the surface from undesirable staining, makes clean up easier and darkens the concrete color overall.
We use the same pigments in our Liquid Colored Antique and Tinted Concrete Sealers so each product can be used outdoors and if well maintained over time, the color will not fade with exposure to sunlight.
Lisa: Thank you, Shawna, for the information about what projects concrete pigment can be used for. Here are few blogs post on the subject from our website, directcolors.com – Color Stucco and Plaster with DCI Concrete Pigments, Top 10 Uses for Professional and DIY Concrete Pigment and Integral Color and Concrete Pigment for Tile Grout Color and More. A little something for everyone.
Lisa: directcolors.com/listen includes podcasts on many decorative concrete topics so visit our podcast library, including Episode 19: Calculating Pigment for Coloring Grout, Stucco, Mortar and Plaster and check back frequently to see what’s new in the world of DIY decorative concrete! Thank you for listening.
Lisa: The DIRECTCOLORS.COM/LISTEN podcast is produced twice monthly for your enjoyment and show notes can be found at DIRECTCOLORS.COM/LISTEN. Come back often and feel free to add the podcast to your favorite RSS feed. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and Instagram. All links are in the show notes. I’m Lisa Bickel and thank you for joining us!
