Ready Mixed Batching Procedures for ColorTech

Do

• Maintain batch to batch uniformity.
• Keep all raw materials, including cement, sand and aggregates, as consistent as possible.  Any change can affect colour consistency.
• Start batching with clean, wet drum.
• Add approximately 40 gallons (151.4 liters) of water and 25% of total aggregate before adding ColorTech.  Add proper amount of ColorTech per mix design.  For example, a two pound dose per sack of cement (one sack equals 94 U.S. pounds) at a five sack per cubic yard mix design would equal 10 pounds of ColorTech per cubic yard of concrete (U.S.).  Mix briefly, then add cement and balance of water, sand and aggregates.  Be sure accurate and consistent weights of ColorTech are used.
• Clean back fins with a minimum amount of water
• Ensure slump remains consistent and does not exceed five inches (12.7 cm).  Too much water or the addition of water at the job site can cause inconsistency of colour and a "washed out" appearance.
• Mix at mixing speed for a minimum of 15 minutes.

Do Not

• Do not batch less than three cubic yards (2.3 cubic meters) of ColorTech.  Less than three cubic yards can affect the final colour.  This is true of small jobs, job site samples and/or clean up loads.
• Do not use reactive or expansive aggregates with ColorTech concrete.
• Do not use calcium chloride colour when using ColorTech.

Suggestions for Concrete Contractors

Good basic concrete placement procedures are vital to the success of any job where integrally coloured concrete is being used.

Do

• Place concrete on damp, yet well-drained, substrate which has been thoroughly compacted.
• Tamp and/or vibrate concrete (be careful not to overwork material), screed, then wood float to finished grade.
• Provide adequate and uniform texture for appearance and slip resistance.
• Finish edges first and finish all surfaces within the same approximate time frame.

Do Not

• Do not place concrete over mud, free standing water, ice or frost.
• Do not add water to partially discharged loads and do not allow slump to very from batch to batch.  Maintain a four to five inch (10.2 to 12.7 cm) slump.
• Lack of proper curing is the number one reason for inconsistent concrete colour.  Whenever possible, use QC COLOUR CURE.  QC COLOUR CURE is a cure and seal product conforming to ASTM C 309.  A finish coat of QC COLOUR CURE may be used if desired.  Apply per QC COLOUR CURE Product Information Bulletin.  Use of QC CLEAR CURE and QC CLEAR CURE MATTE FINISH may also be considered.
• In the event a curing compound cannot be used, the use of a non-wrinkled, non-membraned curing paper may be considered.  Use according to manufacturer's instructions.