Not All Colour Is Created Equal — And It’s Easy to Choose the Wrong One
Concrete can be coloured in several ways — but the method you choose affects everything from durability to colour depth to maintenance. Do you want subtle, natural tones or rich, vibrant finishes? Do you need a full-depth colour or just a decorative top layer? This guide compares four common methods: integral pigment vs acid stain, and concrete dye vs dry shake surface hardener. By the end, you’ll know exactly which one suits your floor, use case, and finish goals.
- Full-depth colour mixed into concrete at batching stage
- UV-stable and won’t fade or wear off
- Ideal for large slabs, external use, or structural colour
- Limited to softer, muted colours
- Can be inconsistent across multiple truck loads
- More expensive at batching level
- React chemically for natural, mottled tones
- Great for decorative or aged finishes
- Low cost and deep penetration
- Requires neutralisation and sealing
- Limited colour range (mostly earth tones)
- Hard to repair or touch up consistently
- Wide colour range including bright and modern tones
- Quick to apply — ideal for polished concrete floors
- Works well on interiors or refinishing projects
- Not UV-stable without sealing — can fade outdoors
- Requires a clean, porous surface
- Can highlight surface flaws or inconsistencies
- Adds colour + surface hardness in one application
- Excellent wear resistance for industrial or garage slabs
- Works during finishing phase on fresh pours
- Needs skilled application — timing is critical
- Can’t be applied after slab is cured
- Colour may vary with moisture content during application
Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Colouring Method:
- New pour? Want even colour throughout? → Go with integral pigment or dry shake.
- Polishing later? Want vibrant colour? → Use dye and seal properly.
- Looking for a rustic, natural tone? → Acid stain gives that aged, variegated look.
- Industrial or heavy-use slab? → Surface hardener gives the best wear resistance + colour.
What’s the most durable way to colour concrete?
Dry shake hardeners are the most durable for surface wear, especially in garages or commercial spaces. Integral pigments offer full-depth colour that won’t wear off but don’t improve surface hardness.
Can I use a dye over an old concrete slab?
Yes, but the surface must be clean, porous, and free of sealers. Dyes work best on mechanically prepared surfaces and are ideal for polished concrete applications.
Do I need to seal coloured concrete?
Yes — especially if using dye, acid stain, or dry shake. Sealing enhances colour, prevents fading, and protects the surface from moisture, oil, and wear.