Factors Influencing Final Color & Appearance
The final color and appearance will be influenced by the concrete age, composition, technique used to finish the concrete, and application technique. Application to undisturbed slabs will be more paint like. Application to slabs with the top paste layer removed will be grainier. If floors are ground to expose aggregates, mortar areas will likely accept more color than rock surfaces.
Jobsite Test Sections
Verify and approve suitability and appearance by making jobsite test sections prior to general application. Apply each dye color onto each type and age of concrete or topping surface, and use each sealer technique that is to be used. Test sections must be of adequate size to be representative and be produced by the same workers who will apply product to the larger job. Test completed systems for wet and dry slip resistance to ensure they are safe. Do not proceed with products, techniques, or finishing systems that do not meet required safety specifications or site owner approval.
Dye Application
Mask all areas not to be dyed to safeguard against splashes, overspray, and runoff from application. Only work in a well ventilated area. Wear all required safety equipment. Do not work around any possible ignition sources. Take care not to allow tape adhesive to interfere with surfaces to be dyed.
The following 8 steps have proven successful for floors in a wide range of conditions.
1. Grind or open the surface to the desired level of aggregate exposure. This may require rotary equipment. Finish with 400 grit abrasive disks or pads.
2. Remove dust by vacuum.
3. Mix dye and acetone as directed.
4. Apply the SCOFIELD® Formula One™ Liquid Dye Concentrate mixture. This can be done with an acetone resistant low pressure garden sprayer, mop, or brush. Apply in a circular motion to just saturate the surface. Second coat or complementary colors can be used at this time.
5. Allow surfaces to dry. This will take 30 minutes depending on weather conditions.
6. Remove surplus dye. Use rotary equipment with stiff bristle brushes or fine honing 800 grit abrasives to remove excess dye and expose desired aggregate surfaces. Remove any dusts with vacuum.
7. Lock in dye with densifier or sealers/topcoats. Follow application instructions for these products. If using solvent based products, apply 1st coat with spray equipment to avoid lap lines and roller marks.
8. Proceed to polishing if desired.
For Vertical Applications: Apply by acetone resistant garden sprayer consistently from the bottom up or the top down. Brush out drips immediately. Allow to dry at least 2 hours before application of sealer systems or vertical polishing.