Masonry Magazine June 2001 Page. 38
This Idea is Absolutely, Positively... Brilliant!
Two new polymer-based coloring systems:
C-Sperse - C-Sperse allows you to create brilliant, durable, low cost concrete colors.
C-Swirl - You can create random mosaic patterns, marbles, swirls, granites and other custom patterns.
Enhanced dispersion makes the colors POP!
Conventional CCT
The savings will amaze you.
Cost Comparison
Price of Standard Blue
Price of CCT Blue
Price of Standard Green
Price of CCT Green
If saving up to 60% on Blue, having stable earth tones, plus a whole new range of colors sounds good to you, call us at 800-893-8930 or email info@cctusa.com.
Efflorescence is a common problem and tends to be more noticeable with colored mortar. Although color is often blamed for efflorescence, pigments do not contribute to the formation of efflorescence. To reduce the occurrence of efflorescence during construction, the masonry walls should be kept dry by covering with a strong waterproof tarp at the end of each day. The design of the wall should include proper flashing to prevent penetration of wind driven rains and allow weep holes for proper drainage. Masonry walls that have trapped moisture perpetuate the occurrence and reoccurrence of efflorescence.
The water to cement ratio of the mixed mortar will dictate the color shade of the mortar joint. A mortar mix with more water will lighten the color of the mortar joint because the pigment particles are spread further apart by the extra water. Conversely, a mortar mix with less water will appear darker in color. Retempering of colored mortar with the addition of water should be avoided.
The rate of hydration affects the final shade of the mortar color. Cold weather masonry work has a slower cure cycle verses warmer masonry work. Therefore jobs started at one time of the year and finished at another time of year can experience a difference in the final color due to changes in the rate of hydration. During colder temperatures the occurrence of efflorescence is more common due to the rate of hydration being slower.
The use of mortar color is not terribly difficult, but it takes some care and consistency to assure a uniform job. Designers and specifiers must have realistic expectations concerning acceptable mortar color variations. Natural stone and wood have inherently subtle color variations, which makes the aesthetic appeal of the natural products more appealing. Colored masonry provides architects with this natural appeal. Fortunately, the masonry and color industries have years of experience using mortar color. Lets use color to our advantage.
COLOR & CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGIES INC. 360 State Highway 31 S. Suite 400 Washington NJ 07882
An Innovative Blend of Color and Chemistry www.colorandchemical.com
Rich Solomon is Vice President of Solomon Colors. Solomon Colors is a leading producer of mortar colors to the masonry industry. Rich Solomon can be reached at rsalamon@solomoncolors.com or by using www.solomoncolors.com.