Coloring Cement
#1
Coloring Cement
I want to make a molded concrete pathway using red colored cement. I made a small path a few years ago in the back yard using red dyed cement and a mold. Now I want to continue the path around the front of the house and probably build a small patio, too.
However, the red dye costs more than the cement! It's about $4 a bottle or box -- the cement costs about $3 for 60-80lb bags. I only get about one and one third molds with an 80lb bag. So the path, which is pretty long, will cost a lot when the dye is factored in.
(A) Is there a cheaper way to dye my cement red?
(B) Is there a cheaper way to make cement than buying 80lb bags? Having a truck deliver it wet is not an option. I need it dry to work on it as I have time.
Any suggestions greatly appreciated. Incidentally, I don't want to buy pre made concrete forms as they don't look at all similar to the rounded stone ones I've already molded. I just want to continue with the same mold but hopefully without it costing an arm and a leg!
However, the red dye costs more than the cement! It's about $4 a bottle or box -- the cement costs about $3 for 60-80lb bags. I only get about one and one third molds with an 80lb bag. So the path, which is pretty long, will cost a lot when the dye is factored in.
(A) Is there a cheaper way to dye my cement red?
(B) Is there a cheaper way to make cement than buying 80lb bags? Having a truck deliver it wet is not an option. I need it dry to work on it as I have time.
Any suggestions greatly appreciated. Incidentally, I don't want to buy pre made concrete forms as they don't look at all similar to the rounded stone ones I've already molded. I just want to continue with the same mold but hopefully without it costing an arm and a leg!
#2
color
How about getting a gal. or 2 of epoxy made for cement, pick the color you want, preform the blocks, add some sand to the epoxy to give it a non skid surface and coat the blocks, let dry and place them. You can also coat over the existing walk to get a match. Home Depot should be able to help you with this.