Ready Mixed Batching Procedures for QC Integral Color

DO

• Maintain batch to batch uniformity.

• Keep all raw materials, including cement, sand and aggregates, as consistent as possible. Any change can affect color consistency.

• Start batching with clean, wet drum.

• Add approximately 40 gallons (151.4 litres) of water and 25% of total aggregate before adding QC Integral Color. Add one bag of QC Integral Color per cubic yard of concrete. Mix briefly, then add cement and balance of water, sand and aggregates. Be sure QC Integral Color is packaged for specific mix design.
  
• 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 color 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 QC Integral Color. Less than three cubic yards can affect the final color. This is true of small jobs, job site samples and/or clean up loads.
  
• Do not batch fractional yard increments (e.g., 4.5 yards should be ordered and batched at 5 cubic yards).

• Do not use reactive or expansive aggregates when using QC Integral Color.
  
• Do not use calcium chloride color when using QC Integral Color.

Suggestions for Concrete Contractors

Good basic concrete placement procedures are vital to the success of any job where integrally colored 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 vary 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 color. Whenever possible, use QC Color Cure. QC Color Cure is a cure and seal product conforming to ASTM C 309. A finish coat of QC Color Cure may be used if desired. Apply per QC Color 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, nonmembraned curing paper may be considered. Use according to manufacturer's instructions.

QC Construction Products. LLC
(800) 453-8213 • www.qcconprod.com