A uniform appearance on concrete projects is not always possible due to differences in batch mixes and composition. You can, however, maintain a reasonable level of consistency by hiring a concrete contractor who can deliver high-quality workmanship. Though you may not be able to avoid some amount of discoloration once your concrete has cured, as a homeowner, you should know what causes this aesthetic issue as well as the countermeasures for it.

What Results in Concrete Discoloration?

Aside from varying materials, other reasons for excessive discoloration include using cement replacements and adding calcium chloride or water at the job site. Calcium chloride is sometimes mixed into the concrete to accelerate the curing process during less than ideal circumstances, such as low temperatures and humidity levels or inclement weather. When mixes are modified on-site by concrete contractors, water and moisture levels of the cement can become inconsistent and give the concrete a blotchy appearance once it hardens. A reliable concrete contractor should take these factors into account and adjust accordingly.

How to Fix It

There are a few things you can do to remove—or at least reduce—excessive discoloration. First is by flushing the concrete surface with hot water and then scrubbing it with a stiff brush. Repeat the process until discoloration disappears or is minimized. For severe cases, use a mild acid solution with 1% concentration of muriatic acid or 1% acetic or phosphoric acid. Test it on a small patch of the concrete before applying on the entire hardened slab. Wet the area before application of the acid wash and flush with clean water before drying. Wash the area with clean water within 15 minutes after application. Keep in mind that this method is worth trying when your concrete is in excellent condition; otherwise, you may be better off replacing the concrete, especially if it has cracks or a damaged surface.

Count on B.H. Hall Ready Mix Concrete to provide high-quality cement and ready-mix concrete for any project. Based in Hawkinsville, GA, they are among the leading concrete contractors in and around Pulaski County. They will come to your project site equipped with mixing trucks, a skilled crew, and all the concrete products needed to do the job. Call their friendly customer team at (478) 272-7700 to schedule a delivery or visit the website to see their list of services.