Jan 10
19
When making artificial rocks or concrete that is designed to look like rock, it is necessary to color the concrete. This can be done in a number of different ways, including adding pigments to the concrete mix and using stains and paints on the finished concrete. One simple way to paint concrete to resemble rock is to use multiple colors of paint, applying them in a watered down solution using paint spraying equipment, which will produce a speckled look similar to granite.
Supplies Needed for Painting Concrete
Spray equipment is necessary for painting concrete using this method. If you don\’t have access to professional quality paint spraying equipment, hand-held spray bottles that can be manually pumped up will work. Having one spray bottle for each color you plan on using is the most convenient method to use. Always use safety goggles and gloves when spraying paint, and have a bucket nearby so that you can catch the paint while adjusting the spray setting on the bottle before each application of paint. Put down a large tarp or drop cloth to catch the overspray. A number of different colors of paints will be needed, including at least a light and dark color of brown, white, black, and ideally some other rock color variations such as grays, reds and yellows. In order to achieve the proper paint thickness for spraying, the paint colors will be thinned one part paint to approximately three parts water.
Applying the Paint
Start by spraying the concrete with an overall base color, such as brown or gray. Make sure the paint is sprayed onto the concrete in a very fine mist, getting a good overall coverage with the base coat. Then, let this coat dry completely before proceeding, to avoid the colors running together. Add other colors one at a time, to create highlights and darker areas, always using a very fine misting pattern and allowing each color to completely dry before using the next color, unless you are attempting to create a blended or shaded result with two wet colors being applied at the same time. It will generally take many different applications of paint to get a realistic looking finish. Brown, tan, gray, yellows and reds can be used at almost any point in the painting, but white should only be used very lightly if needed. Black is also used sparingly, although a very fine spray of black will add realism if used during the final coat of paint. If you don\’t have access to spray equipment, you can also paint artificial rocks with other types of materials, such as sponges, brushes, or wadded up paper or plastic. When using these other methods, you should also generally allow one color of paint to dry before using the next, to prevent them from mixing too much.
Sealing the Paint Finish
After the final spray coat of paint has been applied, let the paint dry completely according to the manufacturer\’s directions. Then, seal the paint finish with a water-based concrete sealant, applying again with a spray bottle. Apply several light coats, making sure to allow time between coats for the sealant to dry completely.
Caring for Painted Concrete
Once the painted concrete rocks have been sealed, they will be weather resistant for outdoor use. However, the sealant should be re-applied periodically to preserve the paint finish, unless a more weathered look is desired.
Mr. Peter Heiss and Mr. Mark MacIsaac – are the preeminent designers in the Pacific Northwest and have spent a lifetime studying and emulating all of nature\’s beauty. We can create pools, hot tubs, waterfalls and every other feature out of any rock you choose. At Raincity Rock & Waterscapes
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