ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE™

TECHNICAL DATA & INSTALLATION INFORMATION
ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE™
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Waterborne Dye
Designed to be used with ARDEX PC-T™ Polished Concrete Topping
For interior use only
Available in 8 colors
Description and Usage
ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE™ is waterborne dye designed for use with the ARDEX Polished
Concrete System (APCS). When applied to the surface of ARDEX PC-T™ Polished Concrete
Topping, it will provide a penetrating, variegated coloring effect without creating a film or coating
that can be worn away. ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE is low VOC and is safe to use on any project.
ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE is for interior applications only. It deeply penetrates and resides in
the microscopic voids and substrate structure of properly prepared ARDEX PC-T Polished
Concrete Topping. ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE is a viable alternative to reactive stains, or
acetone based dyes. It is also safe to use in enclosed areas as it emits no hazardous or
offensive fumes. ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE is manufactured as a concentrate that is diluted with
water and is ready for immediate application. The material can be further diluted to create a
large spectrum of colors.
Substrate Preparation
The surface of the ARDEX PC-T Polished Concrete Topping should be properly processed
through diamond grinding stages, before receiving the application of ARDEX PC COLORDYE™. For installations on ARDEX PC-T Polished Concrete Topping, the surface should be
polished to a minimum of a 200 polish level prior to installation.
Recommended Tools
Typical application equipment may include; an airless sprayer, a quality pump type sprayer
equipped with a conical tip, an HVLP (high volume low pressure) sprayer, or a hybrid spraying
system designed for use with dyes and colorants.
Mixing and Application
The ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE concentrate should be mixed using clean potable or distilled
water. One 32 oz. bottle should be mixed with 5 gallons of water. Mix completely by hand
using a stir stick. Power mixing is not required. After the material has been mixed, it may be
used immediately. After mixing with the appropriate amount of water, ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE
will cover approximately 400-500 square feet per mixed gallon. A sample or test area should
always be done before the application to ensure that proper amount is being used.
Processing of the ARDEX PC-T Polished Concrete Topping surface, including all edge work
must be completed prior to the application. The surface should be thoroughly cleaned before
the application. For ARDEX PC-T Polished Concrete Topping installations, this may include a
broom, squeegee and vacuum. Be sure to mask any adjacent areas not intended to be dyed.
Protect any walls or other finished surfaces.
After mixing the ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE the material should be placed into the spraying
system to be used. Begin the application by spraying evenly over the surface in circular
motions at the rate of 400-500 square feet per gallon. After the surface has dried completely,
process the surface with an additional pass with the most recent used diamonds to remove any
residual material that did not penetrate the surface during the application. The surface may
then be treated with the ARDEX PC-10™ Lithium Densifier. The ARDEX PC-10 Lithium
Densifier has been formulated specifically for use on polymer based overlay materials. Apply
the ARDEX PC-10 Lithium Densifier according to the application instructions. Allow it to dry
completely before continuing to the next step. Further polishing may continue to the desired
level of polish prior to applying the ARDEX PC-FINISH™. Install the ARDEX PC-FINISH
according to the application instructions to protect and preserve the finished floor.
Drying Time
The drying times for ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE will vary based on the substrate temperature and
porosity. Typically the material will dry completely in 30-45 minutes. If low temperatures or high
humidity are present, the ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE will take longer to dry. Installation on
substrates below 50 °F is not recommended. Do not over apply the ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE
as it will increase the drying time and produce color rings around any puddles. If a second
application of ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE is required, allow 30-45 minutes between coats.
Maintenance
The finished installation must be maintained in order to preserve the aesthetics. Treating the
surface with 2 coats of ARDEX PC-FINISH is required for longevity. Apply the ARDEX PCFINISH according to the product installation sheet. The surface should be kept clean as
excessive wear and abrading may affect the color and gloss level of the floor. A regular
maintenance schedule should be adhered to including, daily cleaning, monthly cleaning, and
burnishing. The amount of traffic on the floor will dictate the frequency of the maintenance
requirements.
Notes
ARDEX PC COLOR-DYE is designed for interior use only and should not be used in
applications that will be subjected to direct UV Light exposure. The material should be applied
with ambient temperatures between 50°F and 90°F. The substrate should be completely clean
and free of any debris, dust or contaminates that can prevent the product from properly
penetrating into the surface. Do not allow the product to freeze during storage. If the product
has been frozen, it should not be used.
Always install an adequate number of properly located test areas, including the processing, to
determine the suitability and aesthetic value of the products for the intended use.
Technical Data According To ARDEX Quality Standards
Physical properties are typical values and not specifications.
Coverage:
1 gallon mix / 400 to 500 sq.ft. per gallon
Packaging:
Packaged in 32 oz. bottle
Colors:
Available in Gold, Tan, Nutmeg, Red Brown, Light Brown, Brown, Dark Gray and
Black
Storage: The product should be stored indoors, away from heat or direct sunlight. Do not allow
the material to freeze.
Shelf Life: One year if unopened
Warranty: ARDEX Engineered Cements Standard Limited Warranty applies.
For complete safety information, please refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
available at www.ardexamericas.com.

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