Dulux Avista Colour Through — Integral Concrete Colour System

The Dulux Avista Colour Through system represents the ultimate in permanent concrete colouring — where premium synthetic iron oxide pigments are mixed throughout the entire depth of the concrete rather than applied as a surface treatment. Unlike coloured sealers or colour hardeners that colour only the top few millimetres, Colour Through ensures that if the surface wears, chips, or is scratched, the same colour is revealed beneath. This makes it the ideal choice for high-traffic driveways, commercial pavements, and any application where long-term colour integrity is non-negotiable.

Colour Through concrete is achieved by adding Dulux Avista Oxide pigments directly to the concrete at the batching stage — either at the ready-mix plant or on-site during mixing. The pigment is dispersed throughout the entire concrete matrix, delivering consistent, UV-stable colour that will never peel, flake, or fade. It is then sealed with a clear Dulux Avista sealer to enhance the colour and protect the surface from staining.

Key Features

• Colour Through Entire Depth: Unlike surface-only colour systems, the pigment is present throughout the full concrete thickness — chips and scratches reveal the same colour.
• Permanent, UV-Stable Colour: Synthetic iron oxides are chemically stable and will not fade under Australian sunlight.
• No Peeling or Flaking: There is no coloured coating to wear away — the colour is part of the concrete itself.
• Wide Colour Range: Available in a range of colours to suit any design aesthetic.
• Compatible with All Finishes: Can be used with stamped, stencilled, exposed aggregate, and polished concrete finishes.

Application

Colour Through requires the oxide pigment to be added during the concrete batching process. It cannot be retroactively applied to existing concrete. The concrete is poured, finished, and cured as normal, then sealed with a clear Dulux Avista sealer to enhance the colour and provide surface protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is Colour Through different from a coloured sealer?

A coloured sealer is a surface coating — the colour sits on top of the concrete in a thin film. If the sealer wears, peels, or is scratched, the natural grey concrete is exposed beneath. Colour Through integrates the pigment into the entire concrete mix — if the surface is scratched or worn, the same colour is present throughout. Colour Through is permanent; coloured sealers require maintenance recoating.

2. Can I apply Colour Through to my existing driveway?

No. Colour Through must be incorporated during the concrete batching process — it cannot be applied to existing concrete. If you want to add colour to an existing driveway, consider the Dulux Avista Resurfacing System with Colour Oxide, or a tinted sealer applied over the existing surface.

3. Will the colour fade over time?

The synthetic iron oxide pigments used in Colour Through are chemically stable and UV-resistant. The colour will not fade. However, the sealed surface may require periodic maintenance (cleaning and resealing every few years) to keep the concrete looking its best. Any apparent colour dulling is typically surface soiling, not pigment degradation.

4. Does Colour Through concrete cost more than standard concrete?

Yes — adding oxide pigment increases the material cost per cubic metre of concrete. However, when compared to the combined cost of plain concrete plus a coloured sealer or resurfacing system (and their ongoing maintenance), Colour Through can be cost-competitive over the life of the surface, particularly in high-wear applications.

5. What sealer should I use over Colour Through concrete?

Any clear Dulux Avista sealer is suitable. For a natural, matt appearance, choose the Water Based Penetrating Sealer. For a colour-enhancing semi-gloss wet look, choose the General Purpose Sealer or Extended Wear Sealer. For maximum durability and gloss, choose the 2 Pack Urethane.

6. Can I combine Colour Through with stamped or stencilled patterns?

Yes — Colour Through provides the base colour, and stamping or stencilling adds pattern and texture. The combination of integral colour with decorative patterning creates stunning, professional results that rival natural stone at a fraction of the cost.