Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions Answered.

What is the NAWKAW Colouring process?

• It is the process of applying a final colour to the precast element after it has been formed, cured and cleaned.
• The colour is impregnated into the surface of the masonry and absorbed through the porous surface.
• The method used ensures an even application of colour resulting in a finish that meets the design specifications.  Whether that be a near flawless finish or one with varied depths of colour and shade.

 Who applies the colour?

• NAWKAW employs its own team of technicians trained to use the colour penetration technology.  We take complete responsibility for both the manufacture and installation of the product.
• This guarantees a professional level of service throughout the process and ensures the quality of the finished product.

Is the Product Guaranteed?

• The standard range of NAWKAW coloured concrete is guaranteed for a minimum of 25 years.
• NAWKAW’s penetrating emulsions are formulated with colour fast oxide pigments.  As the colour penetrates the surface of the concrete it will not fade, peel or crack and requires no on-going maintenance. 
• It is a colouring solution with an enduring finish.

What Colours are Available?

• If you can imagine it we can create it! We can achieve a limitless array of colours using a combination of inorganic and organic colourants. The 25 year guarantee we offer is on NAWKAW colour systems that are formulated with our standard range of inorganic oxides.
• If you’re after a customised solution we will refer you to the popular RAL Colour Specification System and work with you to achieve the exact shade you require.

How does NAWKAW allow for design flexibility?

• Colours can be custom formulated to meet the design requirements.
• The application process means that multiple colours can be used on one panel and within a project.
• Precise colour placement is guaranteed as the colour is applied by hand onto the surface of the panel.
• Rich, deep colours will not fade and will not have colour variance.
• NAWKAW’s colour technology has been designed to compliment textures.  When formliners are used to create textured architectural façade’s, NAWKAW will manufacture the appropriate colour palette.  To date NAWKAW’s technology has been utilised to re-create the look of traditional brickwork, blockwork, slate, timber and sandstone onto precast panels.

 Is there an environmental advantage?

• The colour emulsion is water based and classified as non-hazardous. 
• It uses between 500 – 1000 times less oxide when compared with traditional colouring methods that use integral oxide.
• It has a longer life cycle than painted finishes, requiring no on-going maintenance

Who benefits from NAWKAW Coloured Precast Elements?

• Architects
• Endless possibilities when choosing colour and the ability to combine texture and colour to create unique facades.

• Builders and Developers
•  Faster and more cost effective sourcing of pre cast elements.
• No disruptions to the construction schedule due to colour variation
• No unsightly patching as a near flawless finish is produced

• Manufacturers
• Grey panels can be supplied into architectural applications
• Unacceptable colour variations are avoided meaning that panels will no longer need to be written-off or remade due to poor colour production.