Q.: We're bidding a job that requires a white concrete floor. Another bidder has proposed mixing white latex paint in with the concrete. Can this work?
A.: We checked with two experts in applications of latexes and other polymers in concrete, and neither has heard of this practice nor believes it would work. The latex used in paint is not compatible with portland cement, so adding latex paint to the concrete mix could make a gooey mess. If any of our readers have tried this, please tell us your experiences.
We recommend you stick to the proven methods of producing white concrete surfaces: use white portland cement, color concrete with a titanium dioxide pigment, or apply a white surface coating.
