If you have some dreary concrete spaces on your front porch or backyard patio, it’s easy to spiff them up with a coat of paint, stain, or fun stencils.

To liven up concrete stairs, porches, patios, pathways, and more, just follow these steps provided by our partners at American Home Shield®. You’ll be amazed at how much it can freshen up your outdoor spaces while still sticking to your budget!

1. Prepare and clean the concrete

Prep the concrete by giving the area a thorough sweep or use a leaf blower. You will also want to use a pressure washer to remove any stubborn moss or dirt.  

2. Remove grease or oil

Use concrete cleaner and degreaser to remove grease and oil from the concrete surface. Coatings of any kind should be removed before applying any other products.  

3. Patch cracks or uneven surfaces 

Using concrete caulk sealant, patch any small cracks and allow to dry for at least 24 hours. Once dry, use a scrub brush to remove extra caulk residue from the concrete.

4. Wait for a period of dry weather

It’s best to try to time the application to a period when you may have 3-4 days of sunny or dry weather to complete the entire project. Here in Southern California, dry weather isn’t hard to come by, but you should still check the forecast!

5. Apply concrete paint primer

Before applying, use painter’s tape to protect any surfaces that you don’t want painted. Then, apply a bonding primer before you apply concrete paint. This will ensure a smooth application and a more durable finish.  

6. Choose the right paint or stain 

Be sure to use masonry paint or concrete stain when painting or staining concrete.

Pro tip: Masonry paint is sometimes called elastomeric paint or elastomeric wall coating. 

7. Apply a second coat 

Wait at least 12 hours for the paint to dry before you apply a second coat. It’s also suggested that you add a slip-resistant additive for pathways, steps, and highly trafficked areas. 

8. Allow to dry and then apply sealant 

Once the paint is dry, you will need to apply a sealant once the second coat of paint has been let to dry for another 24 hours.

9. Allow to completely dry 

Before using the concrete space, allow the area to dry fully for at least 24 hours, but ideally 48 hours to be safe.

For more advice and tips when it comes to painting your concrete patio, read more from American Home Shield.

DIY tips are for informational purposes only. Please be sure to take the appropriate safety precautions and ensure your project complies with any applicable federal, state, or local laws and regulations.