Concrete is an inexpensive, durable building material, but all that gray can be boring.
A coat of paint will help disguise repairs onconcrete walkwaysand steps.
The result is a clean, finished look that will give a home’s entrance great curb appeal.
Credit:BHG / Jiaqi Zhou
Preparation is key to learning how to paint concrete.
Getting the surface as clean and smooth as possible will give you the best results.
And when shopping for products, look for cleaners and sealers specially formulated for concrete.
Credit:BHG / Jiaqi Zhou
If you’re working outdoors, rip out any moss or weeds from the cracks of your walkway.
Need a deeper clean?
Use a power washer to make sureeverything is off the concrete.
Let the concrete dry completely before moving on to the next steps.
If you’re unsure, have a professional check it out.
Patch Holes and Cracks
Sand Smooth
Sand off any rough spots or bumps.
Sandpaper attached to an inexpensivepole sanderlets you cover more ground faster without bending over.
make a run at get the surface as smooth as possible before painting.
Clean up your sanding residuewith a vacuumif you’re working inside.
Be sure to wear a dust mask, protective glasses, and gloves.
Give the concrete another rinse with a powerwasher before this step, if needed.
Always wear protective gear when working with any strong chemicals.
Cover anyrust spotswithconcrete sealing primerand let dry fully before painting.
Concrete is highly porous, so don’t skip the priming step, or your paint won’t stick!
Some paints come with primer already in the formula.
If that’s the case, then you might dive right into painting.
Choose a non-skid exterior or interior concrete paint accordingly, depending on what you’re painting.
Paint the area of your choice with a clean finish.
Credit:Emily Rone
If your paint is not non-skid, apply a second coat with a non-skid grit additive for better traction.
Fresh concrete cannot be painted.
Emily Rone
