If your patio or concrete walkway looks tired, stained, or just plain boring, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders. It’s a simple weekend project that can completely change the look of your outdoor space—without spending a fortune. Whether you want a clean, classic gray or something bold like terracotta or navy, painting concrete is an easy way to upgrade your curb appeal. Here’s how to do it right.
1. Pick the Right Paint
Don’t grab just any old paint off the shelf. You’ll need concrete paint or masonry paint designed to hold up against weather, foot traffic, and moisture. These are usually labeled as porch and floor paints or concrete coatings. For extra durability, look for one that’s water- and UV-resistant.
2. Check the Weather
Timing matters. You need at least 2–3 dry days with mild temperatures—ideally between 50°F and 85°F. Avoid painting if rain is in the forecast or if it’s too hot and sunny, as this can make the paint dry too fast and lead to peeling.
3. Clean the Surface Thoroughly
Paint sticks best to a clean surface. Sweep away dirt and leaves, then scrub the concrete with a stiff brush and a mix of water and concrete cleaner (or dish soap and vinegar if you’re going natural). For stubborn stains or mildew, use a pressure washer or a diluted bleach solution. Let it dry completely—this can take a full day.
4. Repair Any Cracks
Before you paint, patch any cracks or holes with concrete filler or patching compound. Let it cure as directed on the package. Sand it smooth so everything’s even.
5. Etch the Concrete (If Needed)
If your concrete is very smooth or has never been painted before, you may need to etch it. This means applying a mild acid wash that roughs up the surface so the paint can stick. Some concrete paints skip this step—check the label to be sure. If you do etch, rinse it well and let it dry fully before moving on.
6. Apply Primer (Optional but Recommended)
Primer helps the paint stick better and last longer. Use a primer made for masonry or concrete, and roll it on evenly with a long-handled roller. Let it dry according to the instructions—usually a few hours.
7. Start Painting
Use a roller with an extension handle for the large areas, and a brush for edges and corners. Work in thin, even coats. Most concrete paints need two coats—wait the recommended time before applying the second one. Be patient. Rushing leads to chipping and peeling later.
8. Let It Cure Properly
Once your last coat is on, give the paint plenty of time to cure before walking or placing furniture on it. That usually means at least 24 hours for light foot traffic, and up to 72 hours before putting anything heavy on it.
Painting your patio or walkway doesn’t take fancy tools or contractor-level skills—just a bit of prep, the right materials, and a couple of solid afternoons. The payoff? A clean, refreshed outdoor space you’ll want to spend time in. So grab a roller, cue up your favorite playlist, and bring new life to that concrete.