Decorative Techniques for Concrete Patios and Walkways

Surfaces are first repaired and prepped. An overlay, or layer of concrete, is then applied thinly or thickly, depending on the look you are after. In professional installations, such as those used by Westcoat, the look is achieved using an epoxy primer, stamp and a stain or color wash. In addition, it is possible to add a layer of slip resistance to make areas around pools safer. A sealer is then applied to lock in the look. Design Ideas One of the biggest reasons why homeowners opt to makeover their concrete Concrete can also be stained and textured to create an anti-slip surface around pools. Photo courtesy of Life Deck Specialty Coatings in San Diego. patios and walkways is the broad design options available. Any style home, from traditional to modern, can be accentuated with the right color or textured concrete surface. A Tudor style home, for example, might look elegant with a design that mimics Old World materials, such as cobblestone or aged brick. A Mediterranean style home would look great with concrete stamped to mimic flagstone, slate or Spanish tile. Smooth stained concrete and a decorative edge detail can also give a colonial home wonderful appeal. ConcreteNetwork.com has a fabulous online gallery that showcases concrete design ideas based on architectural style. Color can also play a big role in boosting concrete’s allure. Many homeowners will opt for a natural look—such as brown, gray or beige—that will complement their home’s exterior. New technologies and application techniques, however, make it possible to stain or color concrete to any imaginable hue. And, with most color options, the hue you choose can have multiple effects. One solid hue can help make a backyard patio look larger. Choosing a color that’s similar to the hue on your interior floors can visually connect the outdoor and indoor spaces. If you’re looking for inspiration, Concretenetwork.com has an extensive gallery of photographs that will inspire design ideas and motivate change. Hiring a Professional While concrete stains, paints and some textures can be a do-it-yourself job, Koury says, the finishes homeowners purchase at a local home improvement store and apply themselves won’t last as long as a professional application. “Homeowners usually won’t take the time or know-how to properly prepare the surface, and the color will begin to flake off after a short period of time,” he said. “They won’t have saved any money, and that’s why these jobs should probably be left to the pros.” An experienced contractor will have at least 10 years of experience, so shop around and ask for references before hiring a professional. While DIY jobs can cost just a few hundred dollars, professional concrete treatments can cost several thousand dollars, depending on the size of your patio or walkway. Also, factor maintenance into the overall cost of the project. “When you raise the standard on your outdoor flooring, plan on having maintenance on it every three to five years,” Koury said. “The sun, traffic and weather will eat up the overlays, but with the right sealers and maintenance, you can get 10 to 20 years out of the project.” No matter which colors, patterns and textures you select, a concrete makeover is sure to boost the curb appeal and beauty of your home.

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