Make Your Dull Stained Concrete Patio Shine Again

Beverly D. wanted to refinish the steps around her house because the concrete looked dull and unattractive.

Originally, their outdoor decorative concrete was integrally-colored with concrete pigment, then stamped and sealed but the color had faded over time in the hot Texas sun.

After testing a few sample colors, Beverly selected EasyTint colored concrete sealer in Aztec Brown. She opted to include a non slip concrete sealer additive in the final coat of clear sealer to minimize slip hazards on the steps and around the pool.

When adding translucent color to previously stained or pigmented concrete, the final color will be a combination of the existing and new colors. Testing is crucial for selecting the right color and sealer type. Direct Colors offers sample kits of every stain we sell.

Beverly said, “…refinishing outdoor concrete isn’t easy, but it was well worth the work. I must say that when it came to applying the clear coat sealer with the anti-slip grit was a breeze! We have saved at least $3,200 and that was just for the pool area.”

1. Determine if the concrete was sealed with a solvent based sealer.

   Pour a small amount of Xylene on the sealer and wait 30 seconds. Pat dry and touch the area. If the surface becomes tacky or sticky, then the concrete was sealed with a solvent-based sealer and is a good candidate for EasyTint™.

2. Apply colored concrete sealer.

   Pour EasyTint™ directly into a pump sprayer and apply using random, straight, or circular motion until a “wet” appearance is achieved.

3. Allow drying.

   Allow 4 – 6 hours to dry before applying additional coats.

4. Apply a second coat.

   Use the same technique as Step 2. Allow drying for 8 hours.

5. Apply top clear coat.

   For high-traffic and very sunny areas, we recommend a 25% or higher solid content solvent based sealer.

Learn how Stephanie gave her walkway a complete makeover with EasyTint, or check out our concrete walkway ideas.

Check out our concrete driveway stain idea gallery for concrete pavers inspiration and more!