How do you put cool finishes on your concrete?

Mdg27448427
by Mdg27448427
I have seen a lot of contractors at home and garden shows that put different marbled or other decorative finishes on their walks and driveways. It can't be that hard to DYI can it?

  5 answers
  • Pouring concrete is a skill and an art if done correctly. It is more difficult than it looks. And . . . You can always learn! I would experiment by making concrete stepping stones to get your technique down pat before pouring a large expanse of it and then stand there thinking what do I do now?


    Concrete can be a challenge. If you live in hot and dry climates you should work early in the morning, like when the sun comes up. Then wet it down several times a day so that it "cures" evenly over the next 30 or so days.


    Research how concrete is typically poured in your area and what mix they use, including any additives. Heed their suggestions and create something really interesting!

  • Brenda Brandt Deason Brenda Brandt Deason on Jul 26, 2017

    I have concrete floors in my house. I just refinished a hall floor with a textured epoxy. It was actually pretty easy. I just poured it on the floor and rolled it out with an adhesive roller. No drips on a flat surface! Since my floor was red and I was going for aqua, I used three coats and the red still shows through, but I think it would be perfect over gray concrete. Not having to worry about drips and just pour and spread made it really easy. You can do it!

  • Shirley Gilleland Shirley Gilleland on Jul 26, 2017

    You can also paint with concrete paint, with or without stencils. Patterns can be made with tape strips, just like on the walls. Imagine and create! I hope this helps for a cheap, quick fix.

  • Colleen Colleen on Jul 26, 2017

    I like your idea

  • Cindy Cindy on Jul 26, 2017

    Hello Mdgriff80, Concrete can be painted or stained but choosing the right paint/stain is key to success. I want to paint my front walk and porch to look like tiles. I know that I can tape off sections the size of tile but I would like to try stencils instead. I recommend talking to a pro for advice before making any decisions. Good luck.