How to give old concrete patio an inexpensive, long-lasting facelift?

Susan K Mullins
by Susan K Mullins
The concrete on my patio is awful. It is the focal point of my backyard. Pressure washing doesn't last long. It is uncovered, so it gets all of the yearly weather. What can I do to give it a facelift that will last and is inexpensive?

  17 answers
  • Donald mcclane Donald mcclane on Jun 01, 2017

    Flagstone! I think it would bring out a cool natural look and it's easy to deal with. Seal it with a good silicone product, to keep out moisture. You will love it. Google "Flagstone" you can find a source in your area. Good luck Susan.

  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Jun 01, 2017

    Paint it with a specialized concrete paint for outdoors.once done add some extra interest with a colorful outdoor carpet,and accessorize with plants,garden statues,solar lights,wind chimes etc.

    • Susan K Mullins Susan K Mullins on Jun 02, 2017

      I considered paint or stain, just not sure how long it would last since the patio is in the sun constantly. Have you used either the paint or stain? If so, how did it work for you? Thank you for your help.

  • Elizabeth Dion Elizabeth Dion on Jun 01, 2017

    Have you considered using a concrete paint to give it a facelift? There are also interlocking rubber tiles that you can put down. Tile? Just a few thoughts...

    • Susan K Mullins Susan K Mullins on Jun 02, 2017

      I have considered the stain, just now sure if it would fade quickly. Have you ever used the stain? If so, how long did it last? I never thought about rubber tiles. I will check on those. Thank you 😊

  • Pgbd39 Pgbd39 on Jun 01, 2017

    Ours looked as bad around our pool. We used a product called "Granite Grip". Turned out beautiful! We were amazed at the results!

  • Ginny Ginny on Jun 01, 2017

    A non-slippery paint and an area rug are a great idea. The rest of the outdoor looks pretty and inviting. Add a few accessories and pillows that pick up the color of the rug or the paint you use. Plow and Hearth have some nice outdoor, washable pillows at reasonable prices that would add color.

  • Linda Chappuis Linda Chappuis on Jun 02, 2017

    Do the tile look where they use stain . I've seen this and it's beautiful.

  • Patty Quirk Patty Quirk on Jun 02, 2017

    Use "Wet it and Forget" . Pour on to patio and it will lighten the concrete. All big box home stores carry it. Works great!

  • Des23222775 Des23222775 on Jun 02, 2017

    How about stamped concrete ? We have been pondering the idea or redoing my sister's patio without going into the Cambridge paving addiction so we too are looking for a fab idea... I will look into the flagstone, granite grip and "wet it and forget" !

  • Susan K Mullins Susan K Mullins on Jun 02, 2017

    Great! Was it hard to apply? Was it expensive? How long have you had the grantic grip on your concrete? I am going to look it up. Thank you!

  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Jun 02, 2017

    No I have never done that as I have decks.Just remember nothing will last forever. Go to a reputable local paint store so they can guide you for the proper cement paint and possible sealer.

  • Susan K Mullins Susan K Mullins on Jun 02, 2017

    Thank you! We spend a lot of time outdoors. I will definitely check on pillows from Plow & Hearth. The concrete just drives me nuts, it looks so bad. I have received several suggestions. I so appreciate all help.

  • Susan K Mullins Susan K Mullins on Jun 02, 2017

    Do you know if you use a stencil for the tile lines?

  • Susan K Mullins Susan K Mullins on Jun 02, 2017

    Great! Does it have color in it?

  • Susan K Mullins Susan K Mullins on Jun 02, 2017

    Me too! Let me know what you decide on. 😊

  • Susan K Mullins Susan K Mullins on Jun 02, 2017

    Thanks! after searching for ideas, I think I am going to go with various colors of stain and draw rocks, then paint in a grout. I will post pics when I finish.

  • Elizabeth Dion Elizabeth Dion on Jun 02, 2017

    I have used stain...if your patio is in a high sun area you can expect to have to repaint/restain every 2-3 years.

  • Susan K Mullins Susan K Mullins on Jun 04, 2017

    Thank you!