From Boring Concrete Wall to Pretty Painted Patio

Patios are often forgotten pieces of real estate in our homes. Since the weather is turning nicer and we’re all headed outdoors, take on a painting project to create a summer garden for lounging the days away. Here’s how to go from a boring concrete wall to a pretty painted patio in just a few steps.

Oftentimes we have retaining walls, exteriors of our homes, or other reasons to include concrete blocks in our backyards. Whether the reason is privacy or utility, they are often left in their natural state – unsightly unfinished blocks of gray bringing down our style. That doesn’t have to be! Hide that eyesore with some beautiful paint.

Tackling a project like this isn’t super fun or easy, but it can be done with a bit of know-how and elbow grease. There are no technically difficult steps to trip you up, just dealing with nature and the slow process of updating concrete blocks.

Colors and Tools

For the novice painter, going with a color similar to the current concrete can make the painting job easier. Missing spots won’t be as obvious and you’ll have a simple time covering the gray. Any holidays will not be readily obvious and painting over the texture won’t leave missing areas. In addition, remember that the colors you choose will always look a bit lighter in exterior, natural light sources. Planning for this color shift can set you up for proper expectations.

But changing base gray concrete blocks to a gray painted block may not accomplish what you are looking for. If this is the case, go wild with color. Remember to purchase exterior masonry paint for the best outcome. You’ll also need a long napped roller and stiff-bristled, angled brush in a small size. These tools will allow you to get into the nooks and crannies that concrete is known for. Changing the color is much simpler if you have the tools to get in every crevice.

Tips and Tricks

Cleaning

Be sure to clean the bricks before you move forward. Use a broom, followed by a pressure washer to remove rogue dust and dirt from the area. The more clean the blocks, the easier the painting process will be.

Clear the base of the wall of any rocks or debris before you start painting. It’s important to aim for a clean edge when you are done painting, without painting the rocks at the bottom.

Weather

Work in the shade if possible. This is a long process, requiring several coatings of paint. This means a long day in the sun and somewhat tedious work. If you can, check the weather for less humid and overcast conditions. Do not work on days that are expected to be rainy or dreary. The paint needs many hours of rain-free time to dry between coatings and when you’re done.

Painting

This project works best if you paint around the edges of the concrete blocks with your brush first. Afterward, use the roller to paint giant swaths of paint. This allows you to move quickly from area to area while protecting the edges from splatter and paint where it doesn’t belong.

Allow time to go back in the sunlight and inspect your work. There will be missing patches, so expect it on the first go-round. Attempt to cover all of them with the second coating so that the third can just be a precautionary step.

What’s next?

Now that your concrete blocks aren’t an afterthought, add some plants or greenery around them and create a focal point in the backyard.

If you need your backyard renovated with paint and repairs? Call us! We’re here to help! Schedule a free, no-obligation estimate appointment with our crew today.

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