How to Finish a Concrete Driveway

Measure the driveway with a measuring tape to get the square footage and purchase the correct quantity of stain and sealant from a local home improvement store. Buy enough for a minimum of two coats of stain and three coats of sealer.

Prepare the driveway by first using a degreaser to remove any oil spots. Power-wash the driveway to remove all dirt, mildew and rust. Sweep the driveway thoroughly once it has dried. Spray an efflorescence blocker with a garden sprayer if you have a leaching of salts from water underneath the driveway. This is evidenced by a white powdery stain on the surface. Allow the driveway to dry for one hour.

Spread plastic over any sensitive plants and bushes that are close to the driveway. Spread the plastic so it lines the driveway to protect the grass from the runoff stain.

Wear protective eyewear and gloves before applying the stain to the concrete. Spray the stain using a high-pressure, low-volume sprayer. Hold the sprayer a few feet from the surface and in a steady and even movement start in the left corner and move across driveway to the right side then spray the stain back to the left side. Continue this back-and-forth movement until you reach the end of the driveway. Allow the driveway to dry for one hour before applying a second coat of stain. If a third coat is needed, repeat the process.

Block off the driveway for 24 hours to keep people or pets from walking on the surface. Apply a sealant using a paint tray and roller. Allow each coat of sealer to dry before applying a second and third coat. Allow the driveway to thoroughly dry before walking or driving on the it.