How to Make Textured Concrete Steps

Test the concrete. Place your hand or a tool on the concrete and press down. If the concrete is nearly set, you should barely make a mark. If you sink into the concrete, allow it to harden more.

Use stamps to make a faux stone or brick walkway. Brush powdered stamp-release across the steps with a soft brush. Press the stamps into the concrete, overlapping the edges. Wait until the concrete is dry before brushing off the stamp-release powder.

Use a trowel or broom to make arcs and swirls. The depth of the arcs and swirls will depend on how soft the concrete is. The softer the concrete, the deeper the marks. Brooms generally make coarser patterns than trowels.

Apply 1/8-to-3/8 inch water softener salt over wet concrete. Use a rubber roller to push the salt into the surface of the concrete. Allow the concrete to dry. Wash the steps with water. The water dissolves the salt, which will leave dimples or holes in the steps.

Hire professionals to apply stone or gravel aggregate finishes. Stone aggregate is sold in sheets. The aggregate is pushed into the concrete when the concrete is wet. It takes timing, skill and a lot of practice to do this correctly.

After the concrete has cured, apply a concrete sealer. Depending on the concrete mix, it can take 30 days to cure.