How to Fix Up a Front Patio

An ugly, damaged or outdated front patio creates a negative first impression for anyone approaching your home. Fixing up the patio refreshes your home's look and boosts its curb appeal. Structural issues with the current patio need to be addressed before you are able to beautify the outdoor living space. Functional and stylish design elements, like a lattice fence for privacy and a seating area to greet guests, create an inviting and updated patio space.

Pavers
Power washer
Dishwashing detergent
Stiff brush
Paver sealer
Concrete stain
Lattice
Plants

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all items from the patio, including furniture and plants. If you have plants growing around the patio, assess whether or not they fit your home's style. Tear out any plants that are scraggly or don't fit into the landscaping.
- 2
  Inspect the patio top and edges to look for damage. Replace pavers that are cracked or broken. For a cement patio, patch any cracks in the cement.
- 3
  Power wash the patio to remove built-up grime and stains. Use dishwashing detergent with a stiff brush to remove stains or clean the pavers.
- 4
  Seal the pavers with a special sealer made for the material your patio is made from. Block off the patio so no one walks on it while the sealer is drying.
- 5
  Stain the surface if the patio is made from concrete. Use one color of concrete stain on the entire patio, or use different colors to create a pattern on the surface.
- 6
  Add structures to create privacy on the patio. Ideas include a pergola above the patio or a lattice along the sides.
- 7
  Plant new landscaping along the edges of the patio. An alternative is to use flower pots for the plants.

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Decks & Patios