How to Decorate & Treat Concrete

Concrete Decorating: Tinting

• 1

  Select a color of tint for the concrete. Tints are available commercially where concrete products are sold and through concrete contractors.

• 2

  Mix tint into concrete. Follow the manufacturer's recommended mixture for water to concrete mix. During this process, slowly add in the powdered tint. Mix until all the concrete is tinted or create a swirl by only mixing partially.

• 3

  Pour concrete as usual. The tint will be lighter as the concrete dries.

Concrete Decorating; Stamping

• 4

  Mix and pour concrete into the desired area. Follow the manufacturer's instruction on mix to water proportions for the concrete.

• 5

  Smooth the concrete with a trowel. Remove as many lines and wrinkles as possible.

• 6

  Stamp the concrete. Concrete stamps are available to add shapes and designs to the concrete. Push the stamp into the drying concrete and remove in a straight up motion to prevent messing up the design.

• 7

  Allow the concrete to dry at least 24 hours before using.

Treating Concrete

• 8

  Clean the cured concrete prior to treating. Sweep away all dirt and debris. Treat any heavy dirt or oil spots with dish detergent. Rinse and dry the concrete.

• 9

  Spread sealer onto the concrete. Sealer is available commercially. Spread the sealer onto the concrete evenly using a push broom.

• 10

  Allow the sealer to dry for 24 hours before using the area.