- Before making any changes to the concrete's surface, prepare the concrete to accept the stain or paint. Clean the surface of the concrete completely. Use a degreasing solution to remove stubborn stains on the surface, such as a mixture of grease-cutting dish detergent and water.
Remove as much of the oil as possible using the cleansers and then go over the surface with a power washer. The power washer is an adjustable hose that can stream a concentrated spray of water at the surface of your concrete, cutting through the dirt and most stains. After washing the surface, allow it to dry and then sweep away any remaining debris that hasn't washed away. Remove as much of the stains as possible, as any left on the concrete when you apply the concrete stain or the paint will bleed through, marring the look of the application.
Spread plastic sheeting along the edge of the concrete, covering lawns or sidewalks to limit the spread of your paint or stain as well as protect the grass from runoff. Wear a respirator when doing the actual coloring of the concrete. - Put on protective clothing that covers your body as completely as possible Long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, work boots, goggles, respirator and a hat are sufficient protection.
Use either an acid-based or acrylic-based stain for the surface of your concrete: the acid-based when you want deep rich colors; the acrylic-based for a look that's a little opaque.
The best time to apply the stain is when the temperature is mild, when the concrete surface is between 45 and 95 degrees F. for the application. Apply the stain beginning at the corner of the surface, spraying the stain evenly across the concrete. Apply several layers, with each layer adding richness and variety to the stain, but allow each layer time to dry between coats, depending on the manufacturer's instructions.
Give the last layer of stain 24 hours to dry and then put a layer of sealant on to protect the stain from damage. Use a non-stick sealant, or add a non-stick agent to the sealant when mixing it to prevent falls. Apply the sealant to the surface of the concrete with a low nap roller. - Choose the appropriate paint for your concrete according to the location of the slab, exterior paint for exterior concrete, interior for interior slabs. Paint on a layer of primer that's compatible with the sealant you used onto the concrete surface. Once the primer has dried, apply the first layer of paint.
Apply the coat of paint to your concrete in several thin layers, building up your coat bit by bit until you have a solid color where the slab does not bleed though. Add a non-stick additive to the paint to give the surface texture for slip prevention. Once the paint has been applied, allow it to cure according to the paint manufacturer's suggestions.
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