How to Color Pavers

Concrete dyes allow you to expand the colors found in paver stones.

Whether they are used to line a patio, a pool deck or a pathway through a garden, pavers enhance your yard’s aesthetic appeal. To revitalize existing pavers, add color to them. Pavers are made of a naturally porous material that absorbs color well. Using a spray concrete dye, color your pavers yourself to add pizzazz to your existing landscaping. Choose natural stone colors for a subtle look or bold colors for more vibrancy.

Things You'll Need

• Power washer
• Stone cleaner
• Acetone
• Paint Sprayer
• Concrete sealant

Instructions

1. Clean the pavers using a power washer and stone cleaner to remove surface dirt and oils. Follow the cleaner’s directions for proper application. Rinse the pavers thoroughly to remove any cleaner. Leave the pavers to dry for three to five hours, or until completely dry.

2. Mix the concrete dye with acetone according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Prepare enough dye to cover the number of pavers you have. Place the dye and acetone into a paint sprayer. Shake the mixture for 30 seconds. Set the mixture aside for three hours.

3. Shake the sprayer for 10 more seconds. Hold the nozzle of the sprayer 2 feet from the surface of the pavers. Move the sprayer in a circular motion to cover each of the pavers. Continue to spray the pavers until the desired color is reached.

4. Let the pavers dry for five minutes. Dye sets almost instantly. However, the extra five minutes allows the dye to finish setting. Clean the surface of the pavers using more stone cleaner and the power washer. Let the pavers dry overnight.

5. Seal the pavers using concrete sealer. Follow the package directions for proper application and drying times.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not have a power washer, use a garden hose.

• Line the area around the pavers with plastic trash bags or tarps. This prevents you from coloring plants or other stones.

• If you have puddles of dye when coloring the pavers, dab the surface with a clean cloth to soak up the excess dye.

• Always test the dye before application by spraying it on a test paver.

References

• Direct Colors Inc.: DCI Concrete Dye
• Concrete Network.com: Concrete Dye Application Techniques
• Concrete Network.com: Concrete Dyes Expand the Color Pallet of Concrete Stains
• Surface Koatings, Inc.: Exterior Kolour Dye