How to Improve Concrete Steps

Over time, concrete can crack and become unsightly without proper care

Concrete steps tend to see a lot of wear and tear, which causes them to crack and crumble at the the edges. In addition, plain gray concrete may appear dull and dreary. The best way to improve your concrete steps is to seal them and add some simple do-it-yourself flourishes to spruce them up. With a few inexpensive materials and a little elbow grease, you can turn concrete steps into a very nice part of any building.

Things You'll Need

• Concrete penetrating sealer with siloxane
• Pressure washer
• Nylon broom or brush
• Paint roller with paint pan
• Paint brush
• Epoxy paint (color of choice)

Instructions

1. Clean the steps thoroughly. Use a nylon broom or brush to wipe the surface clean of any dirt, then use the pressure washer to take off any tough stains.

2. Allow steps to dry for 24 hours. Pour some concrete sealer into a paint pan and use a roller to apply it to the steps one at a time. Apply enough to coat the step fully but do not allow it to pool.

3. Let dry a minimum of four hours before walking on the steps. But because different brands may have different recommendations, it is best to read the instructions regarding the exact drying time.

4. Paint the handrail on your steps if there is one. This will add a fresh look to your newly sealed steps.

5. Paint your steps with an epoxy paint once the sealer has been on for 24 hours. You will need two or three coats. Painting the steps after a sealer has been applied can give them new life and the paint will last much longer than it would have on unsealed concrete.

6. Allow the paint to dry. Apply a coat of sealer to lock in the color.

Tips & Warnings

• You can rent a pressure washer and other tools from home improvement stores.

References

• Concrete Ideas: How to Seal Your Concrete Driveway
• Home Improvement: How to Paint Concrete
• All Things Concrete: Epoxy Concrete Floor Paint