The Dos and Don’ts of Painting Concrete Steps in Sacramento CA
When painting concrete steps, it is essential to use proper prep measures. First, do not use regular paint for the efforts. Concrete is porous and requires a primer to seal the surface before applying paint. Secondly, use synthetic rollers with at least a 1-inch nap. The longer the fibers, the better, as they hold paint and primer. When painting concrete steps, leave at least 24 hours for the steps to dry before stepping onto them.
Using the right paint for concrete steps will depend on its wear. High-quality masonry paint can last more than five years. Alternatively, acrylic latex masonry paint will cover about 400 square feet and resist staining better than regular paint. Lastly, the color should be durable, as concrete sucks up the stain more than a typical house’s exterior.
To prepare for painting concrete steps, the steps should be thoroughly cleaned. Throughout the years, dirt and grime accumulate on the surface. To remove this dirt, homeowners can use soap and water to scrub the steps thoroughly. Some homeowners opt to use a TSP concrete cleaner to clean tougher stains. Make sure you follow the instructions on the bottle carefully and wear gloves. The last thing you want to do is damage your steps by using too much power.
If you’re using paint that won’t scuff up your concrete, you’ll want to ensure the surface is clean and pristine. Use a scraper or wire brush to scrub off dirt and plant life. Make sure the concrete is clean and dry. It should also be at least 48 hours old. Otherwise, it will absorb the paint and make it difficult to remove it.
Before you can begin painting your concrete steps, cleaning the surface thoroughly and ensuring that the finish is smooth and free of debris is crucial. For this, you should use concrete cleaner and sealer formulated specifically for painting concrete. Afterward, you can use a power washer or a concrete cleaner to remove any excess dirt and debris. Ensure you wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles to protect your skin and eyes from solid chemicals.
Before you paint, you must prepare the surface with primer. It makes the paint adhere to the surface and fills any cracks and blemishes. Without the primer, the color won’t look as good as it should and won’t last as long. So, make sure you use the proper primer for the job. And remember, don’t forget to sand the surface smooth before you start applying the paint.
