You need Give your worn-out patio a makeover? Resurfacing is a popular option for concrete patios, but it’s not the cheapest option. On average, it will cost about $2,000 to have your patio professionally restored. Handling the job yourself can cost a lot less — a typical 40-pound bag of concrete resurfacer covers about 16 square feet and runs about $36 — but it’s very labor-intensive, and mistakes may require a professional anyway. Luckily, there’s a cheaper and more stylish way to refresh your old patio. By using a pretty stencil and some paint, you can transform your existing concrete from plain to spectacular, for less than it would cost you to resurface it.
Using a stencil to paint a design on your patio can add more visual interest without spending a ton of extra money and effort. You can stencil or paint over any mistakes, so you can create bolder choices and more complex patterns. Afterwards, you’ll end up with an even more unique and gorgeous patio to enjoy!
Stenciling your patio can also be more affordable since you may already have some materials on hand. You can make stencils from plastic folders, which you can get online or at any office supply retailer for just a few dollars. If you have a stencil you can use other materials, as long as they are thin enough to cut but strong enough to hold under the paint. You may need to grab some of them The best paint for concretesuch as acrylic latex paint or masonry paint, as well as primer and outdoor sealant to protect it.
How to refresh your patio with stencils and paint
First, it’s important to plan your design. Measure your patio and divide it into sections to determine how big each stencil should be. Make a scale drawing on paper or use chalk to test the design. If it doesn’t fit the way you want, consider adding a border to clean up the edges or switch to a more abstract design. Carefully trace your design onto the plastic, and cut it out to make a stencil. If you’re planning a repeat pattern, you may only need one stencil, but it’s nice to have extras in case you make a mistake. You can also buy pre-made stencils online, although this will add to the budget and make the end result less personal.
Next, clean your patio to allow your paint to adhere properly. To make the design really pop, coat your patio in a layer of primer, followed by a solid coat of paint in a different color to your design. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can even skip this step.
Afterwards, tape your stencil in place or hold it down to hold it in place for the cleanest design, then paint over it. You can use a paint roller for smooth application, or add texture by spraying it or applying it with a sponge or texture brush. Let it dry, then finish it with an outdoor sealant for a Waterproof concrete patio which can withstand weather and foot traffic. As with any exterior surface, it can fade or crack over time, and you may need to touch up some lines and reseal it every few years.
