A concrete patio is one of the most versatile features in a Raleigh home. It’s durable, functional, and low maintenance, perfect for everything from cookouts and outdoor gatherings to quiet mornings with coffee. But over time, even the toughest concrete can start to look weathered, stained, or faded. If your outdoor space is looking like it’s time for a refresh, you may be wondering what the best option is. Can you paint a concrete patio? If so, how should you go about it? The short answer is… yes, you can! But keep in mind, using high-quality concrete patio paint is the key to refreshing and protecting your outdoor space for years to come.
Like most painting projects, there’s more to it than grabbing a roller and a can of paint and diving in. It requires proper prep, products, and techniques to achieve a long-lasting finish. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through what concrete patio paint is, when it makes sense to use it, and what to expect when you hire a professional Raleigh house painter like Oak City Coatings.
In This Post
Can You Paint a Concrete Patio?
Whether or not you can paint concrete is a question that often comes up with homeowners. Yes, concrete absolutely can be painted, but proper prep makes all the difference.
Concrete isn’t like a drywall or wood surface. It’s porous, meaning it absorbs moisture, expands and contracts with temperature changes, and can develop hairline cracks over time. If you skip the right prep work, the paint won’t adhere properly, and you’ll be repainting within a season. Similarly, if you use the wrong product, you’ll likely end up with peeling paint after one rainy Raleigh summer.
So how can you set yourself up for success and avoid repainting?
Follow these professional concrete patio paint prep steps:
- Clean thoroughly: Remove dirt, grease, and mildew with a pressure washer.
- Repair cracks and pits: Fill and smooth out imperfections to create an even surface.
- Etch if needed: Helps the coating bond securely to the concrete.
- Ensure the surface is dry: Moisture under the paint can cause bubbling and flaking.
These are the exact steps that we follow before applying a concrete patio coating for our customers. When done right, painting a concrete patio can not only transform your space and achieve the style you’re looking for, but it can also protect your concrete from the elements.
What Is Concrete Patio Paint (and How Is It Different)?
Concrete patio paint is specially formulated for exterior masonry surfaces. It’s thicker and more durable than standard wall paint.
It’s designed to withstand:
- Heavy foot traffic
- UV exposure
- Moisture and humidity
- Temperature swings (which we know well here in North Carolina)
When choosing concrete patio paint, there are two main options to consider.
Concrete Paint
Concrete paint is thinner, easier to apply, and offers solid coverage. It’s great for hiding stains or discoloration, but may need occasional touch-ups more frequently over time.
Concrete Stain
Concrete stain penetrates deeper for a more natural, longer-lasting finish. However, it offers less coverage for stains or imperfections.
At Oak City Coatings, we help our clients choose the best concrete patio coating based on their space, budget, and goals, whether that’s low maintenance, long-term durability, or a specific color or finish.
Benefits of Using Concrete Patio Paint
If you’re debating whether to paint or fully replace your patio, paint is often the simpler, more affordable upgrade.
Here’s a few reasons why Raleigh homeowners love it:
Boosts Curb Appeal
A fresh, clean finish of concrete patio paint instantly upgrades your backyard or patio. It can breathe new life into an outdated or imperfect space, boosting curb appeal.
Adds Protection
Concrete patio paint seals the surface, acting as a barrier against water, oil stains, and UV damage, helping your concrete last longer. This is super important for our sunny, humid, and rainy climate here in Raleigh.
Makes Maintenance Easier
Sealed surfaces are much easier to sweep, rinse off, and keep clean throughout the year. With the amount of pollen and debris that washes up in the North Carolina weather, this is a must!
Offers Endless Customization
You can choose from a wide range of colors, sheens, and finishes (including slip-resistant textures) to match your outdoor style.
Whether you’re updating your space for entertaining or relaxing, or adding value to your home before selling, concrete paint for patios is a smart investment that goes a long way.
Why Hire a Professional Instead of DIY Your Concrete Patio Paint?
Painting a concrete patio might seem like a simple weekend DIY project, but it requires skill, knowledge, and the right tools and products to achieve long-lasting results and even coverage.
If you hire Oak City Coatings for your project, we will:
- Evaluate your surface for cracks, moisture, and structural integrity.
- Use professional-grade cleaners, primers, and coatings.
- Use specialized equipment like pressure washers or concrete grinders as needed.
- Apply the right number of coats for durability.
- Ensure proper sealing and curing time so the finish holds up to North Carolina’s heat and humidity.
Skipping any of these steps can lead to peeling, bubbling, or fading within a few short months. Then, you’ll be back at square one, costing you time and money.
With Oak City Coatings, you can feel confident knowing you get expert prep, premium products, professional techniques, and a team that cares. We ensure every patio project is done right the first time, so you get lasting results that are worth every penny.
Ready to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space?
If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your concrete patio, let Oak City Coatings help you transform your space without the overwhelm. Share your vision and goals with us and we’ll take it from there.
Based in the heart of Raleigh, Oak City Coatings proudly serves homeowners in Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, and the greater Triangle area. Whether you’re updating a residential patio, refreshing a commercial courtyard, or improving a community space, our team brings expert-level prep, paint, and protection.
Visit our contact page today for a free estimate and let Oak City Coatings bring your outdoor space back to life!
