- 1). Rent a power washer and a concrete grinder from the rental center. Explain to the clerk that you are renovating a concrete porch; he can show you how to use the equipment. Also buy heavy gloves, a dust mask and goggles.
- 2). Clean the porch thoroughly. Sweep to remove all loose bits of concrete, paint and dirt. After sweeping, power wash the porch. Allow the concrete to dry completely.
- 3). Don your safety gear and oldest, heaviest jeans and long sleeved sweatshirt. Practice on an inconspicuous spot before grinding the concrete. After grinding the entire porch, sweep it thoroughly to remove all grit and dust. Mop with water. Allow to dry.
- 4). Tape the edges of the porch with painter's tape, protecting the house and any other painted surfaces. Mix one package of self-leveling concrete in a bucket according to the package directions. Dampen the surface of the porch with water. Apply the self leveling concrete in small amounts, spreading with a squeegee and working quickly to smooth it before it dries. To cover vertical surfaces, allow the concrete to drip over the edges and smooth with the squeegee. Allow to dry completely.
- 5). Apply 1/4-inch wide tape in your choice of patterns. For example, a "tile" or "brick" pattern of squares or rectangles is a simple and attractive design. Or if you prefer, tape out a more complex design like flagstones, a decorative medallion or a sunburst in front of the door. Include the sides and risers of steps in your design. Allow the ends of the tape to extend four inches past the edge of the porch so they are easier to grasp and remove.
- 6). Mix a second coat of the overlay, using a little less water if you prefer a textured surface. Wet the porch surface as before, then quickly trowel the concrete on to produce a thin textured surface. Use the squeegee for a smooth finish. Work quickly. As soon as you can walk on the concrete, pull the tape up to reveal your design. Allow the concrete to dry completely.
- 7). Mix and apply acrylic stains with a foam brush. Paint your design, allowing the stain to puddle in the texture or pulling it back up with a sponge to lighten the colors. Work from the inside out, allowing the stain to dry completely. Add more stain with the brush or a sponge if necessary.
- 8). Roll two thin coats of concrete sealer over the entire porch. If you need extra slip resistance, sprinkle sand lightly over the first coat of sealer while it is still wet. When the first coat is dry, roll a second coat of sealer over the entire porch. To maintain the design, reseal every two or three years.
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