TradePoint: How to paint a patio

With spring in full bloom, it’s the perfect time for landlords to enhance the outdoor areas of their rental properties. A fresh coat of paint on the patio can boost kerb appeal and increase the property's value.

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Getting started

Prepare the patio surface by sweeping away any leaves or debris, and pull away any weeds with your handy weeding wire broom.

Give the patio a clean and remember to check the label and follow the instructions on the cleaning fluid. Once you have given the surface a clean, you can allow yourself a break as the cleaner works its magic and breaks down algae and embedded dirt.

Now it is time to get the pressure washer out to finally remove all the old grime. Once that’s done, you are ready to prime the surface.

Priming

Not all paint requires priming so check the label on your paint to make sure it does or doesn’t need priming before starting painting.

Once the patio is completely dry, make sure you use a deep-pile roller, which will make it easier on uneven surfaces. If you are someone who has issues with their back, using a long-handled roller could give you some protection. Make sure to add one, smooth consistent layer.

Painting

Make sure the surface is fully dry before you begin the painting.

You can use any design you want, from stripes to stencil patterns. You can always check your local store for a mixing service to get the right colour for your patio. Specialist floor paint is a great choice for high traffic areas.

Use a paint brush to get into those tricky corners and also for those edges where you need to be precise. Use the deep pile roller and start from a corner, working to the opposite corner. Then leave it to dry for four hours, or maybe more if the weather is a little cold. Then you can add the second coat.

Design

If you are using a stencil, think about your secondary colour. Start on the middle paving stone and secure it with good quality painter’s tape. Use a small roller and take extra care to make sure there is no excess paint on it.

Make sure your next square is a distance away from the last – one square at least – to minimise any chance of smudging.

Final Touches

Now the paint is dry, apply sealant in the same way you did with the paint. It best to apply two coats, so leave two to three hours between coats.

If you want to go an extra step, why not fit a gravel border and if there are any gaps between your paving stones, you can always fill them with sand.

Check out the video below for the visual guide.