Painting your driveway can improve the aesthetics of your home, especially if you want to cover any imperfections; it can prolong the life of your driveway by adding a strong layer of protection against the elements; and it can even raise the value of your property. You don’t want to paint an asphalt driveway because asphalt is oil-based so it can cause issues with paint, but a concrete driveway is the perfect blank canvas for your driveway painting endeavor.
The first thing you want to do when planning to paint a concrete driveway is to check the weather. Figure you need at least four rain-free days to complete your task. Next, you need to clean and fill your concrete so that the end result will be a smooth, beautiful finish. You can use a leaf blower, followed by pressure washing and then degreaser if you have any oil stains on your concrete. If you have any cracks to fill, clean them out first with a wire brush and remove any loose pieces of concrete.
The next step is priming your driveway. Then apply masonry paint because it will expand and contract with your concrete, unlike regular paint. Tape and brush the edges. Then you can use a heavy duty roller with a long handle or a sprayer for the rest. Remember that concrete is porous, so it will soak up your paint. Two coats of paint will most likely be adequate for smoother concrete driveways, but you will need three coats if your concrete driveway has a rough finish.
You can walk on your newly painted concrete driveway after 24 hours of dry time, but give it a week before driving on it.
