I have a poured concrete patio and would like to sponge paint it in a natural stone-like pattern. I am not so much interested in creating the look of stones separated by grout but would rather make it look as if it were one large piece of stone. I would like to know how to prepare the cement and what kind of paint to use. Can exterior cement paint be tinted? There are a few spots of grease spattered on it from the barbecue grill. Should I treat this stain with anything before proceeding? .
Answer:
To paint concrete, no matter where it is, you go through a four-step method. You have to cure it, etch it, prime it and then paint it. The first two steps are done with solutions you buy at your local masonry supply outlet and then you can normally prime by cutting your finish paint at least 30% with the recommended thinner. The grease spots, if they're large, may not paint well because you have to neutralize them before anything else. Try treating them with WD40 before doing anything else.
