If you have a concrete patio, you might want to change the color. Concrete has an off-white appearance that is great for a driveway, but not so fun for your backyard. Here are some do's and don'ts to help you paint it a different color.

Do: Apply a sealant to the concrete

One of the most important aspects of painting concrete is applying the sealant. Your concrete needs to be sealed before and after painting. Before painting, it helps to seal any remaining damage or cracks on the concrete surface. It is also added as an additional layer after painting to protect the surface from stains and further damage. This simply provides an extra layer of protection on your concrete. Sealer is usually applied with a roller since it can cover a large area in minimal time.

Do: Follow the right painting method

When it comes to painting the concrete, make sure you use the right method. You should work from left to right instead of top to bottom. This helps prevent you from accidentally stepping in the paint as you work, and provides cleaner lines. If you go top to bottom there is a greater risk of seeing visible lines or uneven painted surfaces. If you are going to add more than one coat, wait for the first coat to dry completely before adding the next.

Don't: Paint the concrete without repairing it and cleaning it

If your concrete floor isn't completely clean and free of damage, your painting and sealing won't be very effective. You should start this project by cleaning the concrete thoroughly, preferably with a power washer. Once it is dry, check the surface for cracks or holes. Clean out these cracks and remove any weeds you find inside. Fill the cracks with sand, followed by a patching material that can be used on concrete. You must wait for it to dry before painting. For professional help with filling cracks, contact a company like Larry's Asphalt Paving Co Ltd.

Don't: Forget to prime before painting

Another thing to keep in mind is that the concrete needs to be primed before applying paint. The primer will provide a smooth surface that allows you to paint over it more easily. Just one coat of primer should be enough for the concrete. However, if the concrete had paint on it before, you might need multiple coats of colored primer in order to achieve the new color you are aiming for. Wait for it to dry completely before painting the concrete.