What should I do about a concrete slab on my property?

Question

Hello All,
I have a concrete slab that is roughly 5 feet by 8 feet. I would like to use this area as an above ground fire pit / sitting area. The concrete does not match the Earthy tones outside so I thougth I could paint the concrete an Earth tone or stain it. Do you know how one would go about doing this? I would also like to place pavers around this area aswell. If you know of some great links, or have some awesome ideas, please let me know. Thank You!

Answer 1

I would first of all clean it . I myself would prefer to stain because you can achieve a more natural stone look by using a combination if colors. You can take masking tape to make a flagstone design and after you have achieve the desired color and look remove the tape and it looks like grout lines, in a beautiful flagstone patio.

Answer 2

Wash or power was the slab. The acid etch the slab with muratic acid. Rinse well and let dry. Then get a good quality floor paint, an epoxy will last a long time but is a little more involved, while other "floor paints" are easier with slightly less lasting. I am a paintwer and this works well. Sometimes people will sledge hammer a hole in the center of the slab for the pit(check local laws). For the pavers check out the DIY network. You can stream video from their site. Also if you search 'brick paver' at youtube.com you will get several instructional videos.

Good Luck

Answer 3

Personally, I would prefer to use the epoxy paint, however, with the fire and the embers the epoxy will look like hell after a while. Powerwash the slab thoroughly or use a solution of muriatic acid (dangerous stuff!) and water and rinse which will etch the concrete. Then pick out some stain at your home improvement emporium and apply.

Part of me wonders what would happen if you used a stiff bristled brush or broom and tried for some sort of texture?

Answer 4

I would power wash it and use epoxy paint, very, very durable. As for the pavers, try www.ephenry.com