How to Faux Stain a Concrete Driveway

Many of the same techniques used to create an interior faux finish--rag rolling, color washing and sponging--can also be applied to exterior concrete driveways to achieve decorator-stylish stain effects. Granted, conditions vary, paint is different and you must often work quicker than indoors, but for a fraction of the cost of acid-etched stain, it can be well worth the effort. If you enjoy the creative process, it can be satisfying to watch your exterior masterpiece come to life.

Broom
Concrete cleaner
Leaf blower
Hose
Power washer
Water supply
Concrete stain
Paint roller
Sponge
Sea sponge
Rag
Paper plates
Latex gloves
Concrete sealer

Instructions

- 1
  Sweep the driveway clean, or blow away dirt with a leaf blower. Clean concrete well with concrete cleaner, following the manufacturer's instructions. Rinse well, then rinse again, removing all cleaner residue. Alternatively, you can use a power washer. Let dry thoroughly.
- 2
  Roll out a base coat on the driveway. Let it dry. Exterior concrete stain soaks in very quickly.
- 3
  Apply alternate colors with a sponge or rags, layering each color in random patterns. Roll a rag saturated in another color onto the base layer, moving it in organic, fluid motions. Create a wet acid etched-look by loading a sea sponge with color and placing on a wet layer of a different color. They will blend and soak in. Work with many layers, creating texture and dimension while leaving the base coat peeking through. Work in small areas and move to the next section when satisfied with the look.
- 4
  Allow stain to dry overnight.
- 5
  Apply or one more coats of concrete sealer per the manufacturer's instructions. Roll it on with a paint roller to protect the driveway's surface.
- 6
  Let the sealer dry overnight. Avoid driving on the driveway for a minimum of 48 to 72 hours.

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