Home Garden

How to Improve Drainage on a Concrete Patio

Heavy rainfall or sprinkler use can cause water to build up on a concrete patio. Excess water can cause concrete discoloration and pitting, and it may also damage nearby house structures. You can improve patio drainage by relocating water sources, applying a waterproofing sealer and installing drainage mats.

Things You'll Need

  • Scrub brush
  • Plastic sheeting
  • Waterproofing sealer
  • Garden sprayer
  • Paint roller
  • Drainage mats
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Move sprinklers and plants located near the patio to prevent water from spraying or draining onto the concrete.

    • 2

      Clean the patio thoroughly with soap, water and a scrub brush to remove dirt and grime in preparation for sealing. Allow the patio to dry completely before you apply sealer.

    • 3

      Mask the ground and walls around the patio with plastic sheeting to protect them from the sealer.

    • 4

      Spray an even coat of sealer over the patio. The sealer will prevent the patio from absorbing water, which will encourage water to run off the sides.

    • 5

      Roll a paint roller over the sealer to distribute it evenly into the concrete.

    • 6

      Place drainage mats around the patio, or build up soil in slopes around the edges of the patio to force water to drain away from the house.