Surface prep is the key to everything, saying that... the rest is quite unique to the circumstances of each project. So thats why there are so many systems.

There's paint. plain old porch paint is ok in places where there isn't much going on.

There’s dye. A penetrating concrete stain is an example. It has no waterproofing properties...just color.

Then there are Acid Reactive Stains. It reacts chemically with your concrete to produce a variegated effect not unlike a tie dye T-shirt. Each is unique. Again no waterproofing, just color, so you’ll need a clear coat with both of these two to protect the concrete from weathering.

There are build up systems of Siliconized Acrylics mixed with concrete stains that do both jobs with a single product.

Ask me which system is best for your project and why.

First select a color already present in the exterior of your home.

Trim color, shingle color, a certain brick in the façade or just a color that appeals to you.

Then select a few colors from the same family from your color selection charts . Go outside... snipped out of the chart with a small ringlet of tape on the back of each for a quick “stick it on and see” approach to things.

Seeing how colors interact can easily narrow the field in your selection process.

Standard or distressed finishes?

A solid block of uniform color is an elegant and classical statement...gloss or satin, you can’t go wrong.

With the distressed finish you have less color density and a more worn and comfortable feel. A more weathered natural stone quality. Satin or a “no show” silane/siloxane work best in this application.

Home Owners Associations, Historical District designations and other committee driven obstacles should be approached in advance and approval be assured before beginning any project and of course calling the dig line to have the properties utilizes mapped out for all potential eventualities. Planning a project should always include these to avoid costly water and gas line breaks.

Finally, spend some time with your ideas. See them in all lighting conditions and make sure you are comfortable with your selections before committing color to concrete. It’s kinda hard to get back.