When it comes to concrete in your yard, it is durable and long-lasting, which makes it a good material to install for outdoor applications. Concrete provides sharp edges, strong barriers, and solid surfaces, and it is not always the most attractive-looking surface, however, there are several ways you can alter its appearance to make your concrete more decorative with staining and other treatments. Here are some tips that you can use to transform your backyard with the right addition of decorative concrete and concrete finishes. 

Choose the Right Look

When you browse through an outdoor design magazine, you are likely bombarded with polished stone, beautiful colored tile, and attractive slate that make up each unique backyard oasis. When you are planning to transform your concrete patio into a faux finish stone surface, there are a lot of different looks that you can mimic in your makeover. Choose one that you like, whether it is brick, stone, or tile, and decide the colors and tones you want to add to the design to make it exactly what you want. 

When you use concrete stains and paints, there are good options in the types of design and technique applications you can use for a great outcome. You can also arrange for a professional concrete treatment to update any concrete surface, whether it is inside your home, garage, or in your outdoor space.

Ensure a Good Application

Once you have chosen the type of concrete treatment you want to apply, you will need to get the surface of the concrete ready by cleaning it and making it more prepared for surface treatment. Concrete commonly collects dirt and greases, which you will need to remove from the surface of the concrete. You can usually power wash the concrete with a concrete cleaning agent to lift stains from the surface. 

You will also need to etch the concrete surface to prepare it to accept a stain, whether it is acid or paint. Etching changes the surface of the concrete to roughen it up and make it become more porous to ensure a strong adhesion in the coloring treatment. Keep in mind there are treatments available for concrete that will clean and etch it at the same time, so choose one that works with your preparation process.

Use a Creative Technique

There are a lot of different stencils, templates, and patterns you can use for your concrete design. If you are creating a geometric pattern, painter's tape is a good option to help define the borders for each section. If you are creating individual stones, such as with a faux cobble or slate, you can make your own cardboard patterns or individually apply them by hand. When you have completed the look, apply a sealer with a finish that will help mimic the faux look you want, such as matte and low-gloss or a high shine look with a glossy finish. 

For more information, contact a local company that offers stamped concrete.