Whether done DIY or by experienced painters, homeowners must know which paint types are suitable for exterior concrete. This fundamental knowledge helps homeowners make informed decisions and plan proper long-term maintenance.
In this blog, we’ll cover all aspects of the best outdoor concrete paint, providing the information you need on this type of exterior painting. Continue reading if you want to restore the beauty of concrete exteriors.
What Makes Outdoor Concrete Different From Interior Concrete
Exposure to weather, moisture, UV rays, temperature swings, and freeze-thaw cycles is the main difference between indoor and outdoor concrete. Interior concrete lives in a controlled environment. This means it is less likely to crack or flake and is far less vulnerable to moisture penetration and surface failure. This difference should be a key factor when choosing the best outdoor concrete paint.
Simply put, exterior concrete requires a coating that breathes, resists water, tolerates expansion and contraction, and effectively withstands UV damage. These attributes are often unnecessary in interior painting projects.
Types of Paint Used for Outdoor Concrete
Professional wall painting services usually use one of the following coatings on exterior concrete:
Acrylic Latex Concrete Paint
This is a water-based, easy-to-apply, UV-resistant, and flexible option used primarily for exterior concrete surfaces, including patios, walkways, and similar surfaces. Acrylic Latex paints can effectively handle minor expansion and contraction caused by temperature swings, a common challenge for outdoor concrete.
However, it’s worth noting that this type of paint has a major drawback: lower durability than heavier coatings.
Epoxy-Based Concrete Paint
Epoxy paints outperform standard acrylics in terms of moisture resistance and abrasion. They also create surfaces that are tougher and more durable. That said, this type is often considered a strong option for those seeking the best outdoor concrete paint.
The major weakness is that epoxy-based paints can yellow or degrade when exposed to constant sunlight, making them poor at resisting UV rays. Therefore, our professional painters suggest that homeowners use them only in partially covered outdoor areas, not on fully exposed surfaces.
Outdoor Painting Services You Can Trust
Outdoor surfaces need the right preparation and coatings to last. Our professional painters handle every step to ensure a smooth, durable finish. Reach out to us for trusted outdoor painting services.
Concrete Stains and Sealers
Concrete stains are often applied with sealers to offer a wide range of benefits for painting exterior concrete. Together, they enhance the natural texture of the concrete surface while also providing protection against moisture intrusion, freeze-thaw cycles, and surface wear.
This option works well as the best outdoor concrete paint when durability and a natural, non-painted look matter more than full color coverage.
Read more: “How to Paint a House Exterior and Achieve a Durable, Even Finish“
Key Features to Look for in the Best Outdoor Concrete Paint
This table highlights the key factors when choosing a suitable paint for exterior concrete:
| Feature | Why It Matters for Outdoor Concrete |
| Durability | Withstands foot traffic, weather exposure, and surface wear without peeling or chipping. |
| Breathability | Allows trapped moisture to escape, reducing bubbling, blistering, and paint failure. |
| Slip Resistance | Improves safety on patios, porches, and walkways, especially when surfaces get wet. |
| UV Protection | Prevents fading, discoloration, and surface deterioration caused by constant sun exposure. |
| Moisture Tolerance | Protects against rain, humidity, and freeze–thaw cycles that can damage concrete. |
Best Outdoor Concrete Paint by Surface Type
Based on everything discussed so far, the best outdoor concrete paint should be chosen according to the surface’s functionality and traits:
- Patios: Acrylic latex concrete paint for its resistance to UV, breathability, and easy maintenance.
- Driveways: Concrete coatings designed for vehicle weight that are resistant to oil and offer good abrasion.
- Walkways: Acrylic concrete paint with slip-resistant additives to meet safety standards and withstand weather exposure.
- Pool decks: Specialized coatings that can resist moisture, chlorine, UV rays, and heat buildup.
- Vertical concrete: Acrylic masonry or elastomeric paint that adheres well and prevents cracking or peeling.
- Porches: Acrylic or epoxy-modified concrete paint with added durability to manage moderate foot traffic.
Read more: “How to Paint an Old House Exterior the Right Way”
Achieve Durable Finishes With the Best Outdoor Concrete Paint
Exterior concrete requires special coatings because it is exposed to harsh outdoor conditions, such as moisture, UV rays, temperature swings, and more. As a result, homeowners must carefully assess all relevant factors and select the best outdoor concrete paint to deliver lasting results that are also visually appealing.
Compared to interior painting, exterior painting projects are more challenging and present unexpected complexities. Therefore, it’s best to hire specialists for such projects instead of handling them yourself. Our expert team of painters at Roll the Wall can help you with exterior concrete painting to ensure a smooth, durable finish. If you’re interested in our services, contact us today.
What type of paint lasts longest on outdoor concrete?
Concrete coatings and high-quality acrylic latex concrete paints last the longest outdoors. Coatings outperform standard paints because they handle abrasion, moisture, and temperature changes better. Standard interior or general-purpose paints fail quickly in outdoor conditions.
Is epoxy paint suitable for outdoor concrete?
Epoxy is durable but not ideal for fully exposed outdoor concrete. Most epoxy coatings lack UV resistance and can yellow or break down in sunlight. They work best in covered or partially shaded exterior areas.
Do I need to seal outdoor concrete before painting?
Yes, sealing is often necessary, especially for porous or older concrete. A compatible primer or sealer improves adhesion and prevents moisture-related paint failure. Skipping this step shortens the paint’s lifespan.
How long does outdoor concrete paint last?
Outdoor concrete paint typically lasts 3 to 7 years. Lifespan depends on surface preparation, product quality, traffic, and weather exposure. High-quality coatings with proper prep can last even longer.
Painted outdoor concrete yourself? Let us know which paint you used and how it held up over time.
