A Handy Guide to Paving Paint Colours 

Want to give your outdoor space a facelift? Painting your pavers is a great way to transform your exterior without the cost and hassle of replacing them altogether. With the right paving paint colour, you can create a beautiful and inviting space that matches your home’s style and adds value. 

But where do you start? 

Why Paint Your Pavers?

Painting your pavers has many benefits:

• Protection: Paving paint protects against the elements, moisture, UV and general wear and tear.
• Visual Appeal: A new coat of paint can instantly update and freshen up your outdoor space, making it look better.
• Increased Home Value: A nice outdoor area can increase your home’s curb appeal and value.

Things to Consider When Choosing Paving Paint Colours

But, like anything, it’s worth sitting down and planning out your project before diving in. So, while grabbing the paint pot and getting started might seem like the next best thing to do, stop and consider these factors first before choosing a colour: 

1. Existing Exterior Colour Scheme: Look at your roof, walls and trim colours to make sure your paving paint colour matches the overall colour scheme.
2. Surrounding Landscape and Environment: Choose a colour that matches your garden, plants and any natural elements in your outdoor space.
3. Personal Style: Choose a colour that suits your taste and style, whether bold and bright or subtle and neutral.
4. Amount of Sunlight: Consider how much sun your paved area gets during the day, as this will affect the colour.

Pro tip: Keep the coverage of your particular paving paint in mind, as every type and brand can vary. Your surface type and general condition also play a big role in the final outcome.

Exploring the Colour Range for Paving Paint 

When it comes to paving paint colours, the options are vast and varied, catering to different tastes and styles. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, sleek look or a more traditional, earthy feel, there’s a colour to match your vision. Dulux colours, for instance, offer a comprehensive range from neutral tones to bold and vibrant hues, ensuring there’s something for every homeowner.

However, you’ll also need to consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve, as well as the architecture and surroundings of your property. The type of surface you’re painting also plays a significant role in how the colour will appear, as we noted above. For instance, bare concrete, smooth concrete, and new concrete can all affect the final look of the paint. 

To get a better sense of the different shades and tones available, refer to a paving paint colour chart from your particular supplier. Ordering samples and testing them on your surface before making a final decision can save you from potential disappointment.

Additionally, think about the level of gloss finish you prefer. A high gloss finish can make colours appear more vibrant and reflective, while a matte finish offers a more subdued and sophisticated look.

2024 Paving Paint Colour Trends

In 2024, we’re seeing a few notable trends that Australian homeowners are loving:

• Earthy Tones: Warm and natural colours like browns, terracotta and olive green create a warm and welcoming space.
• Vibrant Jewel Tones: Bold colours like deep reds, blues and purples add drama and glamour to your outdoor area.
• Textured and Metallic Finishes: Unique finishes like stone-effect or metallic paint add visual interest to your pavers.
• Neutral Tones: Classic and timeless colours like greys, creams and sandstone.

Types of Paving Paint

Choosing the right type of paving paint is just as important as selecting the perfect colour. Different types of paving paint offer unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for various surfaces and conditions.

• Water-based paints: These are a popular choice for exterior concrete surfaces due to their ease of cleanup and quick drying times. They are also more environmentally friendly, with lower VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
• Solvent-based paints: Known for their durability, solvent-based paints are ideal for areas with heavy traffic. They are more resistant to wear and tear, making them a great option for driveways and garage floors.
• Acrylic paints: Versatile and adaptable, acrylic paints can be used on a variety of surfaces, including concrete, asphalt, and brick. They offer good durability and are relatively easy to apply.
• Epoxy paints: For high-performance needs, epoxy paints are the go-to choice. They provide excellent durability and resistance to chemicals and stains, making them perfect for garage floors and other high-use areas.

Preparing Your Paving for Painting

Proper preparation is key to achieving a smooth and long-lasting finish when painting your paving. Follow these steps to ensure your surface is ready for a fresh coat of paint:

• Clean the surface: Start by thoroughly cleaning the surface to remove any dirt, grime, or debris. Use a pressure washer or a stiff brush to tackle stubborn stains and ensure the surface is spotless.
• Repair any cracks: Inspect the surface for any cracks or holes and fill them with a patching compound. Allow the compound to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
• Sand the surface: Lightly sand the surface to create a rougher texture, which helps the paint adhere better. This step is especially important for smooth concrete surfaces.
• Apply a primer: Using a primer specifically designed for concrete surfaces can significantly improve paint adhesion. Apply the primer evenly and allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Painting Your Paving Like a Pro: 

To get the best results when painting your pavers, we recommend adopting some of these handy tips: 

Prepare the paving surface:

• Clean the pavers thoroughly to remove any dirt, oil or grease that may prevent the paint from adhering.
• Etch the concrete surface to create a rougher texture for the paint to grip onto.

Choose the right type of paving paint:

• Water-based paving paints are easier to clean up and have lower VOCs (volatile organic compounds) so are more eco friendly.
• Oil-based paving paints are more durable and resistant to wear and tear but have a stronger odour and are harder to clean up. They are known for being tough and hard-wearing, making them suitable for various outdoor and indoor surfaces such as concrete, stone, permeable surfaces and brickwork.

Apply the paint with the right tools:

• Brushes or rollers for small areas or intricate designs.
• For larger areas a paint sprayer will help you get an even and quicker application.

Allow to dry:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times between coats and before using the paved area.
• You’ll need to wait at least 24 hours before applying a second coat and up to 72 hours before using the painted surface.

Maintenance and Upkeep of Your Paving Paint

To keep your newly painted paving looking its best, regular maintenance and upkeep are essential. Here are some tips to help you maintain the colour and finish:

• Clean the surface regularly: Regularly sweep or blow leaves and debris off the surface to prevent stains and damage. A clean surface not only looks better but also helps maintain the integrity of the paint.
• Seal the surface: Applying a clear sealant can protect the surface from stains and damage, extending the life of your paint job. Choose a sealant that is compatible with your paving paint for the best results.
• Touch up any scratches: If you notice any scratches or scuffs, touch them up with a matching paint colour. This prevents them from becoming more noticeable and helps maintain a uniform appearance.
• Apply a second coat: Over time, the paint may start to fade or wear off, especially in high-traffic areas. Applying a second coat can refresh the colour and finish, keeping your paving looking vibrant and new.

Key Takeaways

• Paving paint colour affects your home’s street appeal and value.
• Look at your existing exterior colours, landscape and personal style when choosing a paving paint colour.
• 2024 colour trends are earth tones, vibrant jewel tones, textured and metallic finishes and neutral shades.
• Surface preparation and application techniques are key to a long lasting and great finish.

FAQs

What’s the most popular paving paint colour in Australia?

In 2024, earth tones like browns, terracotta and olive green and neutral shades like greys, creams and sandstone are the most popular paving paint colours in Australia. But the best colour for your home will depend on your personal style and existing exterior colour scheme.

How long does paving paint last?

A: The lifespan of paving paint depends on the quality of the paint, surface preparation and exposure to the elements. On average a well applied paving paint will last 3 to 5 years before needing a top up.

Can I change the colour of my pavers without replacing them?

Yes, painting your pavers is a great way to change the colour without the cost and effort of replacing them all. By choosing the right paving paint and following the right application techniques you can transform your outdoor space.

Is paving paint slippery when wet?

Some paving paints can be slippery when wet so be careful. To prevent this choose a paving paint with a non-slip additive or apply a non-slip sealer over the painted surface. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for best results.

How much does it cost to paint pavers?

The cost to paint pavers depends on the size of the area, the type of paint used, and whether you are doing a DIY or hiring a professional landscaper. On average you can expect to pay $10 to $20 per square metre for materials if you DIY or $30 to $50 per square metre for professional installation, but this will ensure your result is as close to perfection as possible.

To get a free quote on your particular paving project, get in touch with us now!