If you’ve been Googling how to paint a concrete porch floor and wondering if you can actually make it look pretty, elegant, and not like a gray slab… friend, you are in the right place. 

Today I’m walking you through exactly how I transformed a plain concrete porch floor into a show-stopping space with a gold metallic painted border—and yes, you can totally do this yourself.

I’m breaking it down step by step, keeping it real, and sharing all the little tips that make the difference between “meh” and WOW, did you hire a professional?”

Let’s do this.

Why Painting a Concrete Porch Floor Is a Total Game-Changer

Painting a concrete porch floor is one of those projects that gives you big impact without a big price tag. According to HomeAdvisor, painting concrete can cost up to 70% less than replacing it—and honestly, the visual payoff is huge.

Concrete is durable, but let’s be honest… it’s not winning any beauty contests on its own. The good news? With the right prep, paint, and a little creativity, you can turn it into a custom designer moment that feels intentional and high-end.

And that gold metallic border? That’s the secret sauce. 

Watch this short video and see how simple this project is…

https://youtube.com/shorts/14KcXD3vQc4?feature=share

Step 1: How to Prep and Clean a Concrete Floor Before Painting

Why Cleaning Your Concrete Floor Matters

Before you even think about opening a paint can, we need to talk prep. Painting over dirt, dust, or debris is a recipe for peeling paint—and nobody has time for that.

How to Clean a Concrete Porch Floor

Start by sweeping the floor thoroughly. Then wash it down to remove dirt, grime, and any residue. Let it dry completely before moving on.

Step 2: Priming a Concrete Floor with Drylok Primer

Best Primer for Concrete Floors

For this project, I used Drylok Primer, and I highly recommend it. It’s made specifically for masonry and concrete, which means better adhesion and longer-lasting results.

Why Tinting the Primer Makes a Difference

Here’s a little insider trick: tint your primer dark gray. This gives you better coverage and makes your black topcoat richer and more even.

I used a cut-in brush to cut paint around the edges and tight areas. I like the short handle because it was easy to maneuver the brush under the railing.

Use an extension pole with a roller attached to save your back (because bending over a porch floor is not cute).

Also, make sure to wear gloves, primer is difficult to remove.

Step 3: Painting a Concrete Floor with Drylok Floor Paint

Best Concrete Floor Paint for Porches

Once the primer is dry, it’s time for the star of the show— Drylok Concrete Floor Paint in black.

Apply one coat, let it dry, then apply a second coat if needed. I always recommend two coats for durability and depth.

Let the paint dry overnight. Trust me, patience here pays off.

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Step 4: Tools You’ll Need to Measure and Tape a Painted Floor Border

Supplies for Creating a Painted Border

Before we get fancy with gold, you’ll need:

• 1” blue Tape
• 2” blue painter’s tape
• White chalk
• Measuring tape
• Utility knife

This is where the magic starts to happen.

Step 5: How to Measure a Border on a Concrete Porch Floor

Creating a Clean, Even Border

Decide how far in from the wall you want your border. I measured 8 inches from the wall, which felt balanced for this porch.

Mark your line with chalk, then apply the 1” tape from corner to corner. Repeat on all four sides.

Slow and steady here—use a Utility knife to cut a sharp, clean line  = professional results.

Step 6: How to Create a Double Border with Painter’s Tape

Layering Tape for a Designer Look

After laying your first border, follow the pattern: See below

Once all the tape is down, remove the center 1” tape, leaving the 2” tape in place. Congratulations—you’ve just created a perfectly spaced double 1” border.

And yes, it’s going to look amazing.

Step 7: Why Sealing the Tape Is the Most Important Step

How to Prevent Paint Bleeding

This step is a game-changer. Before adding the gold paint, seal the tape using your base black paint.

Run a small brush along the inside edge of the tape. This seals it so when you apply metallic paint, it won’t bleed underneath.

Skip this step and you’ll regret it. Ask me how I know. 

How to Paint a Gold Metallic Border on a Concrete Floor

Best Way to Apply Metallic Paint

Use a soft brush to apply the gold metallic paint. Apply two thin coats, letting the first coat dry before the second.

Metallic paint likes patience. Rushing causes streaks—and we’re not about that life.

How to Speed Up Paint Drying Safely

Using a Heat Gun Without Ruining Your Paint

If you’re short on time, a heat gun can help. Keep it moving and don’t hold it in one spot, or the paint can bubble.

Think warm breeze, not flamethrower.

When and How to Remove Painter’s Tape

The Most Satisfying Part

Once everything is dry, slowly remove the tape. This is the moment where all your hard work pays off.

Use a small artist’s brush to touch up any tiny imperfections. Perfection is optional—character is allowed.

Finished concrete porch floor painted black with a hand-painted gold metallic border for a custom, high-end look.

How to Seal a Painted Concrete Porch Floor

Protecting Your Painted Floor

To protect your masterpiece, apply at least two coats of sealer. This adds durability and keeps your floor looking fresh, even with foot traffic. 

A sealed floor = long-lasting beauty.

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Painting a concrete porch floor isn’t just about paint—it’s about confidence. It’s about looking at a boring space and saying, “I can make this beautiful.”

And now? You absolutely can.

If this project inspired you, imagine what else you could transform.

Let’s Stay Creative Together 💕

If you loved this tutorial, you’ll love my weekly blog, where I share DIY projects, decorative painting tips, and creative ideas you can actually use.

What my client had to say….

Until next time…
XOXO,
Cheryl