Inspect and Scrape Loose Material
From Anti-Slip Steps · Step 2 of 6 · Video by Bite Of Life
Showing 0:07–0:09 of the source video. Watch the full video with every moment.
What happens in this clip
Begin by thoroughly inspecting the concrete porch and steps. The video shows significant wear, peeling paint, and discoloration, indicating the need for resurfacing. Use a paint scraper or putty knife to aggressively remove all loose, flaking, or peeling old coatings and any other debris from the concrete surface. This step is crucial for ensuring proper adhesion of the new coating.
Goal: Remove all loose old coatings and debris from the concrete surface.
What's used
Tools
- Paint Scraper
- Wire brush (for stubborn areas)
- Safety Gloves
About the full video
This project demonstrates how to refresh a worn concrete porch and steps by cleaning, preparing the surface, and applying a new textured concrete floor coating. The process includes scraping off old, loose material, vacuuming, and then applying a durable 'Granite Grip' coating to provide a fresh, slip-resistant finish.
Step 2 of 6: Prepare the Surface
Inspect the steps for any cracks, holes, or loose boards. For concrete steps, fill cracks and holes with a concrete patching compound, following the manufacturer's instructions. For wooden steps, replace any rotten or damaged boards and secure any loose ones. Sand down any rough or splintered areas using medium-grit sandpaper (around 80-grit) to create a smooth surface. If there is old, peeling paint, scrape it away with a paint scraper and sand the edges smooth. For a smoother finish, especially on concrete, consider using a concrete degreaser if there are oil stains, and then rinse thoroughly.
Every video in Anti-Slip Steps
Step 1: Clean the Steps
- 3:28–4:20 Rinse and Dry Stairs
- 0:08–0:14 Clean Porch and Steps
- 0:19–0:32 Clean Outdoor Wooden Surfaces
Step 2: Prepare the Surface
- 0:07–0:09 Inspect and Scrape Loose Material (this video)
- 2:15–4:46 Surface Preparation and Grinding
- 4:46–6:13 Patch Concrete Imperfections
Step 3: Prime the Surface
- 3:11–4:18 Apply Oil-Based Primer
- 1:08–1:35 Prime the Staircase
- 0:35–1:12 Continue Priming Stairs
Step 4: Apply Anti-Slip Paint
- 0:26–0:28 Apply Anti-Skid Paint
- 0:01–0:09 Apply First Coat of Non-Slip Paint
- 0:08–0:24 Apply First Coat of Patio Paint
Step 5: Apply Second Coat of Paint
- 0:10–0:11 Apply Second Coat of Non-Slip Paint
- 0:01–0:09 Apply First Coat of Non-Slip Paint
- 0:26–0:28 Apply Anti-Skid Paint
Step 6: Clean Up
- 0:06 Clean Up
- 1:22–1:32 Clean Up and Dispose of Materials Properly
- 3:39–4:21 Clean Up As You Go
Questions about Anti-Slip Steps
Do I absolutely need a high-powered pressure washer for cleaning, or can I just scrub the steps manually?
While manual scrubbing with the Shurhold 6 in. Marine Mate Stiff Brush and Klean-Strip Liquid Concrete Degreaser is an option, a pressure washer like the Westinghouse WPX 3800 psi significantly enhances cleaning efficiency. It ensures the removal of embedded dirt, loose paint, and grime, creating a superior surface for the DAICH Textured Bonding Primer and BEHR PREMIUM anti-slip paint to adhere to, which is crucial for durability.
What are the most important safety precautions to take when using the pressure washer and chemical degreaser?
Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, chemical-resistant gloves, and closed-toe shoes when operating the Westinghouse pressure washer or handling Klean-Strip Liquid Concrete Degreaser. Ensure adequate ventilation, especially in basement areas, and keep children and pets away from the work zone during chemical application and pressure washing to prevent accidental exposure.
Why does a 'beginner' project like anti-slip steps take two full days, and what factors might extend this timeframe?
The 2-day estimate accounts for crucial drying and curing times for each layer: degreasing, patching (with Quikrete or PC-Lumber Putty), priming, and applying two coats of BEHR PREMIUM anti-slip paint. High humidity, low temperatures, or extensive repairs that require longer setting times for patching compounds can all extend the project duration. Rushing these steps will compromise the final finish and durability.
What's the most common mistake DIYers make when applying anti-slip paint, and how can I avoid it?
The most common mistake is inadequate surface preparation, which leads to poor adhesion and premature peeling of the paint. To avoid this, thoroughly clean the steps with Klean-Strip Degreaser, pressure wash all debris, fill and sand all cracks and imperfections using Quikrete and PC-Lumber Putty, and apply DAICH Bonding Primer as directed. A clean, smooth, and primed surface is key to a long-lasting finish.
Can I use standard outdoor patio paint instead of the specific BEHR PREMIUM anti-slip paint listed?
While you could technically use other outdoor paints, the specified BEHR PREMIUM 1 gal. #420C-2 Textured Low-Lustre Enamel is designed with integrated anti-slip properties, significantly enhancing safety. Standard paints may become slick when wet or icy, defeating the primary purpose of this project. For optimal safety and durability, using the recommended anti-slip product is highly advised.
When should I use Quikrete Concrete Patching Compound versus PC-Lumber Putty Epoxy for repairs?
Use Quikrete 1 Qt. Concrete Patching Compound for larger cracks, spalls, and uneven areas in concrete steps, as it's formulated for robust concrete repair. PC Products 2 oz. PC-Lumber Putty Epoxy is best suited for smaller chips, divots, or repairing wooden step components where strong adhesion and sandability are required. Always ensure patches are fully cured and sanded smooth before priming.
Anti-Slip Steps
This project involves preparing and painting outdoor or basement steps with anti-slip porch paint to improve safety and durability.
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