Prepare the Surface

What happens in this clip

Before applying any paint, thoroughly clean the concrete surface of the stairs. Use soap and water to remove any dirt, grime, moss, or loose debris. Scrub the surface well and then rinse it thoroughly. Crucially, allow the surface to dry completely. The presenter cleaned his stairs the previous night and left them to dry overnight and for several hours in the morning sunlight, ensuring the surface was bone dry before painting.

Goal: Ensure the concrete surface is clean and completely dry for optimal paint adhesion.

What's used

Tools

• Scrubbing Brush
• Soap
• Concrete cleaner
• Water

About the full video

This project guides you through creating and applying your own anti-slip paint for concrete surfaces, specifically a slippery staircase. By mixing fine-grained sand with rubberized floor coating, you can significantly increase traction and prevent falls. The process involves cleaning the surface, sifting sand, mixing it with paint in small batches, and applying it evenly to achieve a durable, non-slip finish.

Step 2 of 5: Clean Stair Surfaces

Clean the entire surface of your outdoor stairs meticulously. This involves sweeping away loose debris such as leaves, dirt, and sand. For more stubborn grime or algae, use a stiff-bristled brush and a suitable cleaning solution (like a mild detergent or a deck cleaner). Rinse thoroughly with water and allow the stairs to dry completely before proceeding to the next steps. If there are old paint or sealant layers that are peeling or worn, they may need to be scraped or sanded off.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Keep Outdoor Stairs Safe in Ice and Snow

1. Step 1: Inspect Existing Stairs

   • 0:00–0:15 Observe Existing Outdoor Stairs
   • 0:15–0:26 Evaluate Stair Safety
   • 0:00–0:17 Initial Visual Assessment of Step Construction

2. Step 2: Clean Stair Surfaces

   • 0:19–0:32 Clean Outdoor Wooden Surfaces
   • 1:12–1:14 Clean and Dry Steps
   • 1:13–1:37 Prepare the Surface (this video)

3. Step 3: Apply Anti-Slip Treads

   • 0:02–0:06 Apply Anti-Slip Strip
   • 0:51–4:06 Apply Adhesive-Backed Anti-Slip Products
   • 0:09–0:15 Understand Anti-Slip Product Options

4. Step 4: Install or Reinforce Railings

   • 0:24–0:42 Check Railing Height
   • 2:39–3:22 Check Railing Stability
   • 4:56–5:38 Attach Handrail

5. Step 5: Implement Snow and Ice Melting Solutions

   • 0:03–0:07 Apply De-Icing Salt to Surfaces
   • 0:07–0:20 Prepare Ice Melt and Traction Materials
   • 0:35–1:06 Ensure Snow and Ice Removal Readiness