When it comes to concrete, it doesn’t take much to stain it. Whether you have dropped a few nails on it the last time you completed a DIY project and there is rust, or you have several potted plants leaving stains around them from too much water, common stains found on concrete can prove difficult to remove. Big Moose Pressure Cleaning would like to share some tips to remove some common stains that are found on concrete surfaces around your home.
What Causes Rust & Other Stains on a Concrete Patio, Driveway or Walkway
1. Rust Stains on Concrete– If metal tools or supplies are left on your concrete for any amount of time, they can leave behind stubborn rust stains when you go to tidy up. Lemon juice has proven effective in removing rust. Saturate area with lemon juice and leave it for five minutes before rinsing off. Vinegar is also a great resource in removing rust. Follow the same steps that you did with lemon juice to get rid of rust stains.
2. Oil Stains on Concrete Driveway– Oil stains are one of the most common stains found on concrete surfaces. Most people have dealt with a leaking car at one point or another. To remove oil stains, the excess oil needs to be removed first. This can be done with sand or kitty litter covering the oil stains and left for 24 hours, then swept away. After removing excess oil, get the surface wet and use dish soap to remove the stain. Gently scrub with a brush and repeat if needed.
3. Removing Food & Drink Stains on Concrete– If you have a patio in your backyard, chances are, you have held several meals on it while entertaining guests. Anytime there is food involved, you have to worry about spills. Beverages that are dark like wine or coffee, can really stain your concrete. Foods that are greasy can also leave behind stubborn stains. Dish detergent is a great cleaner to use when getting rid of food and drink stains. Vinegar is also very effective. Use hot water and a scrub brush with either of these to clean up any spills after your dinner party.
4. What Kills Mold on Concrete– When speaking of concrete found outside, it will take some abuse from the elements over time. One way to remove moss, mold or mildew from your concrete is a bleach and water solution. Mix 1-part bleach with 4-parts water and leave for about 10 minutes before vigorously scrubbing the surface. Oxygen bleach is also an effective cleaning agent when dealing with this type of stain. If you notice these stains are especially stubborn, you can add ½ cup powdered laundry detergent to your solution.
5. Salt Stains or White Spots on Concrete Floor– Stains caused by salt can be very stubborn and hard to get rid of. The use of muriatic acid and water can help you get rid of this hard to remove stain. You can find it at your local hardware store and should use caution when using it. Follow instructions found on the label, and don’t forget to wear gloves and protective eyewear to protect yourself.
Pressure Cleaning, Power Washing & More in McDonough, Barnesville, Fayetteville, Covington, Locust Grove, Griffin, Stockbridge & Social Circle, Georgia
If you have stains that are especially stubborn, you may need the help of professionals to get rid of them. Big Moose Pressure Cleaning offers pressure washing to help restore and clean your concrete surface. Call for an appointment today!
