Concrete patios are practical, relatively affordable, and durable, making them a popular choice among homeowners. Concrete isn’t the dull, gray surface of years past, and now you have the option to add color stains and stamping. Although these patios are exposed to nature’s elements, with just a bit of care, they can look beautiful for decades. Fortunately, you only have to clean yours once a year. Keep on reading to learn how to care for your concrete patio.
Remove Red Mud and Rust Stains
Rust stains from furniture legs and grills are a pain to remove. In some parts of the country, the soil contains so much iron that red mud stains must be given the same treatment as rust stains. Although you might be tempted to clean with bleach, it’s best to avoid it because it’ll permanently set in rust stains. To clean mud and rust stains, you’ll need a cleaner that contains oxalic acid, a nylon-bristled scrub brush, and a garden hose or power washer.
Do the following: Sweep away all debris from the stained area. Apply the cleaner to the stained area and follow the directions on the packaging. Scrub away with your nylon brush. Rinse away the cleaner with water and allow the area to dry. Repeat if stain remains.
Remove Mildew Stains
Heavy mildew stains can appear on concrete due to damp outdoor conditions. To effectively kill mildew spores and remove black stains, you’ll need to use chlorine bleach. Oxygen-based bleach is excellent for removing stains, but it won’t kill the spores. Instead, use the following:
- Chlorine bleach
- Water
- Spray bottle or sponge mop
- Eye protective gear
- Old towels or plastic sheeting
- Nylon-bristled scrub brush
- Garden hose or power washer
Once you’ve gathered your tools, do the following:
- After you’ve removed everything from the patio, mix a solution of one part chlorine bleach to two parts water in a plastic bucket or spray bottle. Bleach can burn and possibly kill the greenery you’ve worked hard to grow, so protect it by placing towels or plastic sheeting over your plants. Wear old clothes you don’t often use because bleach spots are inevitable, and wear protective eyewear to avoid burning your eyes with bleach.
- Spray on the bleach solution or use the mop to spread it over the mildew-stained area. Allow the cleaner to sit for thirty minutes. If you’re dealing with heavy stains, add more time as needed.
- Scrub the concrete with your brush and rinse it thoroughly with the hose. Use a power washer for heavy stains because it’ll provide a steady stream of water to blast away grime. Once you’re done cleaning the patio, rinse your greenery with a hose.
Contact Hard Rock Concrete Coatings
After years of enjoying your concrete patio, you’ll have to reseal and repair your floor’s cracks. Hard Rock Concrete Coatings specializes in concrete restoration. We also do acid staining and epoxy coatings so that we can upgrade your concrete to your liking. Request your free consultation today.
