Though concrete is extremely durable, it is still
susceptible to stains. Because of its exposure to the elements, cars, passersby, and other potential stain causes, concrete can easily get marked up. Remove stains on your concrete to make it look like new again. When your concrete looks pristine, your curb appeal is boosted, and your property looks a little more polished off. Once you get all of your stains removed,
try sealing you concrete to avoid future stains.
Rust
Among the most common stains to cover concrete surfaces—rust. Rust happens when metals return to their natural unrefined state. So how does it get on your concrete? There are a few possibilities. Spots of rust will often show up on driveways and porches because of iron from lawn fertilizer. Rust also accompanies metal; any sort of metal can return to its unrefined state and cause rust.
Rust can be removed fairly easily with some household items. The acid in vinegar and lemon juice make them prime rust removers. Put one of these acidic liquids on the stain, let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then scrub away the rust stain with a brush. Repeat as needed.
Oil and Grease
Oil and grease stains plague many driveways. Whether it’s an oil leak from your car or some grease dripping from a trash bag, these stains can be tough to remove. You can avoid these stains by using sealant on your concrete and practicing caution when dealing with anything that could potentially stain your concrete.
Sometimes the stains are unavoidable. Once you have noticed a stain, address it immediately. The more time the stain has to sink in, the more likely it will last. Right away, use something absorbent to soak up as much of the stain as possible. Usually, the best antidote for an oil stain is dish soap and warm water. You’ll likely need to scrub the stain away and then use a towel to absorb any access oil.
Potted Plants Stains
Have you ever noticed that when you move a potted plant, it leaves a ring? When a potted plant has been in the same location for some time, water can build up underneath the pot and create a ring-shaped stain around the rim of the pot. When this happens, try using some dish detergent and warm water to scrub it away. If that doesn’t do the trick, oxygenated bleach and water will help. Apply this mixture (1:1 ratio) and let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub away.
Salt Stains
When that cold weather hits, salt may help to break down your icy walkways, but it can also stain your concrete. Those white salt stains can endure all year. To rid your sidewalk of them, mixture together vinegar, a dash of dish soap, and water. Cover the stained area and let it rest for 10-15 minutes, stubborn stains may need more time. Then with a stiff bristled brush, scrub away the markings.
