Concrete is a popular choice for homeowners looking to construct a patio on a tight budget. Apart from being cheaper, concrete is also durable and easy to maintain. It does require cleaning from time to time, especially during the mid-spring and summer seasons when you use your patio more often. The beginning of the spring season signals thorough interior and exterior cleaning as you prepare for the hot season.
Cleaning different areas requires unique techniques, and when it comes to cleaning your concrete patio, you may be asking yourself lots of questions, like "how do I clean my concrete patio after winter? Are there certain ways to clean your concrete patio in the spring?" if this is you, this post is a solution for you. Here are a few easy tips you can utilize to clean your concrete patio during spring.
Use a Pressure Washer
A pressure washer can be quite effective in removing loose dirt on your concrete patio. It also helps you wash and rinse difficult-to-reach areas easily, to keep your patio clean for family and guest use. However, it’s essential to test the power in your pressure washer first to avoid damaging your concrete. Apply the power pressure on a small area and observe how it works before using it on the entire patio.
Create a Baking Soda and Vinegar Mixture
Baking soda and vinegar are popular household cleaning products you can use to clean anywhere without damaging surfaces. For slightly stubborn marks, such as barbecue grease, pet stains, charcoal and rust spots, you can use a vinegar and water solution and let it sit for a few hours. You can also mix baking soda with water. If the stain seems stubborn, add some soap to the mixture, pour the mixture around the stain, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Clean the patio normally with soap and lots of water.
Bleach or Muriatic Acid
If nothing else works to remove the stubborn stains on your patio, consider using bleach or muriatic acid. Remember to be careful when using the two products and only use one product at a time. If one doesn’t work, use the other one. Muriatic acid is quite toxic but very powerful in removing concrete stains. Wear protective eyewear and gloves when handling the product and follow manufacturers’ instructions. When using bleach, avoid adding other cleaning detergents as they can affect its ability to remove stains effectively.
Rinse Your Concrete and Let It Dry Thoroughly
Once you have cleaned the entire patio with soap and water and removed all stains, start rinsing the patio from one end, heading in the opposite direction. As you do so, check to see if all areas are clean and rinse the patio thoroughly. Wait for the patio to dry completely before placing your furniture. Don’t forget to schedule a sealer application to help improve its lifespan.
Get in Touch With the Concrete Experts
Having trouble with your concrete patio? Bri-Mic Construction, Inc. has a solution for any problem you may be having. Whether you need to replace your concrete patio or renew it to meet modern standards, our concrete foundation experts are ready to handle any concrete project according to your needs. To learn more about our services, call us at (716) 337-0500 for a consultation.