Concrete is one of the strongest materials used in construction, but it can be difficult to clean. Using the right cleaners and techniques is essential for getting concrete looking like new again.
Start by sweeping away any loose dirt. Then spray the surface with a garden hose or power washer (with appropriate attachments). Allow the cleaner to sit for the time recommended on the label. Click here for more info.
Alkaline cleaners
There are many types of concrete cleaners available. They vary by their effectiveness, safety, and ease of use. Some require dilution before application and some are corrosive or damaging to certain surfaces, so it’s important to carefully read the label. There are several different types of concrete cleaners, including acidic, alkaline, and enzymatic cleaners.
Acidic cleaners are often used for removing tough stains, such as oil and grease. These cleaners can damage or degrade surfaces and are usually corrosive to metals. They’re also dangerous to apply on surfaces that are wet or green, which is why they should be diluted with water before application.
Acid cleaners
Often, the most effective way to remove stubborn stains is with an acid cleaner. This type of chemical cleaner uses hydrochloric acid (muriatic acid) to clean concrete surfaces and is highly effective for removing grease, oil, mold, and other organic contaminates. However, muriatic acid can be dangerous and requires special safety precautions to use.
It is important to note that concrete must be fully cured before acid washing, usually 28 days for most mixes. It is also important to hose down the concrete and surrounding areas before application of the acid. This will prevent the concrete from drying out and prevent any damage caused by an overly strong concentration of acid.
A scrub brush and pressure washer are typically used in conjunction with acid cleaning. Once the surface has been cleaned, it is crucial to reseal the concrete to protect against future staining. If you are looking for a more environmentally friendly alternative to harsh chemicals, there are natural concrete cleaners available.
Enzyme cleaners
Enzyme cleaners for concrete cleaning are microbial-based products that break down substances into less toxic or non-toxic chemicals. They are often designed to target specific contaminants, such as oil or grease. For example, an auto body shop may use a cleaner that quickly digests oils to clean up the mess left behind after painting and detailing.
These cleaners usually come in ready-to-use concentrated formulas. They are applied directly to the contaminated surface and require little or no agitation or scrubbing. They can be found at most concrete distribution outlets or online stores that specialize in concrete and surface degreasers.
Unlike standard de-greasers and cleaners, enzymes actually eat the organic materials or contaminants that are on the surface of the floor. This eliminates the need for additional abrasive scrubbers and prevents any residue from being left on the floor. These cleaners are also great for removing the foul smell caused by uric acid salts that tend to reform as soon as moisture (humidity) is introduced.
Active cleaners
Unlike basic soap that emulsifies dirt and oils, these cleaners use more complex chemistry to break apart contamination. They are available in liquid and dry applications. Some examples are rust removers, concrete degreasers, and absorbents.
The mildest of the concrete cleaners, pH-neutral cleaners are designed to clean interior sealed concrete surfaces that don’t have embedded stains or to address lighter stains on unsealed surfaces. They typically come in concentrates that are diluted with varying amounts of water according to the level of cleaning required. Saturate the surface with the cleaner and perform light agitation or scrubbing followed by rinsing and vacuuming or mopping the area.
Spills of hydrocarbons (petroleum products like motor oil), chemicals, solvents, paint, and greases cause a wide range of unsightly stains on concrete. These are often difficult to remove. ACT’s bacterial and enzyme-based cleaners separate hydrocarbons from the concrete, and attack and digest contamination while controlling odors. These are a new generation of concrete cleaners that are safe for the environment and non-toxic to plants, animals, pets, and humans. Check this helpful information.