The cleaning of outdoor concrete floors is very different from that of concrete floors for interiors. Here we explain how to remove dirt and mildew without damaging your concrete floors.
Concrete is a resistant material for interior and exterior floors. It is durable, easy to clean and quite resistant to stains. However, the concrete gets stained. It is porous and will absorb dirt, spills and mold. No matter how hard the concrete is, you will need periodic scrubbing. So here we will tell you how to clean the concrete, both indoors and outdoors.
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A pressure washer is the easiest way to clean outdoor concrete. You must be able to remove dirt, mildew and dirt in an afternoon. The well-known Karcher brand is the ideal solution, of course you should read the instructions on how to use the machine before starting. Spray the surface of the patio with a detergent and use a stiff brush to scrub it in the concrete. Never use a metal bristle brush. Metal fibers and rust can get trapped in the porous surface of the concrete. Put on safety glasses and gloves. Turn on the pressure washer. Move the wand on one side, using the same movement you would do if you were mopping a floor.
Do you want to know how to remove concrete stains? There are several options. You can use chlorine, ammonia (Note: never mix the two) and other commercial solutions. To obtain a natural solution for difficult stains on concrete floors, mix flour and hydrogen peroxide in a paste with the consistency of peanut butter. Spread it over the stained area. Let rest during the night. Then, scrape with a scraper tool with plastic edges.
Trisodium phosphate (TSP) mixed with water and rubbed on the stained area with a nylon bristle brush can remove stubborn stains. Rub until the stain is gone and rinse with a hose. TSP you can buy it by going to the following link https://amzn.to/2JGvwzF.
Muriatic acid can be used on outdoor floors to clean the most difficult stains, such as rust or dry grout. It is a powerful and toxic material that must be used with extreme caution. Wear glasses and protective gloves when you use it and be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean the concrete with muriatic acid.
For polished or patterned interior concrete floors, you should take a gentler approach to how to clean the concrete. You will only use a mop and a bucket of water mixed with a mild cleanser. Do not use ammonia, bleach or any highly acid substance on polished or patterned floors. Some good cleaners include Castile soap, liquid dishwashing detergent, stone cleaners, and mild floor cleaners. Mix a solution, apply to the floor with a wet mop and then rinse with a mop with clean water.
How to Clean Concrete Floors To make your concrete floors resistant to future stains, apply a concrete sealer. Use a paint roller to apply on clean, primed concrete. Start at the center of the area and move the sealant to the edges. Floors should be sealed every two or three years. Knowing how to properly clean the concrete will keep the floors in your garage, workshop and house as new.