Concrete Cleaning by Pressure Washing

Whether you're a homeowner or a business owner, concrete is present in nearly every modern structure. Concrete originates back to the Ancient Romans where it was used widely in their architecture. Since concrete has existed it has been prone to stains and discoloration, but recent technology makes restoring it to its original color possible. Properly removing the different substances and grimes that can stain your concrete structures involves different types of pressure washing.

Concrete is a combination of cement and small gravel or rocks. Water mixed with the cement creates a bonding agent that holds the gravel together. This combination is stronger than cement alone, but leaves more gaps where unwanted materials can settle. With cement already having a tendency to bond to other materials, concrete can be tricky to clean without the proper pressure washing tools.

Concrete naturally becomes discolored over time from dirt and grime that settles into the tiny holes in the surface. The process is gradual and hard to detect because the color darkens very slowly. This discoloration does not cause any structural damage or erosion to the rock, but dirt often collects unevenly across the surface and eventually causes unsightly patterns.

Removing dirt due to natural causes is a straightforward process. Some chemicals help loosen the dirt from the pores of the concrete, making removal easier. Caution should be utilized when using any chemicals, though, as many can be damaging to the environment and should not run into sewer systems. Chemical baths for the concrete may not be necessary for routine cleaning, as pressure washing alone is more than effective for dirt removal. Blasting the surface with water at a high intensity knocks dirt and grime loose.

Concrete is also prone to other types of stains that are more difficult to remove. Driveways and carports tend to collect stains from the motor oil of cars. Any type of grease, rust or paint can get embedded in a concrete surface under the right circumstances. Unexpected acts of vandalism can also leave graffiti marks that are difficult to remove by hand.

In these situations a more thorough cleaning is necessary. In order to clean these levels of grime, they must often be treated with chemical cleaners. Allowing the area to soak in the proper solvent loosens the chemical bonds to the concrete. At this point, pressure washing will knock the debris loose from the rock. Sometimes chemicals cannot be used and sandblasting is used instead. Often historical buildings or areas that drain into bodies of water cannot be treated chemically. The grains of sand scrub the surface of the rock and can have the same affect as a chemical treatment.

Whatever the culprit for dirty concrete may be, a good combination of chemicals and pressure washing can refresh a dull surface to its original look. Tougher stains may call for deeper cleanings, but regular maintenance of a concrete surface can help keep major problems from arising. Before using chemicals of any kind, though, be sure to check with your local safety laws.