Best Ways To Clean Concrete Patios

Best Ways to Clean Concrete Patio...Are You Doing It Right?

Cleaning sidewalks, driveways, and concrete patios can be a daunting task. Homeowners often find themselves overwhelmed with questions on how to clean their concrete patios. What detergents should you use? How often do you really need to clean it? Is it time to rent a power washer? With our years of experience, we’ve found the best ways to keep your concrete patio looking and feeling like new. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind and a list of things to avoid.

Recommended methods for how to clean concrete patios

There are a variety of ways to clean your concrete and have it feeling fresh again. It’s important to know which methods will be most effective and the least damaging. First and foremost, dry mopping or sweeping on a regular basis will be the least invasive and most helpful. The longer we let our concrete patios accumulate dust and dirt, the more we have to worry about deep cleaning. When your patio is looking a little rough from changes in seasons or Uncle Bob’s mishap with the plate of BBQ wings, it’s probably best to get out your scrub brush and detergent. Using mild dish soap detergents are the safest bet for any type of concrete. They won’t damage the color and they are great at removing grease. Depending on the finish of your concrete, there may be specific cleaners that are better options. Read the labels and beware of anything containing chemicals that might damage your concrete. When possible, try to use pH-neutral cleaners.

When you should use a power washer

A lot of people may be tempted to use a power washer when deciding how to clean a concrete patio. These machines can be very useful when trying to remove heavy stains or years of build-up, but they can be extremely damaging if used too often. When using a power washer to clean your concrete patio, it’s important to know what type of concrete you’re cleaning and if it has a special finish. Make sure the power washer you use has the correct PSI to avoid unnecessary damages. The general rule is to use high pressure water no more than once a year and remove excess standing water where possible.

Chemical cleaners

No matter which method you’re using there’s always one important thing you should absolutely avoid when cleaning concrete patios and that’s the use of harsh or acidic chemicals. Never use hazardous materials on your patio because they can cause irreparable damage to the surface. If you have tried using soap and vinegar and still have stains that won’t come out, it’s best to call in a professional. Using harsh chemicals can reduce the durability of your concrete patio or cause cracking or foundational damage. It’s also good to remember that concrete is a porous material and anything you use on it is capable of seeping into the ground beneath.

When looking for the best ways on how to clean your concrete patio, just remember that proper upkeep is your best friend. Stick with the least invasive methods possible that will get the results you need so you can keep enjoying your patio for as long as possible.