Concrete patios, although low-maintenance and very durable, are still prone to staining. Concrete is a porous material that easily absorbs substances and can be stained by everything from oil to rust, but also organic matter like leaves and dirt. Annual cleaning with a pressure washer will generally take care of most of the stains, but there are a few types of discolorations that don’t usually come off in the regular cleaning process. Usually, the longer the stain penetrates the surface, the harder it will be to remove it.
Concrete Patio Cleaning Basics
We recommend starting with a standard gentle concrete cleaner and pressure washing or rinsing with a hose after the solution has had a chance to penetrate the surface. Once a year, remove all furniture, plants, rugs, and other items from your patio and give the surface a good cleaning. Do this early morning or late evening to avoid the full sun and to prevent the cleaner from drying on the surface. You can find options in any big-box store and always select the solution without harsh chemicals that can hurt surrounding vegetation. You can also use a regular dish soap mixture to clean the surface. This will help keep your patio from darkening over time and aid in removing fall and winter debris. General cleaning will highlight any areas that may need more attention.
Due to its porous nature, concrete absorbs quickly so the faster you can clean up a stain, the better the overall result. Many discolorations happen over time, such as rust stains or “outline” marks around an area rug. Sometimes you won’t notice them until your patio has been cleared and fully rinsed off.
For the tough stains, there are many remedies, and all are dependent on the type of stain.
How to remove oil and grease stains from a patio?
Oil stains create unsightly spots that show more like a concrete discoloration and are generally darker than the actual patio surface.
If the oil is still wet and on the concrete surface, the stain should be treated with absorbents. Sand, sawdust, cat litter, and baking soda can soak up the oil and prevent it from further penetrating the surface. Allow the medium to sit on the stain for a few hours and then remove, sweep, and treat with a Dawn dish soap if any discoloration remains. If the grease stain has settled into your patio, the process of removing it will be more complex. Start with a baking soda and water mix to create a paste and let it penetrate the stain. Use a stiff brush to agitate the surface. Don’t scrub too much, as there’s a chance you will cause further discoloration, especially in the area around the stain. After washing away the baking soda, the stain should be lighter, but you may need to repeat this method if necessary.
Turn to a degreaser and enzyme-based cleaner if the stain has been on the surface for a very long time. Single cleaning may not be sufficient, and you may have to repeat the process a few times to completely remove the stain.
How to get rid of rust stains from concrete patios?
If it is a minor and fairly light stain, you can start with acid like lemon juice or vinegar, pour it onto the area and let it sit for 15 minutes. Use a stiff brush to agitate the surface, and if you are seeing good results, repeat these steps until the stain disappears.
If your stain is dark and was created over a long period of time, it will likely not go away with the above method. You may need to turn to a commercial rust remover that contains Oxalic Acid or Trisodium Phosphate (TSP). Wear eye protection and gloves anytime you use harsh chemicals. The same process applies here – pour the mixed solution onto the stain, let it sit according to the directions, use a brush, and then rise.
Muriatic acid is an absolute last resort as it will most likely damage the concrete due to its corrosive nature. We generally don’t recommend the use of this agent unless you are working with a professional.
How to remove leaf and organic matter stains from concrete?
Organic stains are extremely common. If leaves or dirt debris sit on concrete for too long, then these stains are bound to happen. Luckily, the process of removal is not as complex. The first step is to wet the area to loosen any dirt on the surface of the stain. Next, apply either detergent or dish soap mixed with water, and then begin scrubbing the stain with a bristle brush and rinse.
If the stains are stubborn, you can create a baking soda paste, apply it to the stain, and then let it penetrate for 20 minutes. When the time is up, scrub the area and then rinse with water. Another method is mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and then spraying that solution onto the affected area.
Many online sources recommend bleach or a bleach mixture. Remember that highly concentrated bleach can discolor your concrete, so try to stay away from using it directly on your patio.
Using any of these methods will help restore your patio to its former glory. If you’re looking to expand or update your outdoor living space, contact our experts at Setting Sun Patios. We have the knowledge and expertise to deliver some of the most exquisite outdoor living spaces, even in tight spaces.