How To Clean Concrete Like a Pro

Before we get into the steps to how to clean concrete, the first thing to know is that you don’t need to be too delicate given that concrete is one of the most durable materials available. Even though that concrete is durable and generally low maintenance, it definitely needs a good cleaning every so often to remove build up of grease, stains, debris, and other gunk – which are notoriously difficult to get rid of.

There are several methods that can be used to clean concrete driveways depending on the type of dirt or stain you are trying to remove. Below, we walk you through our most effective method of how to clean concrete step by step that can easily be done at home.

Steps To Clean Concrete

1. Sweep or blow away any loose debris, such as leaves or dirt, from the surface of the concrete. This will make it easier to see and remove any remaining dirt or stains.
2. Mix a solution of warm water and mild detergent in a bucket. You can also use a concrete cleaner specifically formulated for removing stains from concrete.
3. Apply the cleaning solution to the concrete using a stiff-bristled brush or a pressure washer. Scrub the surface of the concrete to loosen and remove dirt and stains. If you are using a pressure washer, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate pressure setting and keep a safe distance from the surface to avoid damaging the concrete.
4. Rinse the surface of the concrete with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution and dirt. You can use a hose or a pressure washer to rinse the surface.
5. Allow the concrete to air dry and voila!

If the concrete is severely stained or has built-up grime that cannot be removed with a mild detergent solution, you may need to use a stronger cleaning solution, such as a concrete etching product or a heavy-duty degreaser. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, when handling these products.

Pressure Washing Concrete

A pressure washer is one of the most effective tools to use to keep a driveway clean. When setting up the pressure washer, be sure to assemble it according to the manufacturer’s instructions and fill the detergent tank with a cleaning solution specifically formulated for concrete surfaces.

We always recommend testing the pressure washer by spraying a spray pattern on a small, inconspicuous area of the driveway to ensure that it is set to the appropriate pressure and to make any necessary adjustments.

Then, you are all set to begin pressure washing: Hold the pressure washer wand at a 45-degree angle to the surface of the driveway and start at one end of the driveway. Slowly move the wand back and forth in a sweeping motion, overlapping each pass slightly to ensure that you cover the entire surface.

How Often Should A Concrete Driveway Be Cleaned?

The frequency of cleaning concrete surfaces depends on a variety of factors, including the amount of foot traffic, the weather conditions, and the presence of stains or other contaminants. For most residential and commercial concrete surfaces, a thorough cleaning every 1 or 2 years is generally sufficient.

However, surfaces that are exposed to heavy foot traffic, such as sidewalks, driveways, and patios, may need to be cleaned more frequently, especially if they are prone to staining or if they are located in areas exposed to a lot of dirt. In these cases, a cleaning every 6-12 months may be necessary.

If you notice any stains or build-up of dirt on your concrete surfaces, it is always a good idea to clean them as soon as possible to prevent the stains from becoming more difficult to remove later on. This will help you upkeep the concrete and keep it well-maintained.