Concrete is a solid choice when it comes to driveways, sidewalks, and patios. It offers strength and durability while still being relatively simple to work with. Take your pick of various colors and decorative options, as you customize outdoor surfaces. Then, enjoy a low-maintenance approach since concrete offers maximum protection for minimum effort. It does require periodic cleaning, however. Clean concrete is more than a matter of curb appeal; it protects the surface—and your investment—while preventing cracking, crumbling, and other concerns. Here is a simple schedule to help yours last a lifetime:
Every Week
Break out your broom and start sweeping! Keeping concrete surfaces clear of dirt and debris reduces the safety risk of slips and falls. Even as it prevents stains from setting in. You should also get in the habit of clearing off grass clippings after mowing or weeding. In the fall months, quickly sweep away falling leaves. Before they have a chance to mold, mildew, or otherwise discolor your patio and pathways. While not permanent, these stains can be difficult to remove.
Every Month
Grab your garden hose and wash away the grime. Concrete’s porous nature makes it a magnet for dirt, dust, mold, and other undesirable materials. Regular washing reduces the chance of stains and other damage resulting from those accumulating particles. If you notice any problem areas, apply detergent and gently scrub with a bristle brush before washing.
Every Year
Even the most well-maintained surfaces will eventually come in contact with oil, gas, grease, salt, and other hard-to-remove materials. Plan to power wash concrete once a year to get rid of difficult and damaging stains. This will keep your driveway, patio, or sidewalk looking like new, no matter how long away your installation happened. Since improper power washing can result in significant damage, we recommend you reach out to a professional cleaner. Peak Power Wash offers reliable concrete power washing in Maryland and our experienced washers can quickly and safely clean all of your surfaces!
Every Other Year
Applying a water-repellent sealer every other year protects your concrete against staining, corrosion, and surface damage. Penetrating silicon-based sealers prevent damage from harsh weather, UV rays, freeze-thaw cycles, and de-icing agents. Topical sealers like polyurethane are ideal for high-traffic areas, while acrylic is an easy and inexpensive option for decorative concrete.
Right Away!
A regular cleaning schedule will significantly reduce concrete concerns, but sometimes accidents are unavoidable. If you notice oil, grease, or similar materials on your surfaces, don’t wait for your monthly or yearly cleaning to remove them. The longer a stain sets in, the more difficult it is to remove and the more damage it will cause. Grease stains may be absorbed by quickly covering with sawdust or kitty litter. Sometimes even stubborn stains can be remedied by a simple solution of kitchen staples like baking soda, detergent, and concentrated citrus juice.
As homeowners, we have plenty to keep us busy, but don’t overlook cleaning your concrete. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and that is certainly true when it comes to the major headache poorly maintained concrete can cause. At Peak Power Wash, we offer a variety of cleaning services for any home or property. Give us a call to schedule your annual power washing today!