How to Remove Oil, Algae and Rust Stains From Concrete
Driveways, sidewalks and patios are made to take abuse, but concrete is also porous, which means it soaks up whatever lands on it. After a few seasons in Shreveport’s warm, humid climate, most concrete surfaces are carrying algae, oil, rust and ground-in dirt that a garden hose will not touch. Here is what causes those stains and how professional cleaning removes them.
Why Concrete Gets Dirty So Fast
Concrete is full of tiny pores. Moisture, oil and organic material settle into them, and in shaded or damp areas algae and mildew take hold quickly. Vehicles, grills, planters and irrigation water add to the problem, and the longer a stain sits, the deeper it works in.
Common Concrete Stains and Where They Come From
- Green or black algae and mildew from shade and moisture
- Oil and grease from vehicles and equipment
- Rust from metal furniture, tools or iron in irrigation water
- Tire marks and general road grime
- Pollen, leaves and dirt that get pressed into the surface
Why a Hose and Soap Are Rarely Enough
Surface scrubbing removes the top layer of dirt, but stains that have settled into the pores usually need the right cleaning solution and equipment. Renting a pressure washer is not always the answer either. Too much pressure or the wrong technique can leave streaks, etch the surface or damage joints, so it helps to match the method to the concrete.
How Professional Concrete Cleaning Works
- We walk the surface and note heavy stains, cracks and nearby landscaping
- Plants and nearby surfaces are protected
- Stained and algae-covered areas are pre-treated
- The surface is cleaned with equipment suited to the concrete
- Everything is rinsed and checked before we leave
Is It Worth It?
Clean concrete changes how a property looks, but it also makes walkways safer, because algae and mildew make wet concrete slippery. It matters when you are getting a home ready to list too, which is why we also work with local realtors. Businesses can look at our commercial pressure washing for parking areas, sidewalks and storefronts.
When Cleaning Is Not Enough
Cleaning restores the surface, but it cannot repair damage. Deep cracks, sinking slabs and water that pools in the same spot after every rain point to a structural or drainage problem. If that sounds familiar, our drainage solutions may be the better place to start.
Concrete Cleaning With Clean Sweep
Clean Sweep Outdoor Solutions provides concrete cleaning and pressure and power washing for driveways, walkways, patios and sidewalks across Shreveport, Bossier City and nearby communities.
Request a free estimate or call (318) 459-8707.