Durable, strong, and able to withstand elemental exposure, concrete is a popular choice for everything from residential sidewalks and patios to sprawling parking garages and industrial surfaces. While concrete is more than capable of standing up to environmental stressors, it’s not immune to staining and discoloration over time.
Mildew, mold, algae, lichen, and moss can all make inroads across concrete surfaces, altering the appearance along the way. Organic growth and debris aren’t the only enemies to clean, beautiful concrete surfaces, though. Over time, spills and leaks can create eyesores, as they can bleed-through from adjacent surfaces. Eventually, concrete can become unsightly and unkempt looking, in need of deep cleaning. High-pressure washing systems are often far from ideal for many reasons, but soft washing can restore your patio, pathways, or concrete floors to their pristine glory days.
Four-Step Concrete Cleaning Process
Soft washing concrete surfaces is a four-step process that thoroughly but gently removes surface stains, organic build-up, and discoloration.
- Step 1 – Breaking down organic debris like algae, mold, and mildew with a specialized pre-treatment solution begins the deep concrete-cleaning process. This solution is applied carefully to ensure all areas are treated, priming the entire surface for the rest of the cleaning project.
- Step 2 – Concrete restoration technicians use a specialized machine called a surface cleaner, which allows for a deep clean of the concrete without reliance on high-pressure systems. Surface cleaner machines can provide an even cleaning result. Cleaning large surfaces with a smaller, high-pressure wand is less efficient, and focuses on smaller areas at a time to create a less even result. Surface cleaning machines come in multiple sizes, allowing professionals to choose the appropriate equipment for each project, from small patios to expansive parking garages.
- Step 3 – After the surface cleaning process is complete, a rinse step washes away everything lifted and removed from the surface of the concrete. After rinsing, cleaning professionals meticulously inspect the entire surface to identify any areas which may require additional cleaning or more focused treatment.
- Step 4 – After all concrete surfaces have been cleaned and thoroughly inspected, a post-cleaning treatment is applied which penetrates the pores of concrete surfaces. This post-treatment effectively kills any lingering mildew, mold, or algae to protect against future staining.
Specialized Treatment for Specific Staining and Discoloration
In addition to the standard four-step cleaning process, there are measures that can be taken to address specific types of staining and discoloration, like red clay, oil, rust, or even fertilizer. Whatever your concrete surfaces are subjected to, a targeted soft washing process can address targeted issues for visibly cleaner and better-looking concrete.
If you want to make a great first impression on guests visiting your home or customers patronizing your business, neglected and stained concrete can have a significant negative impact. We can help, removing stains and debris without inefficient and potentially damaging high-pressure cleaning systems.