Hiring a concrete cleaning service is a great way to improve the look and functionality of your property. Dirty concrete surfaces can become dangerous and a hazard, as well as unsightly. Since concrete is porous, contaminants can penetrate the surface and become difficult to remove. A professional service will be able to safely remove these contaminants and leave your property looking as good as new.
Maintenance of concrete surfaces
Preventive maintenance is critical to the long-term health of concrete surfaces. Concrete surfaces that are regularly exposed to water and the elements are especially susceptible to damage. Properly applying the right treatment at the right time will extend the life of the concrete. Performing preventive maintenance early on can prevent costly repairs later.
If you notice cracks or small pieces breaking away from the concrete surface, take steps to repair them before they become more serious. The smallest cracks and flaking are often easily repairable, but larger ones may need a replacement. Cracks and flaking concrete are indications of a problem with the concrete mix.
Another way to maintain concrete slabs is through regular inspection. Regular inspections can detect cracks before they turn into large problems. This prevents settling, which can cause significant damages. Although you may be able to repair minor cracks yourself, severe cracks will require the services of a concrete leveling expert.
Methods of cleaning concrete
Cleaning concrete is an important maintenance task that should be performed periodically. Whether you’re resealing a driveway, washing off dirt and moss, or removing grease, cleaning concrete can help you keep it looking its best. Some cleaning methods include power washing, water washing, and acid washing. The method you choose should depend on the type of surface you’re cleaning.
Some stains can be difficult to remove, such as those left by acid. Acidic cleaners, such as muriatic acid or oxalic acid, can be used to remove them. Although these cleaning solutions can damage the surface of a concrete floor, they’re safe for residential use and have very few disposal requirements. Potassium hydroxide is another acid-neutralizer that can be used to remove tough stains, though you must let it soak into the concrete surface for a few hours before you see any results.
Acid washing is one of the oldest methods of cleaning concrete. It removes a thin layer of the concrete’s surface. However, it is not effective for removing stains and polyurea coating that extend beyond the surface. This method can also weaken the surface and leave it uneven.
Cost of concrete cleaning
Cost of concrete cleaning varies depending on the amount of soil and grease that needs to be removed. In addition, the location of the area will affect the cost. For example, if the concrete floor is in an office building, you might need to have it cleaned once every three years, while a patio with little traffic may need to be cleaned every other year.
The cost of pressure washing concrete can range from $130 to $190. The process involves soaking the concrete in cleaning solvent and using a high pressure washer to blast dirt and grime from it. Once the concrete has been cleaned, it is then sealed with a sealant to prevent further damage. This process usually takes about an hour.
If you are DIY-ing the process, you can purchase or rent a concrete power washer. These machines are incredibly useful for cleaning tough stains and dirt from concrete. You can also hire a concrete pressure washing contractor to do the job for you. These contractors typically use high-grade equipment that you won’t find at a home improvement store.
Requirements for hiring a concrete cleaning service
When you hire a concrete cleaning service, you need to make sure they use the right equipment to clean your concrete. They should use high-pressure washing equipment that is powerful enough to get rid of tough stains and contaminants. Power washers should have a flow rate of 4 gallons per minute or more. Some jobs will require more pressure to remove tough contaminants or heavy tire-skid marks. However, most power washer contractors agree that 3000 psi will do the trick.