Concrete floors have in recent years become the preferred choice among homeowners due to their stain resistance and durability in comparison to other floors. With proper treatment and maintenance, your concrete floor can last a lifetime.
There are several types of concrete finishes, these are; unsealed concrete, sealed, polished, painted, stained and stamped. These concrete floor types are very different and therefore they have specific cleaning methods. You can contact an OC contractor to learn more about the different types of concrete floors.
How you clean and maintain your concrete floors will determine their appearances in the years to come. Here are 4 tips for cleaning concrete floors.
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1. Use a Pressure Washer
The easiest way to clean unsealed exterior concrete floors is by using a pressure washer. Oil stains and tire marks on your garage floor and driveway can be very cumbersome to clean if you only have a mop and a bucket. However, with hot water and a pressure washer, your concrete floors will be sparkling clean and you will cut down on the time and energy needed to clean the floor by hand. You will find information on Squiffyclean.com that will help you choose the most powerful pressure washer for your home.
2. Wash All Stains Immediately You Notice Them
Concrete is a strong and durable material for both indoor and outdoor floors. However, since unsealed concrete is porous it is susceptible to soak up spills, dirt, and mildew. Be sure to wash any spills and stains immediately you see them so that they are not absorbed by the concrete. Also, the best time to clean concrete floors is at the end of each day when the foot traffic is at a minimum so that the floor can have enough time to dry.
3. Use Neutral Cleaning Products
If you are looking for a concrete cleaner that will not harm you’re unsealed, painted or stamped concrete then it’s always a good idea to make your own using readily available ingredients at home. Mix an eighth cup of ordinary dishwashing liquid with a gallon of warm water and use it to wash your floors. You can also use baking soda or hydrogen peroxide to clear out simple stains and odors from outdoor concrete.
However, if you are dealing with very tough stains such as rust stains, then muriatic acid can be used. This acid should be used as a last resort when all other safer methods have failed. This is because muriatic acid can be toxic and therefore you should proceed with caution. Wear protective gear such as gloves, masks, and eyewear and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If used properly, muriatic acid can scrub away all the imperfections on your concrete floor.
4. A Damp Microfiber Mop Is the Best for Indoor Painted Concrete Floors
An indoor painted concrete floor can be cleaned the same way as other floor finishes. However, it is always advisable to avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach because they can damage the finish. Once you are done sweeping and dusting the house, use a damp microfiber mop and a gentle all-purpose cleaner to wipe the house clean. Avoid pouring too much water on the floor as it can cause the paint to break down and peel. Always rinse your floor well with plain water and a mop and allow it to air dry.
