Many stains can be removed from concrete with a little effort and the right tools.

Stained concrete can be unsightly, but how do you clean it? Well, it takes some special ingredients and elbow grease, but most stains can be removed from concrete.

The experts at Tucker Paving have some tips to help you beat the stains.

Oil Stains
Ugly black oil stains can be a real nuisance. The best way to combat these stains is to act quickly. Soak up as much oil as possible using clay or clumping cat litter over the mess and work it in with a stiff brush or broom. Leave it for at least an hour before sweeping up. For older or more stubborn stains, you’ll need to pull out the big guns. Mix one cup of trisodium phosphate (TSP) with a gallon of hot water and pour over the stain. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then scrub with a stiff nylon brush. Then use your hose at its highest pressure to blast the spot.

Rust Stains
Unsightly orange-brown rust stains can be difficult to remove completely, but you can lessen them. If the spot is fairly new, try pouring white vinegar on it. Let the vinegar soak for 10 minutes, then scrub with a stiff nylon brush. Rinse and repeat if necessary.
For older rust stains, a commercial rust remover is in order. Use hand and eye protection with these powerful acids, and follow all manufacturer’s instructions.

Paint Stains
If you’ve spilled paint on concrete, you should be able to remove most of the color. For a small, fresh mess, mix a cup of TSP with one gallon of hot water. Work the solution into the paint with a stiff, long-handled brush, and rinse with high pressure.
Older paint spills will require a chemical paint stripper. You’ll need to use eye protection, chemical-resistant gloves, and a respirator. Mix the paint stripper with something absorbent, like baby powder or diatomaceous earth, until you have a thick paste. Smear the paste onto the paint spill with a brush or thick sponge and let sit for 20 minutes. Then use a plastic paint scraper to clean up the paste and paint. Repeat if necessary. Finally, use a scouring powder like Comet to scrub away any remaining mark, and rinse with a high pressure hose.

We hope these tips will help you keep your concrete looking good. And when you need concrete poured for your next project, call Tucker Paving to get the job done right!