Your Guide to Removing Concrete Stains

Removing Concrete Stains

Decorative concrete is a very popular option for patio and pool surfaces. Not only is it cost-efficient, durable, and attractive, but it actually offers a host of decorative options to transform your run-of-the-mill sidewalk into a gorgeous statement of your style and personality.

Stamped concrete, the process of imprinting patterns in freshly placed concrete instead of using pavers or natural stone, is a very popular trend right now in driveway, patio, walkway, and pool deck construction thanks to its many perks and variations. But what happens when your gorgeous concrete falls victim to a nasty stain?

It may seem tricky at first, but there is always a solution that can restore your concrete back to its former glory.

The majority of tough concrete stains can’t just be scrubbed away, but must instead be drawn out of the concrete. Trisodium phosphate works magic when blended with a cup of water and a cup of absorbent material, because the creamy paste slowly soaks into the concrete and breaks up the stain. It may take two or three applications, especially if the stain has been sitting for a while.

You have quite a selection of absorbent materials at your disposal. Baby powder is a simple choice for small stains, but diatomaceous earth is better for large stains.

If that doesn’t do the trick, aim for an organic cleanser found at any pet store. These cleaners are made up of enzymes and bacteria that break down the organic stain-maker. Since it’s a slow digestive process, you need to allow up to two days for the solution to do its work.

Of course, it isn’t always so complicated. If you’re lucky, and the stain is simple, a degreaser or dish soap will remove the stain. When in doubt, call in the professionals. The concrete company that installed your beautiful surface will know exactly how to restore it so that your guests will never guess a stain ever existed.