How To Safely Apply Concrete Cleaning Chemicals for Optimal Results

Keeping your concrete clean is the key to its longevity and good looks, but sometimes it takes more than just a spray with the power washer to get your concrete back to its prime condition. Concrete cleaning chemicals can be used to lift many different types of marks and stains, like those from dirt, mould, oil and grease. But as is the case with any chemicals, learning to use them safely is vital!

This blog will help you learn everything you need to know about using concrete cleaning chemicals safely, including the different types of concrete cleaning chemicals available, the supplies you’ll need and step-by-step instructions on how to apply your cleaning chemicals safely. Read on, and let’s get your concrete sparkling clean!

What Kinds Of Concrete Cleaning Chemicals Are There?

Here are three of the most common types of concrete cleaning chemicals you’ll encounter.

Miteq 306 & 304

Miteq products are designed to seal and clean masonry products, including concrete! In particular, the cleaner products 304 and 306 are particularly well-suited for our needs. 

The 304 cleaner can remove mineral salt deposits from concrete (also known as efflorescence) which are caused when vapour migrates through the slab to its surface, bringing with it unsightly salts.

The 306 cleaner is used to remove rust stains from concrete, and can be used undiluted or diluted to suit the severity of the stain. Miteq has over 20 years of experience in developing their products, and are a trusted source for concrete sealers and cleaners in Australia!

Crete-Off

This amazing solution can be used to remove dried concrete from tools and around your new concrete fixture. As a fast-working biodegradable substance, Crete-Off is a must-have for anyone working with concrete professionally or as a DIYer.

As a non-toxic substance, Crete-Off is safe to use without a respirator. It can be used without damaging tools, metal painted or plastic surfaces, and is easily neutralised by adding water. You won’t need to vigorously scrape, scratch or hammer your concrete to remove it now – a simple application of Crete-Off will do the job easily!

Hydrochloric Acid

This substance is used for etching concrete, which is a vital step when applying a sealer to the top of your concrete. As a strong acid, this product must be handled with care, which includes wearing proper safety equipment when using, and then disposing of it safely.

Australian Slate-Crete Supplies has an amazing variety of acid and concrete cleaning chemicals, all available in a useful range of sizes.

Concrete Cleaning Supplies

Here is what you’ll need when cleaning your concrete.

• Cleaning solution: Our choice of cleaning solution will depend on the type of stain you are trying to remove.
• Gloves and boots: Protective gloves and boots will prevent any skin irritation from handling the chemicals. Make sure both are waterproof.
• Eye protection: Even the gentlest cleaning chemicals can cause eye irritation, so wear protective goggles or glasses when using them.
• A mask: Some concrete cleaning chemicals (like hydrochloric acid) release dangerous fumes, so make sure you are wearing a suitable respirator at all times.
• Scrubbing brush/stiff broom: This is what you use to work your concrete cleaning chemicals into the stain. Choose ones with stiff bristles that will be able to lift the stain without being damaged.
• Hose or pressure washer: You’ll need water to remove the cleaning solution when you’re done. Use a regular hose or a pressure hose set to a low or moderate pressure for this.

Need the right safety gear? Check out the range of personal safety supplies at Australian Slate-Crete Supplies.

Applying Concrete Cleaning Chemicals – Step By Step

While the exact order and steps you need to follow will depend on the type of concrete cleaner you are using, here are some general steps you can follow. Make sure to check the instructions on your cleaner for specifics!

Step 1: Prepare The Concrete

Give your concrete a quick clean by removing any dirt, dust and rubbish on it. A quick sweep will do, although you can wash it with water if needed. Make sure your concrete has dried before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Apply Your Cleaning Chemicals

Apply your cleaning solution. Check the packaging to see if it needs to sit on the stain, and if so, for how long. Use your stiff-bristled brush or broom to work it into the concrete and loosen the stain.

Step 3: Hose Down Your Concrete

Wash away your cleansing solution and the lifted stain with water. A pressure hose will provide a more crisp finish, but be careful if using it on cracked or aggregate concrete, as high-pressure water may cause cracks and pieces of concrete to loosen.

Some tough stains might require repeated applications of your chemical cleaner. Be sure to properly clean the concrete and reapply the cleaning solution each time if this is the case.

You can find hand tools and power tools for cleaning your concrete at Australian Slate Crete Supplies, including brooms and pressure cleaners.

Keep Your Concrete Clean With These Tips And Tricks

Now that you’ve cleaned your concrete, how do you keep it looking its best? Here are a few professional tricks to keep in mind!

• Clean Regularly And Lightly: removing debris like branches and leaves from your driveway will prevent dirty stains from forming, as well giving it a good sweep a few times a month. Not only will your driveway look neat and tidy all the time, but it will also make sure you find any potential stains quickly.
• Address Stains Fast: Spill stains, like those from oil or food, need to be addressed quickly before they sink into the concrete. Even the most thorough clean will not be able to get rid of a neglected red wine or petrol stain, so have your concrete chemical cleaner ready to go, as well as some absorbent towels, when the potential for stains is high.
• Apply A Protective Coat Of Sealant: You can protect your concrete while also giving it a glossy, satin or matte finish. You can even find coloured sealers to change or enhance your concrete’s hue! Most sealants are water or solvent based – you can find out more information on concrete sealers in this blog on Exploring the Different Types of Sealers for Concrete.

Keep these tricks in mind and you’ll reduce the need to chemically clean your concrete, saving you money in the long run and contributing to the longevity of your concrete fixtures.

Browse a wide range of quality concrete sealers at Australian Slate-Crete Supplies.

Discover Quality Concrete Cleaning Chemicals At Australian Slate-Crete Supplies

When you need concrete supplies in Australia, you can turn to the experts at Australian Slate-Crete Supplies! With over 25 years of experience in the decorative concrete industry, we are excited to help you create and maintain beautiful concrete fixtures and surfaces with ease.

You can contact us online or give us a ring on 03 9408 7722 to make an order or ask any questions. Or feel free to visit our showroom in Epping to explore our range of concrete cleaning supplies in person!