How To Remove Rust Stains From Concrete
It’s virtually certain that you have some sort of concrete on your property. That’s because it’s a popular, durable material that is used to make all kinds of structures. A few examples include sidewalks, patios, driveways, and parking lots. During your time on the property, you’ll notice that this concrete accumulates debris, most of which can be easily removed with pressure washing. However, what should you do when rust stains appear? What makes getting rid of these stains different, and what techniques do you need to use to eliminate them?
Learn how to remove rust stains from concrete in the paragraphs below! At Cardwell Cleaning, we have plenty of experience in rust removal, so rely on us. We are even available to do this work for you if you would like to schedule an appointment.
Where Do Rust Stains Come From?
Before learning how to remove rust stains, let’s get a better understanding of where they come from. Rust is a chemical reaction that occurs when oxygen bonds to metal. However, concrete isn’t made of metal… so how can it possibly rust? The answer is that it is picking up iron or steel molecules from somewhere else. For example, metal objects lying on the concrete—such as tools, cans, lawn equipment, or grills—could be the culprits behind these rust stains.
However, rust stains are sometimes caused by sources you wouldn’t expect at first. For example, many lawn treatments contain iron compounds that can make their way onto concrete surfaces. If your concrete has rebar inside it, it could be causing rust stains to appear on your concrete, too. To prevent as many rust stains as possible, store metal objects somewhere else. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to avoid all rust stains. So, what should you do about it?
Preparing For Concrete Rust Removal
It’s time to learn how to remove rust stains from concrete. That way, you can target these unwanted blemishes and get rid of them for good. So, what will you need for this work? The first thing you’ll need to do is select a cleaning solution that will help you break down rust stains. We’ve included a bulleted list of your options below.
- White Vinegar. This is best suited for light rust stains. It’s also a convenient option because you more than likely have a jug of it stored underneath your sink.
- Oxalic Acid Cleaners. For moderate rust stains, go the extra mile and find a cleaning solution containing oxalic acid, which breaks down rust.
- Hydrochloric Acid Cleaners. The toughest rust stains are best treated with hydrochloric acid cleaners. Always handle these with care; don’t get them on your skin.
What other equipment will you need for the project? A hard-bristled brush will help you scrub away rust after you have treated it. You can also use the pressure washing process to remove stubborn rust stains. If you choose to do so, you will need a pressure washer, an attaching hose, and safety equipment (including goggles, gloves, full-length pants, and closed-toe shoes). Don’t forget to give yourself enough time to complete the work. We recommend giving yourself at least two hours for thorough rust stain removal.
Applying Your Cleaning Solution
The first step of how to remove rust stains from concrete is applying your cleaning solution. Remember to always handle these substances with care. Some can even injure you if exposed to your bare skin. First, sweep the area so there is no dirt, dust, or other debris on the concrete. Then, spread an even layer of the cleaning solution onto the rust stain. You can do this with a spray bottle or a brush. Finally, give it several minutes to work its magic. This usually takes ten to fifteen minutes in total.
Cleaning solutions break the bond between rust and concrete so you can more easily remove it. Don’t skip this step because otherwise you’ll have a much harder time getting rid of those stains—and the last thing you want is suboptimal results!
Brushing and Pressure Washing
Now that the rust stains have been weakened, it’s time to remove them for good. If you have a hard-bristled brush, you can scrub the rust, slowly making it fade away. You don’t have to worry about damaging the concrete surface because the material is so durable. Revitalize your concrete’s appearance and destroy rust stains without leaving a scratch behind!
Of course, you can also use pressure washing to eliminate rust stains. First, set your pressure washer to an appropriate setting. We recommend using 3,000 or more PSI; sturdy concrete surfaces are able to withstand this force with ease. This allows you to essentially erase rust stains by standing two feet away and spraying them.
DIY or Professional Rust Stain Removal?
When learning how to remove rust stains from concrete, there’s a big decision that you have to make. Should you do this work on your own? While it’s very possible to remove your own rust stains, that doesn’t mean that it’s easy. It’s a time-consuming process that might even require sophisticated equipment. If the last thing you want to do with your free time is do even more work, consider reaching out to Cardwell Cleaning for the professional assistance you need.
We are a locally owned and operated business, and serving the Greensboro community is what we’re all about. Whether you are a residential or commercial property owner, we’d like to help you next. Contact us online, and you can schedule an appointment today. We’ll even give you a free cost estimate. That way, you know what you’re paying ahead of time. There are no hidden fees at Cardwell Cleaning.
