What I Learned While Remodeling My HomeWhat I Learned While Remodeling My Home

When you first install a concrete patio, it will look clean and beautiful. Unfortunately, concrete can quickly develop dirt, dust, oil, and debris. On a regular basis, you should clean your patio and keep it well maintained. This will prolong its lifespan. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining your concrete patio.

Cleaning the Patio

First of all, you should be doing surface cleaning regularly, about once a week or so. This includes sweeping the patio to remove any dirt, and washing the surface with a garden hose or pressure washer. If you have a lot of grime build-up or stains, a pressure washer will work better, but a hose is just fine. For regular washing of the patio, you can use water and dishwashing detergent. Another ingredient that is great for cleaning patios is muriatic acid. You can get this from any home improvement store. It cleans build-up and rust stains. Use a wire brush to scrub away stains as needed.

Repairing Cracks

Part of maintaining a concrete patio will include repairing and patching small cracks. Try to fill the cracks shortly after you notice them in order to reduce the amount of dirt and debris that gets caught inside. It is also important to seal them since water can get caught in between the cracks and cause problems with your home's foundation. Concrete patching compound is easy to use and will fill a variety of cracks and holes on the patio's surface.

Before you patch up the cracks, make sure they are cleaned out thoroughly. Remove any dirt or debris you see, such as twigs, weeds, or leaves. Wash out the crack with your pressure washer or put a high-pressure nozzle on the end of your garden hose. Once it is clean out and dry, apply the patching compound. Wait for that to cure and make sure nobody walks around the area until it is completely dry.

Sealing the Concrete

The final step to maintaining your concrete patio and keeping it clean is having it sealed. You will get the first sealant when it is installed, but you may need to repeat the process about once a year or so. Sealant will help the concrete to repel water and stains, keep dust from embedding into the surface, and provide excellent resistance to scratches and cracks. If you notice hairline cracks are occurring on the concrete, it is time to repair those cracks and have it sealed again. To learn more, contact a company like Fayetteville Contractors Inc.