Learn How to Remove Rust From Concrete With Midwest Pro Services
Learn How to Remove Rust From Concrete With Midwest Pro Services If you do not know how to remove rust from concrete, it can be frustrating when it appears on your driveway, front walk, or patio. It is almost tempting to ignore these rust stains and let them stay put. However, don’t throw in the towel just yet. Just because removing rust stains from concrete is tough doesn’t mean that you can’t do it. Here at Midwest Pro Services, we have a thorough understanding of the process, as we are experienced concrete cleaning providers in the Toledo, OH area. In this blog, we’ll share the knowledge we’ve earned along the way with you! Then, you’ll be able to make a decision: whether DIY concrete cleaning is right for you, or if you’d prefer an appointment with our fully trained professionals. Either way, you’re well on your way to eliminating those unwanted rust stains for good. What Causes Rust Stains on Concrete So where did those rust stains come from in the first place? First, you must understand what exactly rust is. Rust is the end result of a chemical reaction between iron and oxygen atoms. If you were to put a chunk of iron outside, it would react with the oxygen in the air and slowly build an outer layer of rust. In short, this is what’s happening to your concrete. This is true even though concrete isn’t necessarily made from iron. That might make you wonder—how could rust stains even appear if that much is true? For one, concrete sometimes has iron impurities mixed into it, inviting rust to form. Sometimes, though, the iron atoms required for oxidation come from external sources. For example, metal objects left on concrete, such as shovels, grills, or vehicles, can result in rust stains on concrete. Water with high iron content can have this effect, too. In other words, rust stains on concrete are all but inevitable, and it’s likely you will deal with them at some point. Consider Rust Removers Rust stains on concrete are a common problem that almost all property owners will have to deal with at some point. Fortunately, special rust removing chemicals have been formulated to help these property owners fight back. For example, oxalic acid is often used to break down rust stains. Oxalic acid is commonly sold as crystals that are mixed with water to create a rust-busting solution. This acid is then applied to rust stains and given time to work its magic. Another rust removal option is sodium gluconate. While this chemical is not as fast-acting as oxalic acid, it is safer for plants and the landscape in general. Many consider this option to be more eco-friendly. Choose the rust remover that is best for your project and show rust stains who’s boss! Removing Rust Stains With Pressure Washing At Midwest Pro Services, we highly recommend removing rust stains with pressure washing in addition to rust removal chemicals. This is because the power of pressurized water is a highly effective way of rinsing foreign substances off of concrete. Because concrete is so durable, it can be pressure washed with upwards of 3,000 PSI. With this level of pressure, just about all debris will disappear, and the concrete won’t even be scratched as a result. If you plan to pressure wash your own concrete surfaces, you will want to ensure that you have all the necessary equipment. This includes the following items: After treating rust stains with rust remover chemicals, simply spray them with an appropriate amount of water pressure. This should result in the complete removal of rust. In its place, you will find that concrete is brighter, smoother to the touch, and much more visually appealing. Consider pressure washing all of the concrete’s surface—not just the area that was afflicted with rust stains—to ensure a consistent and attractive appearance. The Challenges of DIY Rust Stain Removal If you need to remove rust stains from concrete, you may consider doing this work on your own. This is by no means an impossible task, and many DIYers have learned how the process works. One of the biggest benefits of removing rust from concrete on your own is the low cost. When you do your own physical labor, you don’t have to pay someone else to do it. This is a fantastic benefit if you want to save the maximum amount of money. However, the main downside of DIY rust stain removal is that you’ll have to do all the physical labor. This can be tiresome, physically demanding work. It’s time-consuming work, too, and it can be difficult to find time for it if your schedule is already packed. For these reasons, consider professional concrete cleaning services from Midwest Pro Services. We are a locally owned and operated business that is prepared to serve community clients like you! Professional Concrete Rust Removal At Midwest Pro Services, we proudly provide a wide variety of pressure washing services to the Toledo, OH community. This includes concrete cleaning services, allowing you to not only eliminate rust stains on concrete but also get rid of dirt, moss, mold, and algae. We are prepared to complete the work for a fair price, and we invite you to reach out to us for a free cost estimate. Let us know about your project by contacting us online today. We will get back to you at our earliest convenience.