Fixing Your Concrete Driveway

Simple Solutions To Clean, Enhance, And Protect Your Concrete Slab Patio

by Gavin Jackson

As a homeowner, you most likely know the importance of outdoor living. From extra space for entertaining to an increase in your home's appeal and value, it is easy to see the benefits of a deck, porch, or patio. Considering one third of buyers want a property with a patio or terrace, ensuring your own outdoor space is clean and conditioned is wise for your home's overall appeal. Using this guide, you can clean and enhance your concrete patio without a great deal of stress.

Simple Solutions for Cleaning

Weather, environmental conditions, and basic wear and tear can cause dirt and debris to accumulate on your patio. While unavoidable in most cases, removing this surface debris and discoloration requires little effort.

Each week, sweep off your patio to remove light dirt, leaves, and grass clippings. This is an efficient way to prevent heavy buildup.

Throughout the year, consider washing your concrete patio using your garden hose and natural cleaning solution. Remove all furniture and décor from your patio before rinsing off the concrete with your hose. In an outdoor pump sprayer, combine the following ingredients:

  • 2 gallons of warm water
  • 2 cups of baking soda

Shake the container to mix the ingredients. Be sure the baking soda dissolves into the water. Pump the container's top handle to create pressure in the sprayer before dousing the entire concrete surface. Allow the baking soda to rest for a few minutes before rinsing with your garden hose.

The baking soda will dissolve away stubborn dirt and discoloration from your concrete without affecting surrounding landscaping. Allow it to dry before placing furniture and décor back on your patio.

Simple Solutions for Enhancing

Outdoor living spaces should be relaxing and appealing, so enhancing your concrete slab with color will easily improve your patio's look. In addition, a layer of colored sealant also protects your concrete from potential cracks due to moisture and weathering.

Fortunately, sealants are available in a variety of color choices, so there is an option for every style and personality. To improve the look of your concrete patio and increase its lifespan, use the following steps to apply a colored sealant:

  1. Choose a dry day with temperatures at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit or above to apply the sealant. Excessive moisture on the concrete from rain or humidity can create application issues and haziness on the patio's surface.
  2. After sweeping off your patio, pour a sealant down on one end of the concrete slab.
  3. Using a roller brush with a long handle, spread the sealant over the concrete.
  4. Pour additional sealant down on the concrete as you work your way over the patio.
  5. Spread the sealant generously over the surface, but be sure it is even and free of puddles.
  6. Allow the sealant to dry for a few hours before apply a second coat of sealant.

Your patio adds value and function to your home, but proper maintenance is essential for protecting your outdoor living space. Using this guide, you can clean and enhance your concrete slab patio while improving its overall appeal. If your concrete needs restored, visit Epoxy Stone Inc.

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