Stains happen – so how do you remove stains from your hardscapes in Vienna, VA?
Before we get started, here are some general stain removal tips:
- Always have a blue bottle of Dawn dishwashing soap on hand – you’ll need it for most stains – and be generous with it.
- Some stains need warm water, some need cold.
- Always rinse the area well with water.
- Follow all safety directions, including protective glasses and gloves.
- Do not add bleach to either dishwashing liquid or ammonia; this could create a deadly poisonous gas.
Food, grease, oil, and lipstick
- Make a solution of dishwashing detergent and warm water.
- Using a stiff brush, work the solution into the stain – or if it’s a bigger stain, use a stiff broom.
- Rinse well with clean water.
- If the spot is still there, add some ammonia to the dishwashing detergent and water solution, and repeat cleaning with a stiff brush.
- Rinse well again.
- If there is still some stain left, scrub with some mineral spirits.
Paint and candle wax
- Using a butter or putty knife, remove as much paint or wax as you can
- Scrub the area with a metal-bristled brush and cold water.
- Rinse well with clean water.
- If there’s still a stain, rub mineral spirits on the area.
- If the stain is on concrete and these treatments don’t work, try aluminum oxide abrasive or an abrasive brick. (Remember, this is just for concrete.)
Blood, coffee, juice, feces
- Remove the stain as soon as possible – don’t let it set it.
- Make a solution of dishwashing detergent and cold water.
- Using a stiff brush or broom, work the solution into the stain.
- Rinse with clean, cold water.
Efflorescence
- Using a wire brush, scrub the area to remove the white stain.
- If this doesn’t work, contact Premier Paving & Planting, and we will advise you on next steps.
For more information about hardscapes in Vienna, VA, please contact the experts at Premier Paving. Established in 1987, Premier Paving & Planting, Inc. provides free estimates, and delivers a full compliment of high quality landscape services, including concrete work and lawn and garden services, along with installation and maintenance of permeable and non-porous paver and hardscape surfaces and structures. NCMA and ICPI certified, Premier Paving is licensed and insured, and carries an A+ rating from Angie’s List.
