How Can I Wash Stamped Concrete?

HOW TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN STAMPED CONCRETE

Stamped surfaces like traditional concrete, when properly installed and maintained, even when exposed to harsh winter weather conditions, will provide decades of service. By making the surface smoother and more resistant to abrasion and water penetration, color hardeners that are often used in the stamping process offer additional benefit. Most contractors also use several protective sealer coats to block dirt, chemicals, oil, grease, and other substances from penetrating. Sealers also make it easier to clean the concrete and avoid UV damage from color fading.

Even properly sealed stamped concrete, depending on the weather conditions and the form and amount of traffic it receives, can require some routine maintenance. Here are ways to clean and handle your stamped concrete to preserve its beauty and prolong its service life:

EXTERIOR SURFACES

• Sweep and wash the surface occasionally to avoid dirt buildup using a garden hose or pressure washer, push broom and a mild detergent.

• Reseal every 2 to 3 years:

1. Rinse well with a garden hose on high pressure or a pressure washer.
2. Scrub with a push broom and a small amount of liquid dish soap.
3. Rinse again, making sure to remove all soap residue.
4. Dry completely – allow 24 hours to air dry or use a leaf blower. DO NOT apply a sealer to wet or damp surfaces.
5. Apply the sealer using a 1” nap roller in 2’ x 4’ sections. Anti-skid additive can be added to the sealer. Recommended air temperature should be between 55 F and 90 F. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on all products used.
6. Apply a second coat when the first coat is no longer sticky to touch.

INTERIOR SURFACES

• Sweep and wash the surface occasionally. Wet mopping or dry dust mopping of the floor is typically the only routine upkeep needed.

• It is particularly important to maintain the sealed surface on surfaces subject to lots of foot traffic to prevent wear patterns. Using a sacrificial floor wax or polish can provide extra protection by shielding the sealer from wear and serving scuffs, scratches and grime as a shock absorber.

HELPFUL HINTS

• If a stamped surface dulls or loses its shine after time, the luster is normally restored by restoring with a sealer. Tell the installer to use the right sealer’s advice.

• Especially during the first winter after the pavement is built, avoid using deicing salts on outdoor surfaces. In areas where deicing salts are applied or which receive drip-off from parked cars, sealers for decorative concrete often fail. The harm is not caused by the salts themselves directly but by the cycles of freezing/thaw caused by the salts. See more about the Deicing Salts effects.

Although sealers will inhibit stains, it’s still a good idea to remove spills, oil, grease, or other possibly damaging substances immediately.