Dealing with Rust on Concrete

Removing rust stains from concrete may seem a little difficult to do at first glance. However, when the proper steps are taken just about any rust stain can be removed from any concrete surface. Keep in mind though, that if you are not particularly careful, you can actually cause some serious damage to your concrete, which will lead to a need for earlier replacement of your concrete. Here are a couple of methods that you can use to ensure that your concrete is free from rust.

• Use a power washer. You can use a power, or pressure washer in conjunction with either laundry detergent or concrete cleaner to remove rust from concrete. Make sure that you completely clean the entire concrete surface by sweeping, and then wetting the surface down. Then apply the cleaner and scrub using a stiff bristled brush. After scrubbing, simply power wash the area and you should be finished. However, you may need to repeat the process a few times before you get the stain completely removed.
• Commercial cleaners. Most hardware stores carry commercially made and mixed concrete cleaning detergent. Usually these cleaners will come in either powdered or pre-mixed liquid forms. When using them, make sure that you follow the directions as listed on the cleaner (also, the use of a good, stiff bristled brush wouldn't hurt).
• Muriatic acid. By applying a little bit of muriatic acid to the rust stained concrete, you are certain to remove the stain. Only one little problem with this method though, it is an acid. This means that if you are not particularly careful you cannot only remove the stain, but more of the sidewalk than you plan, as well as some of your own skin. This is an acid after all. When using this method, be sure that you carefully read and follow the directions on the back of the package as posted by the manufacturer. In addition, make sure that you are wearing proper safety equipment such as gloves and goggles before handling this material.

Finally, after you have finished removing the rust from your concrete, you will need to reseal it. This will help protect you concrete surface from getting stained again, as well as protecting it from the elements. In addition, by resealing the concrete you should also have an easier time cleaning it in the future.