A decorative concrete enhances the appeal of your outdoor space and increases the property value. Apart from the feel-good factor, it adds functionality to the outdoor area. You can use this additional space for gatherings, parties and spending quality time with your family.
Implementing some quality stamped concrete patio ideas can be quite a challenge. Doing it on your own can be time consuming and hectic. Hiring best concrete contractors in Ohio for this job is definitely a wise decision. After all, they have the knowledge, skills, and expertise to design beautiful patios in an amazing way. Apart from this, they can also help in maintaining the beauty and décor of stamped concrete patios. Here we will share some quick tips that you can execute to maintain the stamped concrete patio of your home.
Tip 1: Sweep
Sweeping can keep the stamped concrete patio in good shape. Most of the time, dead leaves that fall on the patio can leave bad stains. It is because leaves break down organically and it creates chemical reactions which can stain the concrete. These stains become permanent and spoil the amazing patio designs. Therefore, a regular sweep is a must to keep the patio clean.
Tip 2: Pressure washing
Pressure washing is also called power washing which is a process to use the machine of compressed water to remove the dirt which builds up on patios. You can rent pressure washers from a home improvement store. These are either electric powered or gasoline powered. Using the detergent specifically meant for concrete will also help to clean the patio quite well. Just, make sure that the pressure washer is not on a very high setting else the elements will break. You should move the hose back and forth and don’t leave it in one place for a long time. Use safety goggles or gloves while doing the job.
Tip 3: Seal the concrete
Using color hardeners during the stamping process offers additional benefit. It makes the concrete surface strong and resistant to abrasion as well as water penetration. Contractors use many coats of protective sealer to block the grease, oil, chemicals, dirt and other substances from penetrating. It makes the concrete easier to clean and prevents fading of color due to UV exposure.
Even sealed concrete requires maintenance because harsh weather conditions show signs of cracking and it should be treated quickly else it will get worse due to freezing and expanding. It’s better to find stamped concrete Ohio professional contractor for this job to maintain the concrete look.
Tip 4: use degreaser for oil stains
One of the places where you will see oil stains is your stamped concrete floor of the garage. Even a good car can leak oil and that’s why you will need a degreaser made of concrete. So, consider this when you buy a pressure washer detergent.
Some important things to consider:
If the surface of the stamped concrete becomes dull or loses its shine then recoat it with the sealer. Thus, you will be able to restore the luster. Use the best quality sealer.
Do not make use of salts on the outdoor surface especially when it is the first winter after the installation of pavement. Sealers for the decorative concrete usually fail in areas where the use of de-icing salts is made. This damage is not because of the salts but because of thaw cycles and freezing temperature.
Though sealers will take the stains away, it is still not a great idea to remove spills, grease, oils, etc. as it can damage the substance.
First, rinse and scrub the surface and make sure to remove all the soap from the concrete. Let the surface dry completely. Put the sealer, the next day and you can also add an anti-skid additive to it. The temperature should be 55F and 90 F. Use the second coat only when the first coat is not sticky to touch.
Conclusion:
For the stamped concrete maintenance you should use these preventive measures and also call stamped concrete Cleveland Ohio experts once in a while so they can address the possibility of any issues that can hamper the patio. Avoid using any harsh chemicals on the stamped patio. It can spoil the complete look. Best thing is to take advice from an expert if you are not sure what to do.
