After a fire or other incident, your sidewalk, porch, or driveway may be left with burn marks. Getting burn marks off of concrete can be difficult, but it is doable.
When washing concrete, be wary of using any strong chemicals, particularly any acid-based cleaners—these can damage concrete. Instead, use gentle washing agents such as baking soda, dish soap, and water. There are several methods you can try to get your concrete looking like new again.
Pressure Washer Method
A pressure washer may do the trick for you. Or if you don’t have a pressure washer, a high-pressure nozzle on a garden hose can work too. A powerful and direct stream of water directed at the burn mark may be able to remove the stain from concrete.
Powdered Dish Detergent Method
Powdered dish detergent is an effect and gentle cleaner. Try this method for a quick stain removal method.
1. In a large bucket, combine 1 gallon of hot water and 1 cup of powdered dish detergent.
2. Use a bristle brush to dip into the soap mixture and scrub away the stain.
3. Scrub the stain beginning at the outer edge, where it is not as deeply embedded. Work towards the center.
4. Rinse the area with warm water.
5. Repeat as needed until the stain is completely gone.
Liquid Dish Soap Method
Liquid dish soap will clean without harming almost anything. This is a good option if you have a finishing on your concrete that you don’t want to tarnish.
1. In a large bucket, combine a gallon of warm water with ½ cup of liquid dish soap.
2. Use a bristled brush to scrub away with burn marks with the sudsy water.
3. Rinse with water.
4. Repeat as needed.
Baking Soda Method
Baking soda is a powerful natural cleaning agent. It can remove many different kinds of stains, even on concrete, without leaving any residue behind.
1. Pour water over the burned area.
2. Make a thick paste with baking soda and water. Mix in a small bowl; be sure there is enough to cover the entire burned area.
3. Spread the paste over the burned marks and let sit for about one hour.
4. With a soft bristle brush, scrub the concrete.
5. Rinse over the area by spraying it down with a hose or pouring a bucket of water over it.
6. If burn marks remain, repeat the process. You may need to go through the process a few times to completely rid your concrete of marks.
It may be helpful to try a combination of these methods. If one doesn’t work for you, try another or combine two for more firepower.
For all of your restoration needs, contact the professional at RstoreMasters. Whether you need stains removed from your driveway or your home restored after a disaster—we can help! Give us a call to find out what we can do for you.
