Cleaning imprinted concrete: keys, elements and maintenance

The imprinted concreteit is a construction coating that has great resistances and a great durability but, even so, like any material in the sector, it needs some care.

This will help the coating to stay in perfect condition and maintain its technical qualities for a long time. In this news, we are going to give you the best advice for cleaning imprinted concrete.

General keys to clean imprinted concrete

The imprinted concrete is a very commonly used paving technique, both in private and public spaces. Its surface is stamped with a design, which can be of multiple types, on which, for example, any type of stains and dirt can accumulate.

However, even though it is an extremely robust material, imprinted concrete requires special care to maintain its shine and clean appearance for longer.

Next, we offer you a series of tips so you know how to clean imprinted concrete in the right way.

1. General cleaning

For a general cleaning of the imprinted concrete floor, the first thing you should do is remove all objects that are on it. Next, you can proceed to vacuum or mop, using a suitable product for the floor. Never use strong or abrasive chemicals, as you could damage the concrete stamping.

2. Deep cleaning

Once you have removed all the surface dirt, it is necessary to proceed with a deeper cleaning to remove the most stubborn stains. To do this, you should make a solution by mixing water and mild detergent, and apply it over the entire pavement with a sponge. Then, gently rub until the stain disappears and, finally, rinse with clean water.

3. Special stains

To remove special stains such as oil or paint, you should use a specific cleaning product for the type of stain you want to remove. Apply the product to the stain and let it act for a few minutes, then rinse with clean water or with more powerful, professional cleaners.

4. Graffiti stains

To remove graffiti stains, you should use a specific product for these types of stains that acts more forcefully against them. Thus, we advise you to apply the product to the stain and let it act for a few minutes, then rinse.

5. Prevention of stains

To prevent stains from occurring on the imprinted concrete pavement, it is necessary to protect it with a sealer. The sealer helps to repel dirt and stains, and also protects from the effects of water and permanent sun exposure. Apply the sealer evenly over the entire surface and let it dry completely.

6. Daily care

To keep the imprinted concrete pavement in perfect condition, it is necessary to clean it daily. For this, it is enough to vacuum or mop, using a suitable product for the pavement. Never use strong or abrasive chemicals, as you could damage the concrete stamping. With mild detergents and water, it is more than enough for this type of care.

7. Periodic care

In addition to daily care, it is necessary to clean the imprinted concrete pavement periodically. To do this, you should use a solution mixing water and light detergent, and apply it over the entire pavement with a sponge. Then, gently scrub and rinse with clean water.

8. Remove the mould

If the imprinted concrete pavement is very dirty or has mould, you should proceed to a deeper cleaning. For this, you can use a solution mixing water and detergent, and apply it over the entire pavement with a sponge. Then, gently scrub and rinse with clean water.

9. Dust removal

To remove the dust from the imprinted concrete pavement, you should sweep or use a vacuum cleaner to remove those particles that accumulate.

What elements are necessary to clean imprinted concrete?

Cleaning imprinted concrete is very important to maintain its beauty and continue achieving the desired aesthetics. There are many methods and fundamental elements for cleaning imprinted concrete, here we highlight some for you.

Water

Water is the most effective and recommended element as it is respectful both with the imprinted concrete and the environment. In addition, it has natural properties that help dissolve dirt, dust and stains. There are several methods you can follow to clean the imprinted concrete with water.

The first method is the spray method. First, you should focus the spray nozzle on the dirt and spray it with pressurised water. Then, you let the water whine for a few seconds, to finish rinsing rinsing.

Another method is the sponge method. To clean the concrete in this way, you need a damp sponge and a bucket of water. Rinse the sponge in the water and then scrub the dirt with the sponge. Then, clean the area with clean water. This method is effective for light stains and dirt.

The last method is the pressure washing method. To clean the concrete this way, you need a pressure washing machine. Rinse the concrete with clean water and then turn on the pressure washing machine. Direct the nozzle of the pressure washing machine towards the concrete and start cleaning. Then, rinse the area with clean water. This method is effective for heavy dirt and stains.

Chemical products with neutral pH

Chemicals with neutral pH are ideal for imprinted concrete. This is because the neutral pH does not damage the imprinted concrete and, in addition, it is very effective for cleaning this material. Some of the most common products that can be used to clean imprinted concrete are as follows:

Sodium Bicarbonate: Sodium bicarbonate is a very effective product for cleaning imprinted concrete. However, it is important to bear in mind that this product can damage the concrete if used excessively.

White vinegar: White vinegar is another very effective chemical product for cleaning imprinted concrete. Like baking soda, white vinegar can also damage the concrete if its use is too high.

Neutral pH soap: Liquid soap is a very effective chemical product for cleaning imprinted concrete. This product does not damage the concrete and, moreover, it is very easy to use. Just apply the liquid soap on the surface of the concrete and then rinse with water.

Brushes for cleaning imprinted concrete

Regular brushing is the best way to keep imprinted concrete clean. It is recommended to brush the surface of the imprinted concrete once a week to remove dirt and debris. If there are particularly dirty areas or stains, they can be brushed more frequently.

To brush the imprinted concrete, it's important to use a brush with strong bristles. With these you can remove dust or any other type of dirt that may accumulate like leaves or papers.

Pressure washers for cleaning imprinted concrete

This tool is the one professionals usually use to clean surfaces coated with imprinted concrete although its use is increasingly common also for end users, in domestic environments as when used correctly, this tool can save a lot of time, effort and money.

This instrument is not only effective, but also safe, thus avoiding the risk of damaging the concrete and keeping the areas in the best conditions. In addition, pressure washers are easy to use and can be easily rented or purchased.

On the other hand, it's important to take the necessary time to learn how to use the pressure washer correctly, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Cleaners with highly effective detergent

At Topciment, as specialists in imprinted concrete, we know that its cleaning is vital for its appearance to be the best from the moment it is applied. Thus, in our product catalogue we can find cleaners, for professional use or not, that are capable of eradicating any type of stain in a very simple way.

Thus, just by mixing with water and spreading it over the affected surface, it extends its descaling and degreasing power. The name of this product is Ecoclean Pro,although you can take a look at all our cleaners and choose the one that best suits your needs and those of your spaces.

More tips for cleaning imprinted concrete

To carry out a successful cleaning of the imprinted concrete surfaces, apart from the necessary instruments, other considerations must be taken into account.

Frequency

The first issue you should keep in mind is frequency. Imprinted concrete should not be washed too often, however, to keep it in good condition and extend its lifespan, it can be washed once a week.

In the event that there are visible stains, it is recommended to act to remove them but, if there are none, the times can be extended up to 3 months.

How to clean imprinted concrete on indoor floors

Although it is not very common to find floors that are in indoor spaces, it is increasingly common to see them. Below, we leave the steps:

1.Dry cleaning. The first stage of cleaning the imprinted concrete is dry cleaning. This is done with a vacuum cleaner or a broom to remove surface dirt. Make sure there is no debris on the floor before proceeding with the cleaning.

2. Wet concrete cleaning. Once the surface dirt has been removed, it's time to clean the concrete with a solution of water and detergent. This can be done with a hose or a pressure washer, but always maintaining a minimum safety distance to not damage the surface.

3. Sealer application. The final stage of cleaning imprinted concrete is applying a sealer. This will help protect the concrete from dirt and moisture. Apply the sealer with a brush or a roller and let it dry completely before using the floor.

Be careful with the water pressure

The use of pressurised water to clean imprinted concrete surfaces is one of the most commonly used methods as it always yields the best results.

Indeed, although its effectiveness is more than proven it is necessary to take a series of precautions when those areas that are cleaned are coated with resinous imprinted concrete.

In fact, if a safe distance is not maintained with the use of pressurised water, the applied resin can separate from the surface, allowing the area to age prematurely.

How to maintain imprinted concrete: applying sealers

Para proteger el hormigón impreso de daños, se recomienda aplicar una capa protectora con un sellador. La elección del tipo de capa protectora depende del tipo de superficie a proteger, del grado de protección requerido y de las preferencias personales.

Sealers are applied to imprinted concrete to create a waterproof layer that repels water and stains. They also protect the concrete from damage caused by exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays. These varnishes or sealers also protect the concrete against weather, abrasion and higher traffic, allowing the colours of the imprinted concrete not to be lost and to remain as on the first day. These protective layers of imprinted concrete can be applied in several ways. The most common application is by spraying, which is an easy and quick method. Rollers and brushes can also be used.

Anyway, from Topciment, we are at your disposal for any question you have and want to resolve about how to clean imprinted concrete, or about its maintenance. We are prepared to explain anything to you in an easy and quick way.