While a simple 'hosing down' of the stamped or stained concrete surface will suffice in a pinch, nothing can compete with hot water under pressure to get the job done quicker and better.
Pressure washers can be rented by homeowners and contractors... and at a cost of less than $30 for a day, there's plenty of time to complete all of your concrete cleaning requirements!

In some cases, it may be necessary to use acids to remove oil stains and other petroleum based 'slicks'. Finished specialty concrete cleans up with common household detergents. Interior and, in many cases, exterior stamped and stained concrete surfaces can be mopped in the same way you mop your kitchen floor! Unfinished surfaces like driveways and garages may require the use of a DILUTE MIXTURE OF WATER AND SULPHURIC ACID. Sulphuric acid can be purchased at some home centers and almost all pool supply locations. Muriatic acid is a dilute sulphuric acid used to maintain proper PH levels in "recreational watering holes".
Some important things to consider when using a NOXIOUS chemical for cleaning purposes:

• A rule of thumb is 1:10 ratio of acid to water in a 5 gallon bucket. If a stronger solution is needed, add by 1/2 whole number increments.
• SULPHURIC AND MURIATIC ACID ARE EXTREMELY REACTIVE TO HUMAN SKIN AND SINUS. While dilute mixtures produce far less chemical fumes than concentrated versions, take precaution to avoid prolonged exposure to fumes that are noticeable. Always mix and work with acids in an open outside environment!
• Do not perform the acid diluting process over the stamped or stained concrete you are working with. Choose a sandy or rocky area, away from decorative landscaping, to mix over. Concentrated Acids can drip and spill over onto the concrete and cause quite a "non-decorative' accident!
• Use a Nylon (or polypropylene) bristled brush to clean the affected decorative area. Hose down the area immediately and thoroughly to remove all traces of the acid from your property. at 1:20 ratio, the acid is almost inert, and has less of an affect than acid rain!
• If the stain is of an organic nature (unlike oil, gas, etc), Vinegar may be substituted for Acids to remove the affected concrete area.

If you have any doubts about cleaning your decorative concrete surface, contact a local concrete cleaning specialist (or just give Parker Concrete & Coatings a ring!) to perform the work.
SAFETY FIRST!

This information contained within this safety article is meant to be used as a guideline. Should you have unanswered questions regarding your concrete cleaning tasks, please call a professional who can assist you in making a safer and more committed decision. Many concrete specialists will be moe than happy to help you over the phone for smaller repairs and cleaning duties.