How to Clean and Maintain Stamped Concrete

Like conventional concrete, stamped surfaces will provide decades of service when properly installed and maintained. Stamped concrete will require some routine cleaning and maintenance depending on exposure conditions and the type and amount of traffic it receives.

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Here are tips for cleaning and maintaining your stamped concrete to preserve its beauty and extend its service life:

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CLEAN STAMPED CONCRETE?

Routine cleaning of stamped concrete is simple. Sweep and wash the surface occasionally to avoid dirt buildup using a push broom, garden hose, and a mild detergent.

Here are the steps for cleaning stamped concrete:

1. Rinse well with a garden hose on high pressure.
2. Scrub with a push broom and a small amount of liquid dish soap.
3. Rinse again, making sure to remove all soap residue.

If this method isn’t effective, try using a pressure washer on any remaining stains. But don’t set the pressure too high, as this could cause damage to the sealer or textured surface. Or you can hire a contractor that specializes in professional concrete cleaning.

Helpful hint: Although sealers will inhibit stains, it’s still a good idea to remove spills, oil, grease, or other possibly damaging substances immediately.

Sealer Selection Tips
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Find out what type of concrete sealer to use for different applications indoors and out.

HOW OFTEN DO YOU NEED TO SEAL STAMPED CONCRETE?

Most contractors also apply several coats of protective sealer to block the penetration of dirt, chemicals, oil, grease, and other substances. Sealers also make the concrete easier to clean and prevent color fading from UV exposure.

Stamped concrete should be resealed every 2 to 3 years, depending on your weather conditions.

Here’s how to reseal your stamped concrete after it has been cleaned:

1. Dry completely - allow 24 hours to air dry or use a leaf blower. DO NOT apply sealer to wet or even damp surfaces.
2. Apply sealer using a 1” nap roller in 2’ x 4’ sections. Anti-skid additive can be added to the sealer.
3. Apply a second coat when the first coat is no longer sticky to touch.

Refer to manufacturer’s instructions on all products used.

How do you keep stamped concrete shiny?

If a stamped surface begins to dull or lose its sheen after time, recoating with sealer will usually restore the luster. Ask the installer for recommendations of the best sealer to use.

Helpful hint: Color hardeners that are often used in the stamping process provide additional benefit by making the surface stronger and more resistant to abrasion and water penetration.

WINTER MAINTENANCE

Avoid using deicing salts on outdoor surfaces, especially during the first winter after the pavement is installed. Sealers for decorative concrete often fail in areas where deicing salts are applied or that receive drip-off from parked cars. The damage isn’t caused directly by the salts themselves, but by the freeze/thaw cycles that the salts cause.

See more on the Effects of Deicing Salts.

Related:
How to Clean a Concrete Driveway
How to Clean a Concrete Patio
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