Algae, that green, slippery, moss-like substance, is a sign of a healthy environment. You’ll see it most often when you’re getting a lot of rainfall, like in the springtime, as it thrives on moisture. However, algae can be unsightly and can cause injury if someone slips on it. It can be a tough substance to get off, so today we’ll share the best ways to get algae off the concrete. On our blog, we have even more cleaning and repair tips for your concrete needs.
Pressure washing is an effective method of removing algae from concrete, but it’s not the whole story. Learn the four steps to removing algae and keeping it away for a long time with preventative measures.
- Pressure Washing – This is the first step in removing algae or other materials from concrete. While your concrete is very durable, it’s not indestructible. Tiny fibers and organisms can find their way into the porous surface of concrete, causing damage in the long run. Pressure washing is an effective way to get rid of the material and prevent further algae from growing back immediately. To get our help with concrete cleaning jobs, visit our website.
- Treating – You might choose to put a substance on your freshly-cleaned surface to help prevent further growth. This will come before any sealants. Options could include a 100% organic oxygen bleach or a liberal amount of baking soda followed by white vinegar. Make sure you choose a non-toxic solution to protect the wildlife around you.
- Sealant – Follow the cleaning products up with a concrete sealant to lock it all in. Don’t use two coats unless necessary, as too much sealant can lead to moisture problems later on.
- Maintenance – Now that you’ve made the effort to deep clean your concrete and seal it for protection, problems will arise less frequently. A regular broom cleaning will be effective most of the time.
Following these steps will get the algae gone in no time. Think you’re in need of a repair instead? Contact us for a free quote.