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The clogged cement on the surface of your newly-done driveways badly impacts the overall beauty, making it a bit messy too. It becomes necessary to remove the cement to restore the genuine beauty of the driveway in such a case.
But cement is notorious for being a strong and durable material that forms a strong bond with surfaces, making it challenging to remove once it has hardened. In order to effectively remove cement from a driveway, it is crucial to use the right tools and techniques. Read this in-detailed guide to learn the in-detailed process for removing cement.
Tips Before Starting Removing Cement
Determine the Cement Type.
Different types of cement may require different removal methods. Cement with additives or high-strength mix may need a more aggressive approach to remove, while relatively fresh cement can be removed easily using a pressure washer or scraper.
Moreover, we can use different chemicals that vary depending on the cement type; concrete on masonry requires phosphoric acid, while limestone-based cement needs sulphuric acid.
Knowing the type of cement used can help you determine the best approach for removal.
Follow All the Safety Rules.
Removing cement is potentially hazardous, so taking proper safety precautions is essential. This includes wearing protective clothing, gloves, eyewear, and respiratory protection if necessary. It’s also important to be aware of any electrical wires or gas lines present and avoid damaging them during removal.
The risk of injury or accidents can be minimised by following these safety measures. So, before starting the cement removal process, take the necessary precautions to stay safe.
Methods of Removing Cement from Driveways
Let’s discuss some methods for removing concrete spills or mortar from the driveways.
Use Wire Brush
The first approach should be using a wire brush with some elbow grease to remove cement from the driveway. This removes a significant amount of the cement stain before resorting to stronger chemical cleaners. You can also use hot water and a wire brush to remove the weaker mortar solutions.
Using a wire brush as a first step enables us to reduce the number of harsh chemicals needed to fully remove the cement stain. This can be vital for minimising the environmental impact of the cleaning process and reducing potential harm to nearby plants, animals, and water sources.
Apply Muriatic Acid Solution
To use muriatic acid to remove cement from a driveway, first, dilute the acid in clean water in a bucket. It’s essential to wear rubber gloves and protective equipment when handling muriatic acid.
- Apply the solution you just created directly to the affected area. You can use a scrub or stiff brush to properly apply the cleaner to the surface.
- After applying the acid solution, let it sit on the surface for a few minutes to break down the cement.
Handling muriatic acid cautiously is crucial, as it is a powerful chemical that can cause skin irritation and other health hazards if not used properly. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take proper safety precautions when working with muriatic acid.
Use Pressure Washer
A pressure washer can effectively remove stains and cement from the surface of a driveway or other paved area. Pressure washing uses high-pressure water to blast away dirt, grime, and other debris, making it a powerful method for cleaning tough stains and cement residues.
- Choose the Right Nozzle: Select a high-pressure nozzle suitable for removing tough cement stains.
- Use the Pressure Washer: Move the pressure washer back and forth over the stained area at a 45-degree angle, keeping the nozzle at a consistent distance from the surface.
- Rinse the Surface: After removing the cement, rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining debris or cleaning solution.
Note: Using a pressure washer to remove the cement from the driveway surface may not be a good idea, but it’s ideal for removing the dust and loosening the cement.
Try Lime Film Remover
You can also use the lime film remover, a more aggressive chemical than muriatic solution, to remove the cement. But, use appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eyewear, when using this chemical, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
Follow these steps to use lime film remover to remove cement from a driveway surface:
- Purchase Lime Film Remover.
- Mix half a litre of the chemical with every 5 litres of water in a bucket.
- Wet the area of the driveway surface you wish to clean with a garden hose.
- Apply the solution to the wet area using a scrub brush to avoid exposing bare skin to the cleaner.
- Leave the solution on the surface for around 5 minutes to allow it to work and break down the cement.
- After 5 minutes, rinse the solution from the driveway surface with clean water and sweep away any remaining dirt or debris.
Call the Professionals to Remove the Cement
Up to this point, the cement spills should have been removed if you had followed these simple methods. Suppose some cement remains are still on the driveway, or if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself. In such a case, it’s suggested to call experts.
At Switch Groundworks, our professional workers and engineers have the expertise to carefully remove the cement while protecting the driveway. We have the experience and equipment to safely and effectively remove the cement. Call our team today!
