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Surfaces can often have stains caused by a variety of substances. Among those stains are oil and grease spills from vehicles, rust formations from metal items, and accidental food and beverage spills. Additionally, organic stains resulting from leaves, grass, mold, and algae growth can also contribute to the challenge of maintaining a clean surface. Efflorescence can also alter the appearance of pavers and concrete driveways/walkways. However, pressure washing and specialized cleaning agents can effectively lighten, or even remove, these stains.
Best Practices using Removal Products
Keep in mind that the effectiveness of stain removal can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the age of the stain. In some cases, severe or old stains may be challenging, or impossible, to completely eliminate. Regardless of the stain type, these practices need to be put in place.
Read the product label/instructions
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for the best results and to avoid any potential issues. This is crucial to ensure proper use of the product, dilution, and dwell time.
Use safety precautions
When working with chemicals, use protective equipment, such as gloves and eye protection, to protect you against potential skin and eye irritations.
Spot test
If possible, do a spot test in an inconspicuous area to assess the product’s performance and compatibility with the surface.
Pretreat vegetation
When using chemicals, pretreat all vegetation surrounding the area by spraying it down with water, or covering the areas before you begin to prevent any harm to the plants or grass.
Overview of Common Stains
Oil & Grease
Oil and grease stains are typically caused by spills or leaks from vehicles, machinery, or even cooking oils. When these substances come into contact with the porous surface of pavers or concrete, they can seep into the tiny spaces, creating stubborn stains. The porous nature of these materials allows the oil and grease to penetrate deeply, making the removal process challenging (and at times, impossible). Additionally, factors like weather, age of the surface, and the specific type of oil/grease can influence the intensity of the stain. Oil/grease stains can be identified in different ways, based on how old the stain is...
- Fresh stains can appear as dark spots of patches and the area might have a darker or glossy appearance.
- As the oil/grease penetrates deeper into the pores, the stain can become more prominent and spread out, creating a darker brown/black coloration, irregular shape, and greasy texture.
Rust
Oil and grease stains are typically caused by spills or leaks from vehicles, machinery, or even cooking oils. When these substances come into contact with the porous surface of pavers or concrete, they can seep into the tiny spaces, creating stubborn stains. The porous nature of these materials allows the oil and grease to penetrate deeply, making the removal process challenging (and at times, impossible). Additionally, factors like weather, age of the surface, and the specific type of oil/grease can influence the intensity of the stain. Oil/grease stains can be identified in different ways, based on how old the stain is:
- Fresh stains can appear as dark spots of patches and the area might have a darker or glossy appearance.
- As the oil/grease penetrates deeper into the pores, the stain can become more prominent and spread out, creating a darker brown/black coloration, irregular shape, and greasy texture.
Red Clay
Red clay stains are typically caused by the presence of iron oxide, a compound commonly found in clay-rich soils. When the clay soil is exposed to water or moisture, the iron oxide seeps out and forms red stains on the surface. The process of staining usually occurs when rain comes in contact with the clay-rich soil (allowing the iron oxide in the clay to dissolve and become movable) or when the water evaporates (leaving iron oxide behind and creating the characteristics of red stains). Red clay stains can be identified as a reddish-brown discoloration on the surface.
Efflorescence
Efflorescence is caused by the presence of soluble salts within the material. When water infiltrates these surfaces, it dissolves these salts, and capillary action draws the water towards the surface. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind the dissolved salts. Factors such as climate, water quality, and porosity can influence the intensity and frequency of efflorescence. While preventing efflorescence entirely can be challenging, proper curing, material selection, drainage management, sealing, and regular cleaning can help reduce its occurrence and improve the appearance of the surfaces over time. Efflorescence can be identified as a visible white, chalky stain. To test if efflorescence is present, you can wet the surface of the white stain. If the white stain is not visible when the surface is wet, it is most likely efflorescence.
Organic
Organic stains are typically caused by the presence and growth of organic materials such as leaves, grass, algae, mold, mildew, and other plant-related substances. These materials accumulate on a surface, especially in damp and shaded areas, providing a suitable environment for organic growth. As these substances decompose or release pigments, they leave behind staining. Spilled food, beverages, bird droppings, and other organic matter can contribute to the formation of stains. Organic stains can manifest in various forms and colors, depending on the type of organic material causing the stain. Some common characteristics of organic stains include:
- Green or Black Patches: Algae, mold, and mildew commonly form green or black patches on the surface. These stains usually appear in shaded or damp areas where moisture is present.
- Dark Spots or Discoloration: Leaves, grass, and decomposing organic matter can leave dark spots or areas of discoloration on the surface. These stains may vary in size and shape, depending on the amount and distribution of the organic material.
- Brown or Yellow Stains: Spilled food and beverages, along with certain plant substances, can lead to brown or yellow stains. These stains are often irregular in shape and may be more concentrated in the areas where the spill occurred.
- Irregular Patterns: Organic stains can create irregular patterns or streaks on the pavers and concrete surface, especially if the material was spread unevenly or if the organic matter was carried by water runoff.
- Fuzzy or Powdery Texture: In the case of mold and mildew, the stains might have a fuzzy or powdery texture, indicating the presence of fungal growth.
