Cleaning and Maintaining Concrete and Epoxy Surfaces

Spring is an ideal time to clean commercial concrete and epoxy surfaces, from exterior walkways, ramps, and steps to interior floors, loading docks, and more. In most cases, winter weather causes chemicals, dirt, and water to be tracked onto the surface. Properly cleaning these areas will not only improve the aesthetics of the surface but also help maintain its slip resistance and lead to fewer problems in the future.

Epoxy Surface Maintenance Do’s and Don’ts

• DO: Clean the surface regularly using a soft-bristle broom or vacuum for dry debris and damp mop with mild detergent.
• DO: Inspect the surface regularly for damage like cracks, chips, or peeling. Document these issues with the description and date – or better yet with a photo – and address these issues as quickly as possible.
• DON’T: Never drag heavy equipment or anything that can easily scratch the surface of the epoxy.
• DON’T: Do not use cleaning products with harsh chemicals like ammonia or bleach unless the installer or manufacturer has approved. Avoid vinegar or citrus-based cleaners. Never use steel wool or abrasive scrubbing pads. These all can damage and dull epoxy coating.
• DO: Refer to the installer or manufacturer’s guidelines and/or warranty. Be sure to follow these instructions and cleaning schedule to protect the warranty’s coverage.

Concrete Surface Maintenance Do’s and Don’ts

• DO: Regularly sweep the surface to remove debris and dust. This will prevent excess build-up.
• DO: Perform a thorough inspection to look for stains, mold, and dirt build-up. Note any cracks, spalling, pitting, or other damage. Remember, the Americans with Disabilities Act defines a trip hazard as any vertical change over ¼ inch or more at any joint or crack. These are major liabilities, so they need to be addressed as soon as possible. Set up a warning sign or cone near the hazard, if necessary.
• DON’T: Do not ignore spills. Concrete is porous so any chemical or material that is spilled on the surface will absorb into the concrete. Depending on the spill, this can lead to stains but more importantly, internal damage to the concrete base.
• DON’T: Don’t assume a one-size-fits-all cleaner will work for all stains. For oil and grease stains, the most popular choice is a power washer and hot water. For stubborn stains, an alkaline degreaser can help. For rust stains, cleaners with oxalic acid can be effective.
• DO: Always check with your installer or manufacturer on the approved cleaning products before using them on your concrete surface. And of course, when working with chemical cleaners, always wear the proper personal protective equipment required.