How to Remove Rust From a Cement Driveway

Rust is a form of corrosion that slowly eats away at metal objects, causing them to weaken and become brittle. Rust occurs when water and iron are present. The reaction of the two can be devastating for the metal object and for things around it if the rust spreads. While it won't damage things concrete, it leaves an unmistakable red stain that won't simply wash away. Eliminating these ugly stains requires little more than a few materials and a little time to spare.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• White vinegar
• Push broom

1. Saturate the area with white vinegar, being sure the entire stain is covered. Do not do this in the rain or the vinegar will become too diluted to be effective.

2. Allow the stain to soak for at least an hour. If the weather is hot and the moisture starts evaporating, add more to keep the area covered in vinegar.

3. Scrub the area with a push broom or a coarse brush to remove the stain.

4. Rinse the area well with clean water. Make sure the rusty water is rinsed away from the driveway so the stain does not spread.

5. Visually inspect the area once it is dry and repeat the process if needed until the stain is gone.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep metal objects off the driveway to prevent future rust stains.
• Apple cider vinegar is an acceptable substitute for white vinegar.
• Do not use bleach to eliminate rust stains because this will only make the stain worse.

References

• How does Rust Form?
• Removing Rust From Concrete