How to Clean and Seal Interior Concrete Floors

Concrete floors can start to show stains and wear.

Concrete is used by many home and property owners to beautify and enhance indoor areas, but after time and heavy use, the concrete is prone to wear and tear from foot traffic. This leads to a dirty or discolored staining to the concrete's top surface, leading many to clean the concrete floors and seal them for protection. Doing so can be a worthwhile project for do-it-yourselfers.

Things You'll Need

• Broom
• Alkaline-based degreaser
• Power washer
• Mop (optional)
• Acid- or citrus-based chemical wash
• Handheld sprayer (optional)
• Acrylic concrete cure

Instructions

1. Sweep the area thoroughly with a broom to remove dust, grit or soil. Depending on the area you'll be cleaning/sealing, a large push-broom may be more effective in covering larger areas.

2. Prepare the degreaser according to manufacturer's directions if you're cleaning oil-based stains. Generously apply the degreaser to the stains, and allow the cleaner to sit for 15 minutes to up to an hour. Close all doors leading to the room you're cleaning. After waiting time expires, use a power washer to blast away the degreaser -- taking care to get no closer than 12 inches, to avoid wearing away the concrete surface . Repeat the steps as necessary. When satisfied, brush the water into a drain; if there isn't one, use dry mops to soak up the water.

3. Apply the acid- or citrus-based chemical cleaner as directed if you're cleaning a paint-based stain. These types of chemical agents are generally applied by spraying, so you may need to purchase a handheld sprayer if one isn't included with your purchased product. Soak the stains for several hours before using the power washer to clean and rinse the area.

4. Allow the concrete plenty of time to dry. Visibly inspect all areas of the concrete, and do touch tests to make sure the concrete is fully dry. The chemical sealant will not cure properly if it comes into contact with excess moisture.

5. Apply the sealant with the sprayer, if one isn't included with your product. Spray until the area is fully coated; you'll be able to gauge your progress by the bluish coloration that disappears when it is dry. Wait exactly one week following the sealant's application then apply one final coat to finish the job.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to remove any remnants of any previously applied sealants prior to applying the new sealant; otherwise, the new product will not cure properly and will result in splotching when dry.

References

• The Concrete Network: Caring for Concrete Floors
• "Home Improvement 1-2-3"; John Holms; 2003

Resources

• The Concrete Network: Comparison Chart of Concrete Sealers