How to Clean Using Muriatic Acid

Muriatic acid will remove most stains out of masonry surfaces.

Muriatic acid is one of the strongest acids available that is used as a cleaner. It is commonly used to prepare masonry surfaces such as garage floors, driveways, and pools for painting. Applying muriatic acid - also known as acid washing a surface - leaves the masonry surface clean and ready for paint. After cleaning the surface with muriatic acid, you must make sure the surface is neutralized from the muriatic acid. Once the muriatic acid is successfully neutralized you can begin painting the cleaned surface.

Things You'll Need

• Cleaning gloves
• Garden hose
• Baking soda

Instructions

1. Wear cleaning gloves to safely protect your hands from coming in contact with muriatic acid. If you do touch muriatic acid, quickly wash it off with water.

2. Spray the surface that has been treated with muriatic acid clean with water from a garden hose. Spray about two minutes worth of water over the surface to be sure most of the muriatic acid is removed.

3. Spread baking soda over the surface and leave it on for around 20 minutes. Spray the surface clean with the garden hose again. The baking soda will neutralize the remaining muriatic acid, rendering it harmless. Let the surface dry for 24 hours to ensure the surface is ready for painting.

Tips & Warnings

• Muriatic acid can burn skin and clothing if it touches you. Always wear protective clothing when working with muriatic acid. When disposing of muriatic acid contact your local waste disposal company for drop off locations. Do not add baking soda to undiluted muriatic acid as it can cause a dangerous chemical reaction.

References

• Seal Krete: Etching Concrete With Muriatic or Phosphoric Acid