To effectively clean concrete surfaces using Purple Power, you will prepare the area, dilute the product, apply it to the pre-wetted concrete, allow it to work, and then thoroughly rinse the surface. This powerful degreaser is excellent for tackling oil, grease, and grime on driveways, garage floors, and patios when used correctly.
Understanding Purple Power and Concrete Cleaning
Purple Power is a concentrated, heavy-duty degreaser and cleaner known for its effectiveness on tough stains. Concrete, being a porous material, can easily absorb spills like oil, grease, and dirt, making it challenging to clean. Using Purple Power, specifically formulated to break down these types of contaminants, can restore your concrete's appearance.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Concrete with Purple Power
Achieving a clean concrete surface involves more than just spraying the product. Follow these steps for optimal results and safety.
1. Preparation and Safety First
Before you begin, ensure the area is ready and you are protected.
- Clear the Area: Remove any furniture, vehicles, or loose debris from the concrete surface. Sweep away dirt, leaves, and loose particles.
- Protect Surrounding Areas: Purple Power is powerful and should avoid plastic and painted surfaces. Cover nearby plants, shrubs, and any painted walls, doors, or plastic fixtures with tarps or plastic sheeting to prevent damage.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection (safety glasses or goggles), and appropriate clothing to protect your skin. Good ventilation is also advised, especially in enclosed spaces like garages.
2. Diluting Purple Power
The concentration of Purple Power needed depends on the severity of the stains. The product can be used full-strength for extremely tough stains, but for most applications, dilution is recommended.
Mix up to 5 parts water with 1 part product. For general cleaning, a 1:1 to 1:3 ratio (product to water) is often sufficient, while tougher stains might require a stronger mix or even undiluted product.
Here's a quick guide to dilution ratios:
| Stain Severity | Purple Power : Water Ratio | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Light Grime | 1 : 5 | General dirt, light stains |
| Moderate Stains | 1 : 3 - 1 : 4 | Everyday spills, light oil |
| Heavy Grease/Oil | 1 : 1 - 1 : 2 | Automotive fluid spills, stubborn grime |
| Extremely Tough Stains | Undiluted (1:0) | Deeply set oil stains, very thick grease |
Always start with a less concentrated solution and increase strength if necessary.
3. Pre-wetting the Surface
Wet down surface and surrounding area with water from a garden hose. This crucial step prevents the cleaner from drying too quickly and helps it penetrate the concrete pores more effectively. It also helps to prevent streaking and ensures the cleaner doesn't absorb too deeply into dry concrete.
4. Applying the Cleaner
Once the surface is wet and the product is diluted, it's time to apply.
- Spray product over entire area to be cleaned using a pump sprayer for even distribution. Avoid applying it to plastic and painted surfaces as directed.
- Work in manageable sections, especially on large areas, to ensure the product doesn't dry out before you can scrub and rinse.
5. Agitation and Dwell Time
After applying, allow the cleaner to work its magic.
- Agitation: For best results, use a stiff-bristle brush, a deck brush, or a push broom to scrub the treated concrete vigorously. This helps loosen and lift embedded dirt, oil, and grease.
- Dwell Time: Let the Purple Power sit on the concrete for 5-15 minutes, allowing it to penetrate and break down the stains. Do not let it dry on the surface; re-wet with a light mist of water if necessary to keep it active.
6. Rinsing Thoroughly
The final step is to rinse away the cleaner and loosened debris.
- Rinse Completely: Rinse the entire area thoroughly with a strong stream of water from a garden hose or a pressure washer. Ensure all traces of the cleaner and loosened contaminants are removed. Residual cleaner can leave a film or cause the concrete to become slippery.
- Direct Runoff: Try to direct the runoff away from storm drains, plants, and sensitive areas, especially if you used a strong concentration. Check local regulations for disposing of cleaning wastewater.
Tips for Stubborn Stains and Best Results
- Repeat Application: For deeply embedded or extremely stubborn stains, you might need to repeat the application and scrubbing process.
- Hot Water: Using hot water for dilution can sometimes enhance the cleaning power, especially for greasy stains.
- Pressure Washer Integration: While not explicitly mentioned in the core instructions, a pressure washer can significantly improve results, especially for large areas or deeply ingrained stains. Always use appropriate pressure settings to avoid damaging the concrete.
- Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before widespread application, especially on new or decorative concrete, always test Purple Power in a small, hidden spot to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration or damage.
- Ventilation: When cleaning indoors, ensure adequate ventilation by opening garage doors or windows.
By following these steps, you can effectively use Purple Power to clean and rejuvenate your concrete surfaces, removing tough stains and grime.
