Have you discovered mold on your Jacksonville, FL property’s concrete surfaces? When you find this unwanted growth on concrete, it’s sure to make you frustrated. After all, it’s the first sign of an invasion, and if this invasion isn’t prevented, mold could spread across your property like wildfire. Because of this, you should learn how to remove mold from concrete—and one of the best ways to do this is with pressure washing.
In this blog, we’ll teach you how to remove mold from concrete with the pressure washing process. It’s a somewhat intensive process, but you can do it! (And remember, if you choose not to, the pros at Ehrman’s Pressure Washing can handle this work for you.)
Time and Energy Commitment
First, let’s make something clear. If you want to learn how to remove mold from concrete, you’ll need to give yourself enough time for the work. Getting rid of mold isn’t a small chore that you can complete in a few minutes. Chances are, it will require hours of your time to finish this work. So, you’ll need to find an appropriate opening in your weekly calendar.
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure you are well-rested before learning how to remove mold from concrete. You must be attentive and exercise caution when using pressure washing equipment; otherwise, you could potentially injure yourself with pressurized water.
Required Pressure Washing Tools
So, what exactly will you need for the project? We’ve included a bulleted list for your convenience. Read through, see which items you already own, and figure out which ones you’ll need to buy/order:
- Pressure Washer. This device, which connects to a water source and pressurizes the water, is absolutely essential for the pressure washing process.
- Spray Applicator and Sodium Hypochlorite. Using this powerful cleaning solution, you’ll be able to kill mold and more easily remove it.
- Stiff-Bristle Brush. Use this brush to disturb large patches of mold instead of solely relying on jets of pressurized water.
- N95 Respirator. The last thing you want is a lungful of mold spores. Always wear a respirator to protect your respiratory system.
- Other Safety Items. Be sure to also wear gloves, goggles, full-length pants, and closed-toe shoes when handling pressure washing equipment.
Preparing the Area For Pressure Washing
Once you’ve acquired all the necessary equipment for learning how to remove mold from concrete, you need to prepare the area for cleaning. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure any items (e.g., cars, potted plants, toys, outdoor furniture, and decorations) are removed from the area. Why? To prevent them from getting in the way of your work, first of all. Plus, you protect them from being damaged by pressurized water this way.
You should also consider sweeping the concrete surface before pressure washing it. By doing so, you’ll remove any large pieces of debris that could be launched by pressurized water. This could prevent pebbles and other similar items from flying through windows and windshields.
Applying Sodium Hypochlorite to Concrete
At this point, it’s time to start disturbing and removing mold. Bear in mind that mold can (and will) release spores during this work. So make sure you are wearing your protective gear during your project. It’s absolutely necessary to use a respirator; this ensures that you do not inhale any spores that could hurt your throat or lungs.
Using your spray applicator, put a thin layer of sodium hypochlorite on the concrete’s surface. Then, wait fifteen minutes for the mold to be broken down. This will kill the mold, making it much easier to remove. Sodium hypochlorite is 100% eco-friendly and will decompose without causing any harm to the environment.
Brushing Concrete to Weaken Mold
Now, use a stiff-bristle brush to target patches of mold on your concrete. The stiff-bristle brush will weaken mold’s hold on concrete, even reaching into pores. Be thorough because the more intrusive you are during this stage of the work, the easier it will be to remove all mold via pressure washing.
After brushing, it’s time to move on to the main act: concrete pressure washing.
Removing Mold From Concrete
You’ll want to use an appropriate amount of water pressure when pressure washing your concrete. Use a water pressure setting of 3,000 to 3,500 PSI; this ensures that your concrete is safely and effectively cleaned.
We recommend washing your concrete in a simple, row-by-row formation. This makes it easy to keep track of what you’ve already pressure washed and what still needs your attention. Of course, there will also be the visual difference. As you rinse away mold, your concrete will be much brighter and more beautiful.
If you find yourself struggling to wash away mold at any point, you may want to try a second round of chemical treatment. Apply another layer of sodium hypochlorite and wait fifteen more minutes before pressure washing the area again. You should have everything you need to eliminate all mold and make the concrete stunning!
Challenges of DIY Concrete Mold Removal
Learning how to remove mold from concrete is tough. You’ll have to spend your time and energy getting acquainted with the equipment and the process. You’ll also have to protect yourself from mold spores during your work. Because of these challenges, you may feel intimidated by the pressure washing process.
Don’t worry because you don’t have to do the work on your own! You can always reach out to Ehrman’s Pressure Washing. Our professionals know how to remove mold from concrete and will lend you their expertise. That way, you can avoid the DIY process entirely.
Get Started With Ehrman’s Pressure Washing
Ehrman’s Pressure Washing is ready to remove mold from your concrete, and for a fair price, too. Please contact us online with information about your project, and we will get back to you as soon as possible with a free estimate. Then, you can choose a time and date for your appointment. Let’s make your concrete spotless again!
