|
Beware of Patio Grime!
Have you ever glanced down and seen the green film on your pavers, the grease shadows under the grill, and the chalky haze on the furniture? Patio grime isn’t just ugly; it’s slippery, stubborn, and perfectly timed to crash your gatherings. Here’s how to beat it—DIY style—without wrecking your surfaces or your weekend. Start with a smart sweep. Dry debris acts like sandpaper when you wash, so brush leaves, grit, and cobwebs off concrete, pavers, and railings. Move furniture onto a tarp, then pre-rinse everything with a garden hose to spot what you’re honestly dealing with: Algae (green), mildew (black specks), rust (orange), and plain old grease. Match the cleaner to the material. For everyday dirt on concrete or pavers, mix a bucket of warm water with a squirt of dish soap and a cup of oxygen bleach, such as sodium percarbonate. It’s color-safe, plant-friendly, and great for organic surfaces. For wood or composite decks, use a deck-specific cleaner and a soft brush—avoid using stiff bristles that can raise the grain. For metal and plastic furniture, the dish soap mix usually wins; follow with a white vinegar rinse to cut water spots. Cushion covers? Check the tags first; many require a gentle cycle with cold water and an extra rinse. If they’re not removable, sponge clean with the soapy mixture and air-dry thoroughly before storing. Clean, clean, clean, rinse, rinse, rinse, and inspect. After drying, spend more time on stubborn areas. Protect what grows—and you. Pre-wet nearby plants, work in the shade, and rinse thoroughly when you’re done so residues don’t sit on leaves. Wear gloves and eye protection. Never mix chemicals (especially bleach and ammonia) and keep shoes with good tread on—algae is slick. Plug tools into a GFCI outlet and keep cords clear of areas with moisture. After the patio dries, consider applying a breathable sealer to concrete or pavers to slow down stains and make the following application easier. Wipe grill areas with a degreaser and lay a grill mat to catch drips. And when the sitting-outside season is over, store away any cushions from harsh winter weather. When you need specialized, professional cleaning help, such as for your carpet, hard floors, furniture, or any other area, do the right thing. Call your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
Call Now for a Free Quote!
|
RSS Feed
|
Would you like to get your own OutPost Site? Cleaning and restoration firms who are MarketingZoo.com members get
|
CleaningOutpost.com Directory of Cleaning & Restoration Businesses is a service offered by MarketingZoo.com
Copyright 2015 Thinkshortcut Publishing, LLC
Copyright 2015 Thinkshortcut Publishing, LLC