What is Acid Washing?

Acid washing is the process of cleaning cemented orAfter cleaning the concrete surface with acid
concrete surfaces by mopping them with muiraticwashing, acid concrete stain is usually applied on the
acid or diluted hydrochloric acid. It is applied tosurface. Acid concrete stains are used to enhance
concrete surfaces in order to remove the defiantthe appearance of the surface. Staining acid wash
stains and marks.surfaces with acid concrete stains allows people to
Acid washing removes the old and dirty top layer ofget the desired colors and patterns for their concrete
plaster, concrete or other types of surfaces andsurfaces without spending large amount of cash. The
reveals fresh and clean layer of the surface fromconcrete stains are easily available in the market and
underneath. It is an ideal way of removing thosethey come in one gallon concentrate. A single gallon
stubborn stains and spots that never go away withof a concrete stain can cover floor area of about
normal washing. Acid washing is also used for cleaning700 square meters.
long ignored pools from unwanted algae, minerals thatMost of the concrete stains available in the market
get deposited overtime and stains.usually take too much time to dry, some up to 24
The process of acid washing involves applying thehours. This makes the whole process troublesome as
right quantity of the hydrochloride acid to thepeople have to wait for long before applying sealer.
concrete and wait for some time to let the acid soakBut there is a new concrete stain called Beer
into the surface. Then the treated surface is rinsedConcrete Stains is available in the market that can
with water by setting the pressure washer at aboutsolve this problem. This product is quite versatile and
3000PSI to wash off the acid. Baking soda iscan be mixed with lacquer, thinner, water, beer, wine
sprinkled on the washed surface to completelyor alcohol. When it is mixed with beer, alcohol or wine
neutralize the hydrochloride acid.it gives a unique color and look to the surface. It is
Every care should be taken by the person beforemixed with water to keep the color original. When
handling the hydrochloric acid as it can cause skinmixed with thinner or lacquer, the stain dry out
burns and it may release toxic fumes. It is importantquickly, usually in 15 minutes. The product also
to wear proper clothing and use the right gear suchprotects the concrete from the harmful effects of
as protective goggles, gloves and shoes made ofUltraviolet rays. Beer concrete stains come in
latex or rubber and breathing equipment in order todifferent colors that can be broadly categorized into
protect oneself from the harmful effects of the acid.two categories- standard and designer. Standard
One should also correctly follow the instructionscolors are best for giving the classic appearance to
prescribed on the product by the manufacturer forthe surface and designer colors are suited for more
safe and effective cleaning.modern look.