Prepare for Spring by Using a Rust Dissolver to Remove Concrete Patio Rust Stains

If you have some concrete that’s developed rust stains over the course of time, there’s a chance those stains could be caused by the aggregate that was used in making that concrete. Fortunately, there are some ways you can remove these stains from your concrete so you don’t have to deal with your patio looking beat up and old.

Yes, the aggregate could be the cause—there are some types of coarse and fine aggregates that have a higher iron count, which make it more likely that rust will begin to form over time. If the staining is indeed coming from those aggregates, it is likely coming from the decomposition of iron sulfide pyrite or marcasite. Even small amounts of these minerals can cause some significant staining.

Using a concrete sealer on top of exposed concrete surfaces can help to prevent these stains from forming. Of course, if they’ve already formed, you’re going to want to get rid of those stains before you start sealing the concrete. Otherwise, the stain will still be there and will be preserved as long as the sealer lasts.

Using Magica on concrete

So how do you use Magica rust remover to clean concrete that’s been affected by rust stains? Here’s a quick overview:

• Prep the area: If you’re outside, you shouldn’t have to worry about ventilation, but you should still take other steps to prep yourself and the area. Wear gloves and eye protection, as well as long-sleeved clothing. Rinse the concrete before you begin and then let it fully dry before you apply Magica.
• Apply Magica: Spray Magica rust dissolver on to the rusted area according to the instructions on the product label. Let it set for a few minutes before you proceed to the next step.
• Scrub: After the cleaner has set on the stain for a bit, giving it enough time to react with the rust and start the process of chemically breaking it down, you can start scrubbing the surface of the concrete with a stiff nylon brush. Use a circular motion to lift the stain, and once you’re sure you’ve scrubbed the area properly, you can rinse away the cleaner, as long as you get rid of all the rust and cleaner with water. Avoid leaving the cleaner on for too long before scrubbing and rinsing so you can avoid discoloring the concrete permanently.
• Power wash: If you’re having an especially hard time getting rid of some difficult rust stains, leave the cleaner on a bit longer and then use a pressure washer to rinse away the acid and provide a more intense stripping method to get the stain away from the concrete’s surface.

For more information about the various steps you should take to remove rust stains from concrete, we encourage you to get in touch with the team at Magica, Inc. today, and we’ll be happy to give you more information about the proper methods of using our rust dissolver. We look forward to speaking with you soon!