Easy Ways to Clean Worn-Out Concrete Tiles
Whether yours are inside or outside, concrete tiles come with lots of benefits. They're robust, which means they can withstand heavy traffic. They also provide longevity, so you don't need to worry about frequent replacements.
Unfortunately, if you don't give your concrete tiles the right amount of attention, they'll lose their shine. Although their practicality will remain, they may not look as delightful as when you first installed them. Fortunately, you can tackle worn down concrete tiles with some simple tactics.
Use hydrogen peroxide to tackle organic stains
From food through to blood, organic stains can settle into concrete and refuse to budge. However, when you use hydrogen peroxide, they have no choice in the matter. Mix a substance such as unscented baby powder with 40% hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. Soak it into a microfibre cloth, then apply it directly to the stain. Allow the cloth to remain in place for an hour, then remove it. Taking this approach should remove most organic stains. If you're struggling, use fine sandpaper afterward to complement your efforts. Always remember to use hydrogen peroxide in ventilated areas only, and wear protective gloves.
Combatting mould and mildew
You're more likely to see mould and mildew on your outdoor concrete tiles than indoor ones. Sometimes it remains invisible to the human eye, but you'll recognise its presence when you start slipping at the slightest sign of rain. The commercial market features plenty of anti-mould products, so consider using one. However, if you want to use a non-chemical approach first, direct a pressure washer at your tiles. Follow your pressure washing efforts with sanding and rinse the tiles well.
Brightening soiled outdoor tiles
If you move into a property where the outdoor cement tiles didn't receive much attention, consider using bleach and a hard brush. Although it's not okay to use bleach on colourful indoor tiles due to issues with fading colours, a blend of bleach and warm water works beautifully outdoors. Mix one part of bleach with eight parts water and add it to a spray bottle. Apply liberal amounts of the spray to your outdoor tiles and brush vigorously to lift stains. Wear protective gloves to prevent the bleach from coming into contact with your skin.
Even if concrete tiles don't receive much attention, you can still try to revive them. After restoring them to their former beauty, commit to brushing and cleaning them regularly so that your efforts don't go to waste.