Asphalt and concrete hardscapes are great foundations for outdoor spaces around your home. However, if you’ve had them for some time, you probably know they need to be cleaned. Asphalt and concrete require special cleaning techniques, according to the experts at Beausoleil and Sons in Providence County, RI, but by following a few easy tricks, you can make the finish look brand-new.

Over time, untreated stains can deteriorate asphalt and concrete, so address them when they occur. Before doing anything, it’s important to sweep the area thoroughly so it’s clear of debris. Then, try one of the following methods to clean your concrete or asphalt paving:

• Cola: Cleaning your patio or driveway doesn’t always require a trip to the hardware store. If you have an extra bottle of soda sitting around, pour it over the stains. The acids in cola soft drinks safely break down the compounds in grease and other materials, making it effortless to wash away. Let the soda sit overnight, and in the morning, wash the area with a hose.
• Baking Soda: Another great around-the-house cleaner for asphalt and concrete stains is baking soda. Cover the stain completely and let it sit for half an hour to an hour. The spill should wash away easily with a hose. You can also add bleach to the mix for a deeper clean.
• Trisodium Phosphate: For heavy-duty jobs, turn to industrial paving cleaners. Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is a powerful cleaning agent when it’s mixed with bleach. Pour TSP over the stains and brush vigorously with a broom or scrubber. Then, cover with bleach and repeat. Once you’ve scrubbed out the stains, wash with a hose. Always take the proper safety measures when using these chemicals, or hire a professional cleaning service to avoid direct contact.

If you need to have new concrete or asphalt poured, turn to Beausoleil and Sons for friendly, professional assistance. Serving clients in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts for over 40 years, they offer comprehensive commercial and residential construction services and paving. Call (401) 632-0203 today to schedule a free consultation, and visit their website for more information on their qualifications. You can also connect with them on Facebook for more household construction tips.