If you have a concrete loading dock in the back of your business' building, you undoubtedly enjoy the benefits it provides when shipping or receiving goods. Over time, concrete can become discolored from normal wear and tear. The porous tendency of this medium will collect oil or gas dripping from vehicles, dirt via scrape marks from dollies or skids, and miscellaneous debris during the process of moving wares to or from a truck. To make your concrete loading dock look inviting to your visitors, try some of the following cleaning steps to keep the area sanitary.

Prepare The Area

Tend to your loading dock on a day where you are sure there are no deliveries being made. Move any pieces of equipment or vehicles from the loading dock so the concrete is completely exposed for cleaning. Sweep the entire surface of the concrete slab using a push broom to collect any bigger pieces of debris from the loading dock. This debris can then be thrown away. 

Pre-treat Stained Areas

Before adding a cleaning agent to your concrete loading dock, pre-treat stains so they are easier to remove. This can be done by sprinkling baking soda over areas where grease, oil, or discolored spots are present. Allow the baking soda to sit for several minutes as it will soak up moisture from the concrete surface. Pour some white vinegar over the baking soda. An effervescing effect will be present. This will help lift the stain when you scrub the area with a cleaning agent.

Add An Appropriate Cleanser

You can use a professional-grade concrete cleaning agent to remove stains from your loading dock, if desired. If you would rather, make a cleaning solution of your own from a gallon of water, 1/2 cup each of borax and washing soda, and a tablespoon of liquid dish soap. Apply the solution to the concrete using a mop. Areas with stains should be scrubbed with a soft-bristled scrub brush. This will help get the cleanser into the pitted areas of the concrete, effectively removing debris from these areas as a result.

Rinse Your Loading Dock

After you have washed down the loading dock in its entirety, use a high-powered pressure washer to remove all the soap from the surface. If you do not have access to a pressure washer, dip your mop into a bucket of clean water and use it to sop up the soap from the surface. Repeat a few times to remove all soap residue with clean water.

To learn more, contact a concrete company like Hi-Grade Materials Co. 

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