How to Clean Cement With Acid

You need to periodically clean cement floors, especially in garages and work shops. Oil and dirt can impregnate the surface of the concrete and create a safety hazard. Before cleaning a floor with acid, clear it completely of any equipment so the acid that etches the floor does not harm personal machinery, belongings or equipment.

Automotive engine degreaser
Stiff bristle brush or broom
Garden hose
Muriatic acid
Garden sprayer
Shop vac
Dust mask

Instructions

- 1
  Remove any grease stains completely from the cement floor before cleaning it with acid. Use automotive engine degreaser to loosen and remove grease and oil stains. Apply the degreaser according to manufacturer's instructions, brush any oil spots with a stiff bristle floor brush, then rinse with water from a garden hose. Allow the floor to dry.
- 2
  Mix one part muriatic acid with four parts water. Pour the solution into a plastic garden sprayer. In a well-ventilated area, spray the muriatic acid solution on the cement floor. Spray a 2-by-4-foot area at a time, thoroughly wetting the surface.
- 3
  Scrub the floor with a stiff, natural bristle brush or broom. This process will clean the cement floor by etching and removing the top surface. If the area dries out as you're working it, wet it again and lightly brush the surface to remove any visible dirt or grime.
- 4
  Rinse the floor thoroughly with pure water from a garden hose. Allow the floor to dry thoroughly.
- 5
  Put on a dust mask. Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any dust before moving the equipment back into the room.

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