Cleaning up pet stains and odors from cement before applying a new sealant coat requires thorough cleaning to ensure the sealant adheres properly and effectively. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Gather Supplies: Before you start, gather the necessary cleaning supplies, including rubber gloves, a stiff-bristle brush, a bucket, mild dish soap or pet stain cleaner, white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and a mop or absorbent towels.
Remove Solid Waste: If there are any solid pet waste residues on the cement, use a plastic bag or paper towel to pick them up and dispose of them properly.
Soak Up Urine: For fresh urine stains, use paper towels or a clean cloth to blot up as much liquid as possible. Place the towels on the stain and apply gentle pressure. Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain further.
Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix a solution of equal parts water and mild dish soap or a pet stain cleaner in a bucket. This solution will help remove any remaining stains and odors.
Scrub the Stains: Dip the stiff-bristle brush into the cleaning solution and scrub the stained area thoroughly. Apply enough pressure to lift the stain but avoid damaging the cement surface.
Rinse with Water: Once you've scrubbed the stains, rinse the area with clean water to remove the cleaning solution and loosened stains. You can use a hose or a bucket of water for this step.
Treat Odors: If you still notice lingering odors after rinsing, you can use either white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to neutralize the smell. Pour some vinegar or hydrogen peroxide directly onto the affected areas and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before rinsing again with water.
Baking Soda Deodorizer: Another effective way to remove odors is by sprinkling baking soda over the affected areas. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight, and then sweep or vacuum it up.
Dry Thoroughly: Allow the cleaned areas to dry completely before applying the new sealant. You can use a mop or absorbent towels to help speed up the drying process.
Apply the Sealant: Once the cement is dry, follow the instructions on the sealant product for application. Apply the sealant evenly, and make sure to cover all the areas you've cleaned.
Remember that pet stains can be particularly challenging to remove from porous surfaces like cement, so it's essential to be thorough in your cleaning efforts. By following these steps, you'll improve the chances of successfully removing stains and odors from the cement and ensure the new sealant coat adheres properly.