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In Arlington summer storms arrive fast and heavy. While rain is good for lawns it often leaves driveways looking worse than before.
Many homeowners expect rain to wash concrete clean. In reality heavy rain carries dirt and debris from yards onto driveways. When the storm ends and the Texas sun comes out the water dries but the stains stay behind.
Here is how summer storm runoff affects your driveway and why these stains are hard to remove.
Mud and Silt Bake Into Concrete
During heavy storms water flows from lawns flower beds and soil areas onto the driveway. This water carries fine dirt and silt.
When the water dries it leaves behind brown or red mud stains. Concrete is porous so it absorbs dirty water easily. Once the sun heats the surface the mud bakes into the concrete.
Rinsing with a garden hose often does not work because the dirt is trapped deep inside the concrete.
Mulch Dye Leaves Dark Stains
This is very common in Arlington neighborhoods. Colored mulch in flower beds can wash onto driveways during heavy rain.
Red and black mulch contain dyes. When wet mulch sits on concrete these dyes leak out and leave dark stains. Once these stains dry they can look permanent.
Removing mulch dye safely requires proper cleaning solutions to lift the color without damaging the concrete.
Fertilizer and Lawn Chemicals Cause Rust Spots
If your lawn was treated before a storm rainwater can wash chemicals onto the driveway.
Many fertilizers contain iron. When iron mixes with water on concrete it creates small orange rust like spots. These spots often spread across the driveway surface.
These stains are chemical reactions not simple dirt. Regular pressure washing does not always remove them without special treatment.
Why Professional Driveway Cleaning Works Better
Using a hose or a small pressure washer usually spreads the stains instead of removing them. Professional driveway cleaning uses surface cleaning equipment that stays close to the concrete. This allows mud mulch dye and chemical residue to be lifted evenly from the surface. You can learn more about how experts remove driveway stains here
Gutter Overflow Makes Runoff Worse
When gutters are clogged rainwater pours straight down from the roof. This strong flow splashes mud and debris onto driveways and nearby surfaces. Keeping gutters clear helps control where storm water flows. Learn more about why gutter cleaning is important for Arlington homes here
Restore Your Driveway After Summer Storms
Texas summer storms can be rough on your home exterior. Mud and runoff stains can quickly ruin your curb appeal.
If your driveway looks stained after heavy rain contact Stegmeier Pressure Washing today. Professional cleaning can remove storm runoff stains and make your driveway look clean again.
