Independence Day is quickly approaching, and many households will celebrate the day by lighting off fireworks. Unfortunately, the sulfur and black powder in fireworks can leave marks behind on many of the surfaces that the fireworks are lit off of and that the ash lands on. Here are some of the most common surfaces that fireworks may land on and whether you can remove the stains left behind by fireworks.
Concrete
If you are lighting fireworks off a concrete driveway or sidewalk, you may see black stains where the fireworks were lit. Unfortunately, the black powder in fireworks can permanently stain light surfaces, such as concrete. As such, it is recommended that you use a piece of water-soaked plywood or another cover over your concrete before lighting off fireworks. However, if it is too late for that, you may be able to lift some of the staining by using a mixture of three parts water to one part bleach and letting it soak into the stain. From there, pressure washing may help to lift more of the stain.
Asphalt
If you are lighting fireworks off in the street, the sulfur in the fireworks may leave behind white or yellow stains. Most stains left behind by fireworks on asphalt will fade over time thanks to sun exposure and outdoor elements, such as rain. If you want the stains removed faster, scrubbing dish soap into the stains may help to lessen the appearance of the stains, as can pressure washing the area.
Cars
Ash and sparks that fly off of fireworks can land on cars and cause damage. If the sparks are still hot, they can actually burn the paint off the car, and in that case, you may need touch-up care from an auto body shop. Ash flying around can leave stains behind, especially on light cars. Parking your car in the garage or placing a protective cover over your car is highly recommended. If this is not an option, wipe ash off of your car right away to prevent the ash from leaving a stain behind. Pressure washing may help to lift stains if ash is not wiped away quickly.
Home Siding
Home siding can stain thanks to ash and sparks from fireworks. Just like with cars, the sparks can actually melt paint on your siding, so it is best to ensure all fireworks are done away from your home. If ash lands on your home, a professional pressure washing company can use the right cleaning chemicals based on the type of siding you have, in conjunction with power washing, to remove any stains and debris.
Pressure washing, also commonly referred to as power washing, is one of the best ways to remove as much of the staining and discoloration that fireworks can leave behind from concrete, asphalt, cars and home siding. The sooner you are able to treat stains and have the surface power washed, the better your results will be. At Griff’s Services, we offer pressure washing services, cleaning a variety of surfaces around your home. Reach out to us and let us get your home surfaces looking their best.
