Orange and brown rust stains on your concrete, siding, or stone aren't just ugly — they're stubborn. Regular pressure washing won't remove them because rust is a chemical stain, not surface dirt. Those stains come from iron-rich well water, fertilizer runoff, metal furniture, sprinkler heads, rebar bleeding through concrete, or Central Kentucky's limestone-rich water leaving iron oxide deposits. I'm Mike Inman with Inman ProWash, and I specialize in rust stain removal in Lexington using professional-grade products that actually work.
I use oxalic acid-based and specialty rust removal chemicals that are specifically formulated to dissolve iron oxide stains without damaging the underlying surface. This is not something you can handle with bleach or a consumer rust remover from the hardware store — those products aren't strong enough for exterior stains and can actually set the stain permanently if used incorrectly. I apply the correct product for the surface type — concrete, brick, stone, vinyl siding, Hardie board, pavers, stucco — let it dwell to dissolve the iron deposits, and then rinse clean. Some heavy stains require multiple applications.
On job day, I assess the stain source so I can recommend how to prevent recurrence. If your sprinkler system is spraying iron-rich water on your driveway, the stains will come back unless you address the source. If rusting rebar is bleeding through your concrete, I'll let you know. If fertilizer is the culprit, I'll explain how to apply it without staining your hardscapes. I treat the stain and give you the information to keep it from returning.
Rust removal in Lexington typically costs $100 to $300, depending on the number of stains, their size, the surface type, and how deep the iron has penetrated. A few small sprinkler stains on a driveway are a quick job. Widespread staining across a large surface takes more product and more time. I quote every job individually after seeing the stains.
Rust stains won't go away on their own — they actually get worse over time as the iron continues to oxidize. The longer you wait, the deeper the stain penetrates and the harder it becomes to remove completely. I've been doing this since 2009, carry $2 million in insurance, hold an A+ BBB rating, and have 226 five-star Google reviews from Lexington property owners.
Common Questions About Rust Removal
What causes rust stains on concrete? The most common causes in Lexington are irrigation water with high iron content, fertilizer granules that contain iron, metal patio furniture sitting on wet concrete, battery acid, and rebar or wire mesh bleeding through aging concrete. Central Kentucky's water is naturally mineral-rich, which contributes to the problem.
Can rust stains be completely removed? Most rust stains can be removed completely or reduced to the point where they're barely visible. Very old stains that have penetrated deep into porous concrete or stone may leave a faint shadow, but the improvement is always dramatic. I'll give you honest expectations during the estimate.
Will the stains come back? If the source of the iron isn't addressed, yes. That's why I identify the cause during my visit and recommend solutions — adjusting sprinkler heads, switching fertilizer products, placing pads under metal furniture, or sealing the concrete to resist future staining.
Is the rust removal product safe for my landscaping? I take precautions to protect surrounding plants and grass. I pre-soak landscaping, contain runoff where possible, and rinse thoroughly after treatment. The products I use are professional-grade and I follow all safety and application guidelines.
