Cleaning Garage Floors - 3 Culprits

[rolands]

While searching the forum on this topic, I didn't find all my answers. I haven't yet started cleaning the garage floor in preparation for coating it. What is the best method to clean the following three:

1. Drywall mud / Joint compound
2. Latex-based paint
3. automobile oil

I figure that with drywall mud, I can take a taping knife, scrap it down so it's flush with the floor, then use water and a brush to remove the rest (since it's water-soluble).

With paint, I didn't know if I should use a varnish remover or something similar. I'm most afraid that if it's oil-based, I may 'burn' myself by having to later remove the oily coat.

I'm assuming automobile oil can be removed with a degreaser that the floor coating companies offer.

Thank you in advance.

 

[mhoffm911]

A good powerwasher should handle most of it.

Acid etch will take care of the rest (hopefully)

 

[04 Navi]

What he said. Power washing will take care of the mud and paint. First though use a good degreaser on the oil, before you power wash. Good luck.

 

[Hades12]

I like brake Clean for removing oil stains.

 

[dawg]

yeah brake cleaner and plenty of rags will get up the oil stains better than anything else.