Understanding Oil Stains

Oil stains generally result from a car, machine, or other object dripping or spilling oil. The oil is, in effect, absorbed into the pores in the asphalt, which cannot be easily cleaned out. The longer one waits, the more difficult it becomes to eliminate the discoloration.

How to Determine the Extent of a Stain

Before you start washing off an oil stain asphalt, you have to assess its density. A small stain may only need a quick wipe; compared to a large or an old stain, it may take much more than just wiping.

Collecting the Essentials

To remove oil stains from asphalt, you will need the following materials:

– Broom or brush

– Paper towels or a clean piece of old clothing/rag

– Dish soap or degreaser

– Warm water

– Baking soda or cornstarch

– Kitty litter or sand

– Pressure washer or garden hose

– Plastic scraper

– Protective gloves

Preparing the Area

If you want to eliminate the oil stain, you must clear up the work space. Free the space of any foreign objects, like leaves or dirt.

Absorbing the Oil

The first thing required to disengage oil on any surface is to wipe to absorb it as much as possible. The oil can sometimes be wiped with a broom or brush. Then, merely dab the stained area with paper or an old cloth to absorb and remove as much oil as possible.

Using Baking Soda or Cornstarch

It is recommended to then cover the stained area with as much baking soda or cornstarch as possible. These products will assist in soaking up the remaining oil and emulsifying the stain. Allow baking soda or cornstarch to work its magic for hours or overnight. If you decide to go with cornstarch, you may have to reapply it regularly for better efficiency.

Using Kitty Litter or Sand

In addition, for more prominent stains, you can also use kitty litter or sand to soak up the oil. Sprinkle the kitty litter or sand over the oil stain and allow it to sit for some time, for instance several hours. You may have to reapply – similar to using cornstarch.

Scouring the Stain

After you feel like you have soaked up as much oil as possible, it is time to begin scrubbing. Prepare a solution of warm water with dish soap or degreasing solution. Dunk a brush or sponge into the solution, soak it, and vigorously wash the dirty area. If the stain is persistent, it might be necessary to step up the force exerted or leave the solution on the soiled area for a few minutes before continuing with the scrubbing.

Scraping the Stain

If the oil stain remains visible after scrubbing, a plastic scraper can help to clean the residue. Try to do so without causing harm to the asphalt in the parking lot.

Rinsing the Stain

Once you have scraped, then use the water pressure from a garden hose or pressure washer rinse. When doing this, ensure that the heat you are applying is low so as not to harm the asphalt.

Refilling the Stain

If the stain has not come clean by the above-mentioned process, repeat the steps again.

Preventive Measures

To avoid future oil stains on your asphalt, take these preventive measures:

– Check your car daily for any signs of leakage and have the issues rectified as soon as possible.

– When doing simple maintenance activities such as an oil change, ensure there is plywood or some other protective layer beneath your car.

– Use specific items for oil disposal and retrieval, such as newspapers, cardboards, or asphalt mats.