Leaky vehicles are the bane of driveways and parking lots. Brake fluid, engine oil, and transmission fluid dripping from parked vehicles can leave unsightly stains that can also dissolve the pavement over time. Below are some suggestions on how to remove these stains and protect your driveway.

3 Ways to Remove Oil Stains from Asphalt & Concrete

1. Fresh Stains 

Fresh oil spots are the easiest to treat. It takes time for the oil to deeply penetrate the pavement, so if you catch the stain in time, it may still be close to the surface. Simply wipe the excess oil away with a towel. Next, scrub the area with detergent. Cat litter and baking soda can act as a possible detergent since they’re both absorbent and will draw the oil out. Rinse the detergent and any remaining oil away with a hose. You may have to repeat the scrubbing procedure a second or third time to remove all signs of the stain. For best results, apply a sealant on top of the cleaned surface. 

2. Old Stains

The corrosive chemicals in many automotive fluids will start dissolving asphalt bonds over time. This results in cracking and pitting in addition to the stain. To treat this issue, asphalt contractors use infrared road repair. They spot clean the area, remove any loose material, and use infrared technology to heat the area to about 325 degrees Fahrenheit. The asphalt softens and contractors add a rejuvenator to create a seamless surface. Seal coating should be applied to protect the area.

3. Repaving

Eventually, oil stains will cause such a breakdown of the pavement that repaving is necessary. Contractors will cut out the damaged areas and replace them with new pavement. This step requires considerable work, but it guards you against liability in case of a trip-and-fall injury.

If your driveway needs some repair, contact Pacific Asphalt & Maintenance, a residential and commercial paving contractor in Kahului, HI, for oil spot treatment and more. They have served clients throughout Maui for more than 25 years and specialize in all types of asphalt and concrete repair and maintenance. Visit their website or call (808) 244-4555 to request a free quote.