If you spill oil on the driveway, you might not need to schedule a pavement resurfacing appointment right away. It’s often worth it to try to remove the stain yourself and only call in a professional if you can’t get it off. Here are some tips to try.

What to Use to Get Oil Out of Pavement

1. Cat Litter

Kitty litter is an easy and inexpensive way to remove oil. Pour some over the marking and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the oil before sweeping it up and throwing it out. If you’re dealing with a larger spill, cover the area with litter an inch deep and let it sit overnight. This extra time will improve the likelihood that all the oil will be absorbed and make the cleanup much easier. 

2. Degreasers

You can also try scrubbing out stains with household degreasers, like soap. Dish soap can cut through grease to clean up after an oily meal, so it might also help with oil marks on pavement. Pour some of your favorite dish degreaser onto the oil stain and scrub it with water and a brush. If your driveway is covered in oil stains, you may also consider trying a professional engine degreaser. Mechanics turn to these products to clean their garages too, so you should try it at home to possibly avoid pavement resurfacing.

3. Soda

The bubbles and acidity from a can of soda can breakdown stains from oil and mitigate the need for pavement resurfacing. Pour a few tablespoons over a small mark or an entire can over a larger oil slick and leave it overnight. When you return, use a hose or a bucket of water to wash away the oil. Some mechanics even use this trick to get oil out of their shop clothes as well.

If you still can’t get that oil stain out, contact Guarco Construction in Hartford County, CT, to schedule pavement resurfacing. This family-owned business has been in the area since 1974, offering exterior designs with top-notch equipment and experienced technicians and contractors. Call the Granby-area company at (860) 278-5558  for an appointment or visit the website for information on their residential services.