Our clients are getting fresh asphalt laid, seal coats applied, they are taking care of their surfaces. So what happens when one of those unsightly stains pop up? Welcome back to the Sunrise Asphalt blog, this time we’re going to talk to you about a complaint we see crop up from time to time, how to remove oil stains from asphalt driveways, a DIY guide!

Whether the leak is a new one or has had some time to stick, there are a few tricks you can attempt to rid you asphalt driveway of that oily mark.

How to Remove Oil Stains from Asphalt Driveway

If the oil is fresh and there is excess, start by using something to cover up and absorb it. Things like cornstarch, cornmeal, baking soda, or cat litter can all be used to absorb that excess. Leave it covered up overnight, sweep it up and move on to the next steps.

Dish Soap

Those ads are to be believed, turns out dish soap can do some heavy duty lifting! Treat the oil stained asphalt just like a stubborn casserole. Put the soap directly onto the oil stain, add water, and get scrubbing! Rinse clean with the hose.

Powdered Laundry Detergent

If you want to use powdered laundry detergent you’ll go about it just like dish soap, cleaning up the excess with kitty litter, or other absorbent material (you can use a rag if you prefer) then apply powder, add water, and scrub. Let the stain sit for about half an hour before you wipe it clean.

Baking Soda

Generously (as in a good amount, not with a smile, but you can be nice about it too if you like) sprinkle baking soda across the stain and scrub with your favorite stiff brush. Let sit for half an hour and rinse with the hose.

Simple Green

Simple Green is a heavy duty, but environmentally friendly industrial cleaning product. Their range of industrial cleaners and degreasers can do the trick. If you have access to a pressure washer they even offer a concentrate for it that can take the stains from your driveway but not harm plants, lawns, or trees!

Now, these should all work just fine if it’s a fresh stain, but if it lingers any longer don’t hesitate to give it another go or two. Sometimes it can take a lot of work to get those stains out, other times the best you can hope for is the stain lightning.

If all else fails, you can always hire a professional cleaner to do it for you.

If the asphalt is in need of more than just a simple stain cleaning, but a full-blown repair, then reach out to us here at Sunrise Asphalt! Our family-owned business has been serving Tucson for almost 40 years and we would be happy to help give you the asphalt driveway, parking lot, or stretch of road you desire. Get a free estimate and see just what Sunrise can do for you!