Concrete is like a sponge. When oil drips from a car, it soaks in fast. The sooner you treat a stain, the better your chances of getting it out.
For fresh spills
Cover the spot right away with cat litter, baking soda, or cornstarch. Let it sit for a few hours to soak up the oil, then sweep it up. Don't rinse it with water first. That just spreads the oil around.
For older stains
- Scrub with a stiff brush and dish soap or a concrete degreaser
- Let the degreaser sit for 15 to 20 minutes
- Scrub again and rinse with a hose
- Repeat 2 or 3 times for dark stains
Why hot water works better
Oil breaks down much faster with hot water. Most home pressure washers only use cold water, so they push the dirt around but leave the oil behind. Our trucks heat the water to about 200 degrees, which lifts far more of the stain.
Be careful with home pressure washers
Holding the wand too close can etch lines into your concrete. Keep the tip at least a foot away, and keep it moving. A round surface cleaner gives an even clean with no stripes.
Prevent new stains
Put a drip mat under any car that leaks, and get the leak fixed. Sealing your driveway every few years also helps keep stains from soaking in.
Want it done for you?
Our driveway cleaning includes hot water, a degreaser on oil spots, and a surface cleaner for a clean, even finish. Use our price estimate to see what it costs.
