How to remove oil stains from a driveway

Investing in a gorgeous new driveway is an increasingly popular way of improving the aesthetic and function of a home. Unfortunately, a large outdoor surface such as a driveway can be prone to spillages and messes that – if not treated correctly – can greatly hamper its stunning look. Take a read of this article, created by the expert team at UK Surfacings, to learn exactly how to treat oil stains on a driveway.

Immediate treatment

If oil has just been spilled, immediate treatment should be to soak the spill up with a towel or cloth. You should not rub the spillage, however, as this could cause the spill to spread over a larger area. Simply dab the area with the towel or cloth or leave the fabric on the spill to soak it up.

What are the best methods to remove oil stains from a driveway?

Before choosing a cleaning product, it is worth considering the type of driveway surface you have. The most effective way to remove an oil stain can vary depending on the material, as different surfaces absorb oil at different rates and may react differently to cleaning products.

Block paving

– As block paving is porous, oil can quickly soak into the surface and between the joints. Prompt treatment is recommended to prevent deeper staining and make removal easier.

Concrete driveways

– Concrete can absorb oil rapidly, particularly if it has not been sealed. Older stains may require multiple treatments to fully lift the oil from the surface.

Tarmac driveways

– Care should be taken when using strong cleaning chemicals on tarmac, as some products may affect the surface. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test products on a small area first.

Resin bound driveways –

Resin bound surfaces are generally easier to clean than more porous materials, but oil spills should still be treated quickly to minimise the risk of discolouration.

Before using any cleaning product, it is always advisable to check that it is suitable for your specific driveway material and to follow all safety guidance provided by the manufacturer.

Smaller stains

For thin stains that only cover a small area of driveway, you should first douse it with one of the following:

Coca Cola or Pepsi

 – the fizzy drink will actually do wonders for oil stains. This is because the acids in the beverage slowly lift the oil from the driveway. For the simplest and cheapest solution, pour some Cola or Pepsi over the stain and leave it overnight.

Detergent – a simple household cleaning item can be effective at removing grease and oil. Leave on the stain for 15-30 minutes.

Oven cleaner

 – known for tackling some of the toughest stains, we recommend pouring oven cleaner promptly on the oil spill and leaving it there for 15 minutes.

WD-40 – a great penetrator of oil, WD-40 should be splashed on the stain and left overnight.

Once you’ve chosen your desired substance and left it for the required amount of time – it’s time to scrub. First add some hot water, and scrub the stain repeatedly with a scrubbing brush.

Always ensure you’re using safety equipment and following safety precautions when using corrosive liquids such as oven cleaner. We recommend always using gloves when cleaning up oil from a driveway, regardless of the method you attempt.

Larger stains

To tackle larger, more stubborn stains, an emulsifying degreaser should be used. Splash the degreaser on the stain and let it sit for the recommended amount of time as per the manufacturing label. Once settled, scrub the stain with a stiff bristled brush. You should be wearing chemical resistant gloves and old clothing. If the stain is particularly large, you may need to kneel to reach all around. This may stain your clothes, so don’t go wearing your best stuff.

What is the most effective way to prevent oil stains on your driveway?

Accidents happen, but there are several ways to reduce the likelihood of oil stains appearing on your driveway:

• Regularly check vehicles for oil leaks.
• Place drip trays beneath vehicles showing signs of leakage.
• Clean up small spills as soon as they occur.
• Consider applying a suitable driveway sealant to help reduce oil absorption.
• Schedule routine driveway cleaning to prevent dirt and oil build-up.

Preventative maintenance can help keep your driveway looking its best for longer and reduce the need for intensive cleaning.

UK Surfacings are a South London based company offering a wide variety of surfacing services to domestic and commercial clients. Whether you need a stunning new driveway for your home or playground surfaces for a new school, we have the skills, tools and passion to provide you with the highest quality solutions in the industry. To learn more about any of the services we offer, give us a call or drop us an email today.