Few things ruin the look of a driveway faster than an oil stains. Whether it’s from a parked car, a quick spill during an oil change, or a visiting vehicle, those dark spots can be stubborn and unsightly. Left untreated, oil can seep deeper into the surface, weaken it over time, and make the stain even harder to remove.
The good news is that you can tackle most oil stains using safe, effective methods that will not damage your driveway’s finish — and you probably already have some of the supplies at home.
Prevent Lasting Damage by Treating Oil Stains Early
Oil stains do more than spoil your driveway’s appearance. Over time, oil can soften asphalt binders or seep into the pores of concrete, weakening the surface and shortening its lifespan. The sooner you treat the stain, the easier it is to remove and the better you protect your pavement.
Step-by-Step Methods to Safely Remove Oil Stains
1. Use Baking Soda or Kitty Litter for Fresh Spills
If the stain is new, sprinkle baking soda or clay-based kitty litter over the spill. Let it sit for several hours, or overnight, to absorb the oil. Sweep it up and repeat if necessary before moving on to cleaning.
2. Dish Soap and Warm Water
For light to moderate stains, apply a few drops of grease-cutting dish soap directly to the spot. Scrub gently with a stiff-bristle brush (avoid wire brushes that can scratch the surface). Rinse with warm water, working from the edges toward the centre to keep the stain from spreading.
3. Use a Commercial Oil Stain Remover
Choose a driveway-safe degreaser designed for asphalt or concrete. Follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully, and test a small area first to ensure it won’t lighten or damage the surface.
What NOT to Do
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or solvents that can strip asphalt binders or etch concrete. High-pressure washing can also cause surface damage if used too aggressively, especially on older pavement.
Preventing Future Oil Stains
- Place drip pans or mats under vehicles that may leak oil.
- Seal your driveway regularly to create a protective barrier against spills.
- Address vehicle leaks promptly to prevent repeat staining.
Keep Your Driveway Looking Like New
Nortown Paving transforms driveways marked by oil stains, cracks, and wear into strong, attractive surfaces that last. If your driveway is showing signs of damage, our team can restore its durability and curb appeal with expert paving, asphalt sealcoating, and repair services designed to protect it for years to come.
Contact Nortown Paving today for an inspection and get your driveway back in top shape.
