HarborGemHow to get oil stains out of your driveway, and how pressure washing helps
Oil soaks into concrete quickly. Here is what you can try yourself, and when a professional wash makes sense.
Why oil is so hard to remove
Concrete is porous, so oil seeps into it instead of sitting on top. Oil also does not mix with water, which is why a basic garden hose rarely makes a difference. The fresher the stain, the better your chances.
Small, fresh stains
- Soak up the excess right away with an absorbent such as cat litter
- Apply a concrete-safe degreaser and let it sit for the time the product directs
- Scrub with a stiff brush, then rinse well
Larger or older stains
For bigger spots, tire marks and general grime, pressure washing with a degreaser can loosen the oil residue and flush out what is trapped near the surface. A spinning surface cleaner helps even out the results across a larger area so you do not end up with stripes.
What to expect
Pressure washing is not a magic eraser. Deep, older stains may lighten rather than disappear completely, and an honest answer is better than a promise. The sooner a spill is dealt with, the better the result.
When to call a professional
Too much pressure or the wrong technique can etch or damage worn or cracked concrete. A professional can also take care of the algae, tire marks and dirt that built up around the stain. Send us a photo and we will tell you what to expect. See our driveway and concrete cleaning page for more.