As a property owner, maintaining the appearance and functionality of your commercial asphalt parking lot is crucial for attracting customers and ensuring its longevity. However, one common issue that can greatly impact the attractiveness and durability of an asphalt parking lot is oil stains. These stubborn marks not only create a dirty and unappealing look but also pose potential safety hazards for both drivers and pedestrians.
Oil spills left unattended can cause significant damage to the surface of your asphalt and, if allowed to seep into the crevices, can negatively affect the entire structure of your asphalt. Regular inspection and maintenance can prevent further damage and address the problem before it becomes a costly accident.
In this blog post, we will discuss effective techniques for removing oil stains from commercial asphalt parking lots as well as preventative measures to avoid future damage. With these tips in hand, you can protect your investment and keep your parking lot looking clean and inviting for years to come.
The Enemy Within: Understanding Oil Stains
Oil stains can be successfully removed if the proper techniques and products are used. Parking lots are prone to spills and stains from motor oil, transmission fluids, coolants, brake fluids, grease, and even unknown substances.
Identifying the substance can help make clean-up more efficient. Motor oil is black or dark brown in colour while coolant can be yellow, orange, or green. Transmission fluid is reddish-brown.
Battle Strategy: Choosing the Right Removal Method
When it comes to oil spills and stains, immediate action is the best recourse. It is important to prevent the oil from seeping through cracks and crevices in the asphalt. As oil spills and stains can be the result of various sources, there are different removal methods recommended for a positive outcome.
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Absorbent Materials (Kitty Litter & Baking Soda):
Using traditional absorbent materials such as kitty litter and/or baking soda may work for fresh oil spills. These materials will help absorb the oil before it hardens and becomes a stain.
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Degreasers:
Formulated with a combination of different chemicals, degreasers require safe and proper handling to prevent damaging the surrounding asphalt surface. Degreasers will break down oil to lift away stains on the surface of the asphalt surface and from deep within the crevices.
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Commercial Oil Stain Remover:
Oil stains can be removed by most commercial degreasers. For an effective, and environmentally friendly removal, choose an oil stain remover specially formulated for asphalt surfaces.
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Hot Water Pressure Washing:
The high force of hot water combined with professional power washing equipment can effectively remove oil spills and stains. If used incorrectly, however, you risk damaging the asphalt, so consider hiring a certified power washing service.
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Professional Cleaning Services:
As oil stains and spills can be difficult to remove, especially once the fluid has settled into the asphalt, hiring a professional cleaning service is recommended. Asphalt cleaning services use high-performance equipment and solutions that protect the surface.
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Replacing Damaged Asphalt:
Asphalt repairs should be conducted immediately to protect the integrity of the surrounding asphalt. This will also help to lower the risk of further damage that might require a complete replacement of the parking lot.
Oil Stain Removal Methods – Comparison
| Method | Effectiveness | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Absorbent Materials (kitty litter, baking soda) | Mild to moderate stains | Readily available, inexpensive | Time-consuming, limited effectiveness for deeper stains |
| Degreasers | Moderate stains | Fast-acting, can break down oil | Harsh chemicals, requires proper handling and disposal, may damage asphalt if not used correctly |
| Commercial Oil Stain Remover | Moderate to heavy stains | Formulated for asphalt, often safer and more effective than degreasers | May require multiple applications for stubborn stains |
| Hot Water Pressure Washing | Heavy stains (with caution) | Effective for removing thick oil deposits | Requires professional equipment and a skilled operator, high pressure can damage asphalt |
| Professional Cleaning Services | All stain severities | Efficient, thorough cleaning, eco-friendly options | Higher cost compared to DIY methods |
Arm Yourself with Knowledge: Preventing Oil Stains
Here’s how to prevent oil stains on your commercial property.
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Regular Maintenance:
Conduct routine inspections of your asphalt property and take note of any spills or stains on the ground. Maintaining a clean parking lot involves sweeping, washing, and removing litter on a regular basis.
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Sealcoating:
Sealcoating is considered the best defense against environmental factors, including oil spills. As a preventive measure, sealcoating provides a protective barrier for the asphalt so that harmful fluids can’t seep into the asphalt pavement.
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Designated Parking Areas:
Allocate specific parking spots for vehicles prone to leaks or for machinery that is used for exterior work. Accidents happen even when all precautions are taken. Limiting the risks of oil spills can save you time and money.
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Spill Response Kits:
A spill response kit contains the materials, products, and equipment needed to clean a fresh oil spill safely and effectively. This will not only protect the asphalt but also the general public as the spill can be quickly contained and controlled.
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Signage:
Knowledge is power and when it comes to oil spills, quick attention and cleanup can save the asphalt. Having signs posted throughout the parking lot and at places such as loading docks, where oil spills can occur, can help protect the pavement. Signs should clearly remind motorists to report any spills immediately.
Protect Your Commercial Asphalt Property with the Help of Sure-Seal!
Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. provides professional oil stain removal services and expert advice for maintaining your asphalt parking lots. Our safe and environment-friendly products and techniques will restore and protect your property from damage caused by stubborn oil stains.
Call us today at (416) 410-3705, email info@suresealpavement.com, or use our form to schedule a free onsite consultation to see how our services can extend the life of your asphalt.