How To Remove Oil Stains From Concrete

Oil stains on concrete are a typical nuisance in garages, driveways, and patios. Cars usually leak a bit of oil, and the dark spots can be unattractive. Fresh stains are relatively easy to clean, however, dealing with older stains can be very difficult. That’s why it is essential to act quickly. 

This guide will show you how to remove oil from concrete using some simple steps. You will find easy cleans for fresh stains, stronger solutions for old ones, as well as some recommendations to help keep your concrete looking clean.

Why Oil Stains Stick to Concrete

Although concrete seems solid, it is porous. Porous means there are tiny holes allowing oil to quickly soak into the concrete. Once oil seeps into the small holes, it does not just sit on the surface, but instead, it sinks into the concrete, making it nearly impossible to clean off.

Surface stains are generally lighter and can be cleaned by scrubbing. Deep stains will require stronger cleaners and or cleaning methods. The same challenge may happen with other difficult stains, such as when you try to remove paint from concrete, Oil and paint stay in these little openings, making oil stains and paint stains ‘stick’ to concrete more than other surfaces.

Easy Ways for New Oil Stains

New oil spots are much easier to address than old oil stains because, if done quickly enough, you stop the oil from sinking too far into the concrete. There are a few easy methods.

1. Absorb the Spill

As soon as you see the oil spill, cover it with kitty litter, cornstarch, or baking soda. These will soak up the oil that is sitting on the surface. Leave it on for a few hours and then sweep up the absorption.

2. Scrub with Dish Soap and Hot Water after Absorption

Then, pour a few drops of dish soap on the space, hot water, and scrub the place with a stiff scrub brush or a broom. Dish soap will break down the oil and help create lift off the concrete.

3. Rinse the Area and Repeat as Needed

Rinse the area thoroughly with water. Sometimes the stain will begin to soften with the first application. Other times, it may take a couple of tries, while either will get you better results and no more oil stains. 

Cleaning Tips for Old Oil Stains on Concrete Surfaces

Removing an old stain is more difficult than removing a fresh stain. The oil has soaked down into the surface, so you will need to step up the methods to get it out. Here are a few options:

1. A poultice

A poultice is made from a paste of baking soda and some water. Spread the paste over the stain, and let it sit and absorb for several hours. This mixture draws the oil up out of the concrete. This is a good starting point for how to remove old oil stains from concrete.

2. A commercial cleaner

For some stubborn stains, you can use an actual grease remover. For some more difficult stains, you can additionally use a grease remover. A grease remover is made to lift oil from concrete. It works better than baking soda paste because it can soak in more deeply.

 Just make sure to follow the directions on the product label. Just follow the directions on the product label for best results.

3. Heavy-duty: degreaser

If that still doesn’t work and you need a bit of a stronger cleaner, a professional-grade degreaser is an option. Degreasers are strong cleaners made for tough, set-in stains. They may need some scrubbing. You might also have to repeat the process for the best results.

Oil Stain on Cement Removal with Pressure Washing

Using a pressure washer is one of the best ways to remove tough stains from concrete surfaces. Here’s a guide on how to do it:

The Power of a Pressure Washer

• A pressure washer forces water out at an incredibly high pressure to help dislodge oil that has set into a surface.
• This technique will be much faster and more efficient than just scrubbing.

Using the Correct Cleaner

• Using a pressure washer detergent will help achieve optimal results.
• The detergent releases the oil and loosens it, making the cleaning occur much more easily.

How to Pressure Wash Cement Surfaces

•  In advance, apply the detergent, pre-cleaning, or mild cleaner to the area.
• Immerse the affected area with a steady back-and-forth motion.
• Flush the area with clean water, thoroughly rinsing oil and cleaner out of the surface.

Dealing with Tough Stains and Professional Help

• No matter how often it’s cleaned, some stains never go away.
• Professionals use stronger professional-grade cleaners at a deeper level.
• They can even seal concrete to help eliminate new stains from becoming problematic.
• Professional assistance shortens the time and stress of taking on a large project
• Like removing mold from concrete, using professionals usually always yields the best results.

Preventing Future Oil Stains

The most effective means of not having to go through the process of removing oil stains from concrete again is to stop them before they start. You can stop future problems by sealing the concrete so the oil will not soak in so quickly.

 The difference is actually being proactive and cleaning up spills immediately. Quick action and simple maintenance will keep your garage or driveway cleaner for long periods of time.

Conclusion

Oil stains may make concrete appear old and dirty, but they can be removed. With prompt action, the right cleaners, and professional services if needed, you can keep your surfaces looking new. A small effort can save you from larger cleaning jobs in the future.
Bring back the fresh look of your concrete with Pressure King’s expert cleaning services. Call today and let us handle the tough stains for you!

Frequently Asked Question