Oil Stains On Asphalt Driveways And Parking Lots
- Posted In: Asphalt Maintenance
- Published On: March 18 2023
- Written By: Seal King
- 0 Comments
Oil spots can be a real headache for driveway or parking lot owners. Not only are they difficult to remove, but they’re also unsightly – staining asphalt surfaces or creating potholes in pavement. A seal coating treatment will protect your investment in paving by shielding it from oil spots. But what if there’s oil on asphalt?
Cleaning fresh oil slicks/stains: At this point, the oil has only stained the pavement and can be removed through surface cleaning. Other options for removing oil stains include baking soda, cat litter or even cola. However, for best results when eliminating an oil stain from concrete, combine detergent and water together before rinsing thoroughly. Older asphalt pavements offer some protection from oil due to oxidation at the surface, making it difficult for oil to penetrate the binder. Regular applications of sealcoat can help slow down oil stain penetration; however, newly sealed asphalt that hasn’t been sealed coated tends to be particularly vulnerable to oil’s destructive effects.
Once the stain has set in: Stage two oil spots may show signs of damage. The binder has been compromised, making it more vulnerable to cars driving on them and other sources of abrasion removing pieces of aggregate – this is known as raveling by paving professionals. If not addressed quickly, raveling could lead to more severe pitting and potholing issues. Raveling can also cause water to pool on pavement, which is an issue. Water that runs across asphalt’s surface and into damaged areas carries additional oil or chemicals which further contributes to their degradation.
When it’s time for fresh asphalt: Stage three oil spots involve deeper and/or greater asphalt damage. The patching products used in stage two spots no longer work, leaving contractors with two options depending on the extent and severity of the damage. Minor asphalt damage can usually be repaired with a planer grinder or milling machine. The second, more laborious option involves sawing away at the affected area and applying new asphalt. This eliminates all visible oil spots on the asphalt section. Unfortunately, this method is more time-consuming and costly than simply milling away at it.
The best way to safeguard against weathering and degradation: Sealcoating your pavement can protect it against oil damage. Seal King offers pavement repair and seal coating services throughout Minnesota, Iowa, and parts of Wisconsin. We are happy to answer any queries about pavement maintenance or provide a quote.
