Understanding the Impact of Oil Stains on your Asphalt

28-28-2024

What are oil stains? Well, Oil stains are dark, discoloured patches on surfaces caused by the spillage or leakage of oil or petroleum-based substances. These stains are commonly found on driveways, garage floors, parking lots, and roadways, wherever the vehicle may leak oil or other fluids.

Oil stains possess a tenacity that defies mere superficial removal. This often requires diligent efforts to restore the surface to its former glory.

Now to answer the Second Question: What are Asphalt Driveways?

Asphalt driveways are most commonly seen driveways due to their affordability, durable nature, and easy installation. They’ll perform much like a concrete highway but at a much lower cost. They are made from asphalt, a mixture of aggregates (such as sand, gravel or crushed stone) and liquid. A liquid asphalt is a sticky black substance which is used for binding.

Have you noticed dark, unsightly patches on your driveway and wondered what they are? Are these really Oil stains? Let’s first start with the basics- what are oil stains? Well, they are dark, discoloured patches on surfaces caused by the spillage or leakage of oil or petroleum-based substances. These stains are commonly found on driveways, garage floors, parking lots, and roadways, wherever the vehicle may leak oil or other fluids.

Oil stains possess a tenacity that defies mere superficial removal. This often requires diligent efforts to restore the surface to its former glory.

We all are fond of Asphalt driveways due to their affordability, durability, and ease of installation. However, their porous nature makes them susceptible to oil stains, which can penetrate and weaken the surface if not addressed promptly.

In this blog, we’ll help you understand the impact of oil stains on the Asphalt driveway and some practical solutions to removing oil stains from your driveway.

Impact of Oil stains on your Asphalt Driveway

Oil stains pose a formidable threat to both the structural integrity and visual appeal of your driveway, which could include the following:

Structural damage

The oil gradually eats away at the surface of your driveway over time, weakening it from the inside out. You eventually begin to notice holes, cracks, and other deterioration indicators. Although it’s a slow process, the strength and longevity of your driveway is slowly declining.

Discoloration

Discoloration refers to the change in color or pigmentation of a surface, substance, or material. Discoloration happens due to oxidation, chemical reaction and environmental exposure. Asphalt is a porous material, meaning it has small openings that allows substance like oil or grease to enter into its surface.

Slippery surface

Oil has a naturally slippery nature, which can create hazardous conditions when it comes into contact with surfaces like asphalt driveways. The oil residue reduces the friction which can make the surface potentially dangerous for pedestrians and vehicles.

How to Remove Oil Stains from your Asphalt Driveway: A Scientific Approach

Here’s a scientific, five step-process for effectively removing oil stains from your driveway:

• Surface analysis: Begin the process by assessing the extent of the oil stain and its penetration into the asphalt surface. This can help determine the most suitable removal method, as it is the first step it is required for you to perform it with utmost caution.

• Chemical Selection: Search for a solvent or degreaser that’s tough on oil stains but gentle on your asphalt. You should choose the products which are packed with surfactants or enzymes which enable them to work their magic and dissolve the oily spots.

• Application: Now that you’ve chosen the solvent or degreaser, you’ve got to apply it over the stain, and you’ve got to make sure that you don’t leave any area that is defective.

• Agitation and Rinse: You would require a stiff brush for this step and scrub it firmly into the treated area to help the solvent penetrate the asphalt and lift the oil. Then you need to rinse all over that treated area with water to remove dissolved oil and residue.

• Evaluation and prevention: You’ve to make an assessment and see whether the process has thoroughly worked and if it hasn’t you’d have to go through it again.

You may also implement strategies to prevent future oil stains which are listed down below:

• Drip Pans

• Prompt Cleanup

• Regular Maintenance

• Absorbent Materials

• Sealants

• Parking Alternatives

Now let’s delve into the solution:Hipposeal

Here at Hipposeal, we are dedicated to offering superior services at affordable rates, we ensure that every one of our customers receives the best value for the money they have invested. As a local company rooted in Dalton, PA, our commitment could extend service within a 100-mile radius of our headquarters at PA 18414(PA 89015). Our team takes pride in delivering quality workmanship and exceptional customer service. Over the years we were enabled to align several of our customer’s interests which not only helped them or us but also benefited society as a whole. We execute every project with precision and expertise. Our team is dedicated to delivering results on time. Whether you’re dealing with oil stains, cracks, or other driveway imperfections, you can rely on us to provide efficient solutions

Experience the difference with Hipposeal – your trusted partner in driveway protection and maintenance.