How to Treat Oil Spots on Your Asphalt Surface
Oil spots can stain the surface of your asphalt surface and even pit holes in the pavement. They’re unsightly to look at and a hassle to clean up. So how do you get rid of these pesky stains? It depends on how long the oil has been on the asphalt. In this article, we’ll outline how to get rid of oil spots that are fresh and those that have been sitting on the asphalt for a while. Keep in mind that the best way to prevent oil damage is to seal coat your asphalt driveway or parking lot as soon as possible.
Fresh Oil Spots
A fresh oil spot is simple to remove. At this point, it’s only a stain on the asphalt’s surface, able to be scrubbed away. All you need to remove it is to use some detergent and thoroughly rinse the spot with water. After removing the oil stain, you’ll want to seal coat your asphalt to prevent any more damage.
Oil Spots That Have Seeped Into Asphalt
While a fresh oil stain can be easily washed away, once it seeps into the asphalt itself you’ll have to put in more effort to get rid of it. After the oil sits on the pavement for long enough, soap and water won’t be enough to fix the problem. When asphalt absorbs oil, the binder is dissolved, and chunks or aggregate could break loose. After this happens, cracks and minor depressions in the pavement can occur.
You can use infrared heat to repair the damage to the asphalt. After doing this, be sure to seal coat. Make sure to note that infrared heat should not be used if severe pitting is observable in the asphalt. If you notice pitting, it likely means you’ll have to replace that section entirely. Which brings us to the next point.
Is It Time For New Asphalt?
Sometimes the damage from oil is extensive enough that it will soften the pavement. When this occurs, the affected area must be cut out, patched, and seal coated for future protection. Keep in mind that this will not be a cheap fix. However, in the long run it will be much less costly than having to constantly repair potholes that are common in damaged asphalt.
What We Have To Offer
Are you looking to have your asphalt driveway or parking lot resealed? You came to the right place! Pro Drive Asphalt Maintenance does work all throughout Northwest Indiana. Give us a call at (219) 324-4755, and we’ll be happy to give you a free quote for your project!