Wherever there are vehicles, you can expect oil stains to follow. They often occur on driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, and garage floors and can be incredibly difficult to remove.
Whether caused by gasoline, transmission fluid, motor oil, or another substance, oil stains are a common concern for both residential and commercial properties. In addition to looking unsightly and lowering curb appeal, oil stains can create a slippery surface and potentially lead to property damage.
That’s where pressure washing comes in. As one of the most effective solutions for oil stains, professional pressure washing is an invaluable tool for homeowners and businesses alike. Keep reading to learn more about the challenges of oil stains and how pressure washing can help you remove them.
Why Oil Stains Are Difficult to Remove
Oil stains are among the most difficult to remove because oil is hydrophobic. This means it can’t be washed away with just water. Additionally, concrete and asphalt are porous, allowing oil to seep deep inside. The result is a stain that just won’t go away, no matter how hard you scrub. This is especially true for old stains — the longer an oil stain sits, the harder it is to remove.
DIY Methods vs. Professional Solutions
So, you’ve noticed an oil stain on your concrete or asphalt. If the stain is fresh or surface-level, you can try DIY cleaning methods using household materials like baking soda, kitty litter, dish soap, degreasers, and good old-fashioned elbow grease. However, these methods can be labor-intensive and are often ineffective on older or deeper stains.
Professional pressure washing is a much more effective way to remove oil stains from your concrete or asphalt surface. The high water pressure penetrates porous surfaces, and the use of specialized degreasers and detergents breaks down oil more effectively. Plus, professionals can facilitate the safe disposal of contaminated runoff water, so you don’t have to worry about negative environmental effects.
The Professional Pressure Washing Process
Now that you know why pressure washing is the best option for oil stains on your property, let’s take a closer look at the professional pressure washing process, which includes:
- Assessment of stain and surface type: First, the technician will assess the surface type and the age and severity of the stain. Different situations will require different treatments, water pressures, and cleaning solutions.
- Pretreatment with eco-friendly degreasers: Next comes the pretreatment stage. Eco-friendly degreasers help to break down the oil before pressure washing.
- Pressure washing: Using the perfect pressure level to avoid damage, the technician will then wash the surface. In some cases, power washing will be used, incorporating hot water and steam to enhance stain removal.
- Rinsing and post-treatment: Finally, any residue will be removed for a clean finish. Some pressure washing companies provide sealing services to help prevent future staining.
Benefits of Professional Oil Stain Removal
Curb appeal is a big deal for both homes and businesses. Opting for professional pressure washing is an excellent way to restore your property’s appearance, removing not only oil stains but also dirt and debris that has built up over time.
Additionally, professional oil stain removal reduces liability from slippery surfaces, which is essential for commercial spaces. You don’t want to have to deal with the slip-and-fall injuries that can result from an ill-maintained parking lot or walkway.
Finally, professional pressure washing can extend the lifespan of your exterior surfaces. Staying on top of maintenance can save you money long-term by minimizing the need for repairs, replacement, or resurfacing. It’s an investment that’s sure to pay off in the long run.
Preventing Future Oil Stains
Like with all maintenance issues, it’s best to prevent oil stains before they happen. Consider applying sealants to driveways and parking lots — if a spill or leak occurs, it will be much easier to clean. Address vehicle leaks promptly before they have the chance to cause serious damage. Seek regular pressure washing services to keep everything clean and prevent stains from sitting for too long.
Why Choose City Wash?
If you’re dealing with stubborn oil stains on your concrete or asphalt, turn to the experts at City Wash. We have extensive experience removing all kinds of stains from outdoor surfaces by using advanced pressure washing techniques. Our highly trained technicians will get your property sparkling clean without causing damage or harming the environment.
Contact us today to request a quote and get started!
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