How to Avoid Oil and Grease Stains on Concrete

By Abby Hall

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Choosing to work on your own vehicle when it needs the oil changed or there is a problem can save you a lot of money over taking it to a mechanic or dealership to get fixed or serviced. However, doing so often creates a problem as oil and grease comes out of the vehicle and is deposited on your concrete providing a stain that can last forever. You can take steps to reduce this problem by learning how to avoid oil and grease stains on concrete.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Step1
When at the automotive store purchasing oil or other parts you need for your vehicle in order to service or work on it, you should also purchase drip pans. These are pans that go under your car to provide a place for any type of liquid to drain out without getting on your concrete. Most people use these when they change their oil since a large amount of oil will come out of the vehicle's engine area. Of course it is important that if you choose to use drip pans you determine what to do with the excess oil, grease, gas or other fluids that may be in the pan.
Step2
Should your vehicle simply be slowly leaking as it sits in your driveway or garage, you can avoid getting oil and grease stains on the concrete by placing a piece of cardboard underneath the vehicle. Cardboard is thick enough to absorb the oil, grease or other liquid without absorbing through to the cement and yet it is flexible enough for you to drive over. While you don't necessarily have to use a piece that is so large it covers the entire floor of your garage, you may find that it needs to cover at least the width of your car to catch all the leaks. Remember to change the cardboard periodically to ensure that it doesn't become saturated and ineffective.
Step3
Of course if you do get stains of oil or grease on your concrete there are ways to remove them. You should wipe up a spill as soon as it occurs. However, if you have a stain that has been in your driveway or garage for a long period of time, you should pour kitty litter over the area. It will soak up all the oil and grease in the stain, although this may take awhile. However, once it has completed you can simply sweep it up and dispose of it. Your driveway or garage should now be free of oil and grease stains.

Tips & Warnings

  • Many national mechanic chains allow you to bring in your old oil and recycle it at their center. Check with your local one to see if they allow you to do this.
  • Do not use wood in step 2. It is too dangerous for your vehicle to drive over since it can cause damage to your tires.

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eHow Article: How to Avoid Oil and Grease Stains on Concrete

Article By: Abby Hall

Abby Hall

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Category: Home & Garden

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