How to Remove Oil Grease From Concrete Driveways

Removing oil and grease from a driveway can be difficult because they penetrate into the porous concrete.

Concrete stains easily because many substances can penetrate into its porous surface. Removing spills as soon as possible is essential in maintaining a clean driveway. Absorbent materials like paper towels and cloth are best for reducing the liquid content before attempting to eliminate the stain. The best way to clean most stains from concrete is with a pressure washer that introduces a detergent into the spray that breaks the bond between the stain and the concrete surface. However, in the absence of a pressure washer, there is another method for removing stains using products you may already have around the house.

Things You'll Need

• Sand, sawdust or cat litter
• Paper towels or absorbent cloth
• Engine degreaser
• Running water and hose
• Lime powder
• Mineral turpentine
• Plastic sheeting
• Broom
• Laundry detergent
• Bucket of warm water
• Stiff bristle brush

Instructions

1. Spread sand, sawdust or cat litter immediately around the spill if it is fresh to help prevent spreading. Soak up the spill with paper towel or cloth. Do not to wipe the oil into the surface. Allow the oil to absorb into the paper towel or cloth removing as much as possible before beginning treatment.

2. Pour engine degreaser liberally over the affected area and allow to soak for several hours. Do not scrub or wipe the area while soaking. Rinse with clear water and allow the area to dry thoroughly.

3. Mix a compound of lime powder and mineral turpentine, one part lime to two parts turpentine. Stir the mixture into a thick paste, then spread the compound over the spot, covering with a 1/4 inch layer. Be sure the compound overlaps the stain by at least 1/2 inch. Cover with plastic sheeting for 24 hours.

4. Scrape up the resulting powder and sweep into a container. Bring to an oil collection facility for proper handling. A second application of lime and mineral turpentine compound may be necessary. The compound will continue to draw out residue from deep within the concrete as it rises to the surface. Cover the second application with plastic sheeting for 24 hours as well.

5. Scrape lime-turpentine powder up and sweep into a container for removal to an oil collection facility. Wash the area with warm water and laundry detergent. Use a stiff bristle brush to eliminate all traces of the stain and rinse with clear water.

Tips & Warnings

• A phosphate-based cleaning product can be used to remove oil and grease from a concrete driveway if the stains are light.

• Never use a wiping or scrubbing motion to absorb liquids. This risks spreading the contaminant over a larger area or driving it deeper into the concrete surface.

References

• Cement, Concrete & Aggregates: Removing Stains from Concrete