How to Cleanup Oil Spills and Leaks
PHILADELPHIA, PA, September 26, 2019 /Neptune100/ — Sometimes cars leak fluid because they are old, sometimes homeowners spill oil while filling up cars, lawn mowers or snow blowers. The oil then stains the driveway and is unsightly and also bad for the environment. There are several techniques to get rid of oil stains on driveways though.
Removing Oil Stains from Driveway
First it should be determined if the stain is wet or dry. If the stain is wet, then it should be covered with cat litter, cornstarch, basking soda, or cornmeal. All of these items will help to absorb the moisture. Once the stain is dry, the stain should be made wet again with water. The stain should then be scrubbed with a stiff brush and a paste made from water and baking soda. After scrubbing the stain everything should be rinsed and the left to air dry.
If the stain is on concrete, the stain should be doused in spray lubricant and then rinsed with water. Another method would be using engine degreaser on the stain, then scrubbing it with a wire brush and covering with cat litter.
Remove Transmission Fluid Stains from Driveway
Transmission fluid will leave bright red stains on lighter colored pavement. It is suggested to spray stain completely with oven cleaner and let sit for 10 minutes before rinsing off with a hose at its highest pressure. If the stain remains repeat the process.
Remove Gasoline Stains from Driveway
Gasoline does not only stain pavement but will also leave an odor. Homeowners should use protective gear when dealing with gasoline stains.
The stain should be covered with cat litter, basking soda, or a commercial absorbent. The oil filled absorbent should be swept into an empty coffee can with the lid sealed. The coffee can with the oil filled absorbent should be disposed of properly. The stain should then be scrubbed with dish washing detergent and water. The mixture should be allowed to soak into the stain for a few minutes before being rinsed off.
If that process does not work then it is suggested to buy trisodium phosphate, mixing it with warm water and scrubbing the stain with it until the stain lightens.
If an oil spill occurs within the home, the electricity and natural gas should be turned off immediately and professionals should be called in to take care of the situation.
About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.
