Power steering fluid leaks can leave unsightly stains on asphalt driveways and parking lots. While these stains may look bad, they can actually help preserve your asphalt. Oil-based fluids like power steering fluid help protect asphalt from sun damage and oxidation. However, you’ll still want to clean up any significant leaks to keep your driveway looking its best. Here’s how to safely remove power steering fluid from asphalt.
Steps to Remove Power Steering Fluid from Asphalt
1. Identify the Type of Asphalt
There are two main types of asphalt:
- Blacktop – This conventional asphalt is a mixture of dark aggregates like gravel and sand bound together with asphalt cement. It has a distinctive black color.
- Asphalt sealcoat – This type has a protective liquid asphalt emulsion applied on top of conventional asphalt. It is smoother and may have a colored tint.
Identifying your type of asphalt will help determine the best cleaning methods. Sealcoats can be more prone to staining.
2. Remove Excess Fluid
Before cleaning, remove any thick pools of power steering fluid with an absorbent material like kitty litter or oil absorbent powder. You want to soak up as much excess fluid as possible before applying any cleaners.
3. Choose a Degreasing Cleaner
For both blacktop and sealcoated asphalt, a degreasing cleaner designed for asphalt is your best bet for removing oil stains. Look for a product that contains sodium metasilicate, sodium hydroxide or other alkaline detergents. Some options include:
- Asphalt cleaners – Products like Driveway Kleen or Asphalt Cleaner 500 are made specifically for cleaning asphalt surfaces.
- Concrete and driveway degreasers – These heavy-duty alkaline cleaners also work well.
- Dish soap – For mild stains, a concentrated dish soap and water solution can help cut grease.
4. Scrub the Stained Area
Apply your chosen asphalt cleaner to the stain according to label directions. Use a stiff bristle brush or broom to vigorously scrub the stained asphalt. This mechanical agitation helps lift oil from the pores of the asphalt.
Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose when done scrubbing. Be sure to direct rinse water away from landscaping or grass, as the runoff will contain traces of cleaner and oil.
5. Repeat as Needed
Some stubborn power steering fluid stains may require repeat applications and scrubbing. It’s a good idea to let the asphalt dry completely before reapplying cleaner. Harsh scrubbing on wet asphalt can damage the surface.
If you’re still seeing signs of the stain after 2-3 good scrubbing sessions, move on to a more aggressive cleaner.
6. Use a Poultice for Stubborn Stains
To remove really persistent stains, create an alkaline poultice:
- Mix a cleaning product like trisodium phosphate (TSP) with an absorbent medium like kitty litter, talcum powder, or cornstarch.
- Add just enough water to form a thick paste.
- Spread the poultice paste over the stain about 1/4-inch thick.
- Allow to sit for 24 hours, keeping it moist.
- Rinse away the poultice thoroughly.
The poultice helps draw deeply set oil stains out of the asphalt. Be sure to test any poultice in an inconspicuous area first, as harsh alkalis can potentially react with the asphalt.
Helpful Tips for Removing Power Steering Fluid from Asphalt
- Act quickly to clean up leaks before the oil has time to penetrate the asphalt surface.
- Avoid any cleaners that contain acid, as they can react with components of asphalt.
- Wear gloves, eye protection and old clothes to avoid skin and eye irritation from alkaline cleaners.
- Rinse asphalt thoroughly after applying any cleaner. Residue left on the surface can cause further staining when it rains.
- Avoid excessive scrubbing or pressure washing, which can damage the top layer of the asphalt over time.
- If excessive scrubbing damages your asphalt, consider having it sealcoated again to renew the protective top layer.
With the right cleaning methods and products, you can safely remove unsightly power steering fluid spills from your asphalt driveway or parking area. Pay attention to stain removal tips to avoid damaging the asphalt surface during cleaning.