Oil stains on concrete are a common sight that can be caused by a variety of factors, including leaks from vehicles or machinery, spills during the handling of oil, or even buildup from food spills over time. Oil stains can be unsightly and can also pose environmental hazards. Hot water pressure washing is often touted as an effective solution for removing oil stains from concrete, but just how much of the stain can be removed depends on several factors.
Time
The longer an oil stain sits on concrete, the more difficult it is to remove. If left untreated for too long, the oil can seep into the concrete and become embedded in the pores, making it almost impossible to remove completely. It is essential to address oil stains on concrete as soon as possible to increase the chances of removing the stain successfully.
Type of Oil
Different types of oils have different chemical compositions that affect their ability to bond with concrete. For example, synthetic oils tend to bond more strongly with concrete than mineral oils. The type of oil can impact the effectiveness of pressure washing in removing the stain.
Temperature
The temperature of the concrete and the oil when spilled can both play a role in how deeply the oil can penetrate. For example, hot oil has a lower viscosity and will often seep deeper into the concrete.
Type of Concrete
The type of concrete also plays a role in how well oil stains can be removed. Smooth, non-porous concrete surfaces are typically easier to clean than rough or porous surfaces. Older concrete, which may have been exposed to more wear and tear, can also be more difficult to clean.
In conclusion, hot water pressure washing can be an effective solution for removing oil stains from concrete, but its effectiveness depends on several factors. In most cases, a professional cleaning service is necessary to ensure the best results. At Colorado Springs Pressure Washing, LLC we use high quality degreasers to help break the molecular bonds within the stain. After the degreaser has had time to work we extract the stain with high pressure wet steam up to 260*F. It is important to address oil stains on concrete promptly as they become more difficult to remove over time. To learn what we can do for you, give the pros at Colorado Springs Pressure Washing, LLC a call today! 719-256-0266
