Your asphalt driveway offers a way to improve the overall appearance of your property. It enhances your curb appeal and can leave a good first impression when someone visits or drives through your neighborhood. When you learn how to identify and remove the most common stains, you can keep the surface well-maintained over time.

Common Types of Driveway Stains

Once you know what causes stains, it’s easier to prevent them later on. Here’s an overview of the most common marks and spots you’ll find on driveways:

• Lawn debris: Natural debris such as dirt, grass and leaves can decay and result in brownish spots.
• Mulch: Colored mulch from your landscaping can leave marks on your driveway when it’s wet.
• Oil: Oil spilled from vehicle maintenance or leaks can produce dark brown or black stains.

How to Remove Lawn Debris and Mulch Stains

Even if your driveway doesn’t have many stains, it is still beneficial to consider seasonal cleanings to ensure it maintains a fresh appearance. The maintenance can help prevent damage and extend the life span of the surface. To remove natural sorts of stains from lawn debris and mulch, follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Clear the Materials

To get started, carefully rinse the surface of your driveway using a hose. Avoid power washing for this step because the higher pressures can drive the stain from the debris or mulch deeper into the pavement.

Step 2: Apply a Solution

Apply a household cleaner to the stain. Some common options include soap, dishwashing liquid or diluted vinegar. Following the cleaning product’s instructions, you can use a brush to scrub the surface using a gentle, circular motion.

Step 3: Rinse the Surface

Use the hose to remove the soap and stain. If you’d like to use a low-pressure washing method for this step, check the nozzle settings before you begin. Follow the best safety methods and apply smooth, sweeping motions to produce a stain-free surface.

How to Remove Oil Stains

Did you accidentally spill some oil while completing maintenance on your car? Or does your vehicle have an oil leak? These spots can be more tricky to remove than natural debris and mulch stains. Follow these steps to restore the pristine appearance of your driveway.

Step 1: Absorb the Liquid

Aim to soak up as much of the oil as possible. You can use a rag or towel. Another option is applying sawdust, gravel or non-clumping cat litter on the spill. You can leave these materials to soak up the liquid overnight.

Step 2: Apply a Solution

Use a broom to sweep away the materials and throw them away. To remove the stain, try using a popular tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) method. Following the instructions on the TSP product, you can add water to create a thick paste. Apply the solution to the stain using a brush and let it sit for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Rinse the Surface

Check your pressure washing nozzle to ensure it’s on a low setting. Following the best safety practices, use a smooth, sweeping motion to rinse the cleaning product away. The result should provide a clear, stain-free driveway.

Need Any Larger Fixes or Repairs? Get a Free Quote From The Paving Lady

If you need repair services for a driveway, trust the experts at The Paving Lady. We fix asphalt driveways, roads and parking lots throughout South Florida. To get started, contact our team today!