How To Remove Motor Oil From Concrete Garage Floor

How to Remove Motor Oil From Concrete Garage Floor

Motor oil spills on concrete garage floors are a common occurrence, but they don't have to be permanent. With the right tools and techniques, you can remove motor oil from concrete and restore your garage floor to its original condition.

Materials You'll Need:

* Kitty litter or absorbent cloths * Degreaser (commercial or homemade) * Stiff brush or broom * Pressure washer (optional) * Concrete cleaner * Water

Step 1: Absorb the Excess Oil

* Sprinkle kitty litter or place absorbent cloths over the oil spill. * Allow the absorbent material to soak up as much oil as possible for at least 30 minutes. * Remove the absorbent material and discard it properly.

Step 2: Apply Degreaser

* Apply a commercial degreaser or make your own by mixing 1 cup of dish soap with 1 gallon of hot water. * Pour the degreaser onto the spill and allow it to sit for 15-30 minutes.

Step 3: Scrub the Area

* Use a stiff brush or broom to scrub the degreaser into the concrete. * Focus on the area where the oil is most concentrated. * Rinse the area with clean water.

Step 4: Use a Pressure Washer (Optional)

* If the oil stain is particularly stubborn, you can use a pressure washer to remove it. * Hold the pressure washer nozzle about 6 inches from the concrete and spray it at a 45-degree angle. * Be careful not to use too much pressure, as it can damage the concrete.

Step 5: Clean the Concrete

* Apply a concrete cleaner to the entire garage floor. * Use a brush or broom to scrub the cleaner into the concrete. * Rinse the floor thoroughly with clean water.

Tips:

* Act quickly to prevent the oil from setting into the concrete. * Test the degreaser on an inconspicuous area of the floor first to ensure it does not damage the concrete. * If the oil spill is large or has been there for a long time, it may be necessary to repeat the process several times. * Wear gloves and eye protection when handling degreasers and cleaning solutions. * Dispose of all used materials properly to avoid contamination.