Asphalt is meant to be long-lasting and durable, but weather and traffic can take its toll, especially with the constant changes in temperature and weight load. However, following these steps to cleaning your asphalt driveway can make it look almost brand new. We’ve prepared a helpful guide on cleaning your asphalt paving. Not to mention this will spruce up your driveway and is also a cost-effective way to maintain it as well.

Here are some things that you will need:

  • Water
  • Bucket
  • A long-handled brush
  • Rubber gloves
  • Hose
  • Eye Protection

Also please be sure that when you are working with chemical products to read the labels and take care to observe the warning on the tags. Wear eye protection and gloves to protect yourself.

Powdered Detergent

Laundry detergent is an affordable and accessible option to remove any oil stain from asphalt paving. Sprinkle the laundry detergent powder on the area that you want to clean, pour a little bit of water to moisten the powder, and leave it alone for a few minutes to allow the detergent to set. Scrub the area hard with a brush and then rinse the asphalt off with a hose.

Baking Soda

Like laundry detergent, baking soda can be used on small oil stains. Dampen the area with water and generously apply baking soda to the area that you want to clean. Rub it in with a hard bristle brush. Let it sit for around 30 minutes, and then rinse the asphalt pavement off with water.

Dish Soap

Dish soap is made to clean off dirt and grime on dishes, so why wouldn’t it work on pavement as well? Squirt some on the stain, add some water and leave it for a few minutes to allow the oil to lift. Scrub the area, and then wash it off with water.

Bleach

If none of the methods above worked, try bleach. Use caution when using bleach as it can become very unstable and dangerous when mixed with ammonium-based cleaners. Make sure the asphalt is thoroughly washed off first, and your cleaning products are safe to use. Put some bleach in the affected area and scrub out the remaining spots with a brush. Wear proper protection and some old clothes that you won’t mind getting dirty.