Assessing Stains

• Actually, several factors have a large impact on the method of removal for motor oil stains on concrete. The first factor is the age of the stain. It is much more difficult (and sometimes impossible) to remove older motor oils stains without severely damaging the concrete. Newer stains, on the other hand, are usually relatively easy to remove. The type of concrete is also an important factor. Smoother, troweled concrete surfaces (such as those commonly used in garages) make stain removal much easier. Rougher concrete finishes (such as those commonly used in driveways) make the process much more difficult.
  
  

Removing Stains from Smooth-finish Concrete

• Relatively recent stains in any type of concrete and those found on smooth troweled concrete, can be removed fairly easily. Soak the stain and surrounding area of the stain with hot water. Apply a small amount of liquid dish detergent and scrub the region vigorously, using a nylon-bristle brush. Don't use a wire brush, as that could damage your concrete. Scrub as long as necessary to remove the stain, then blot the soapy mixture up with paper towels and throw them away. Rinse the area with hot water. Repeat as necessary to fully remove the stain.
  
  

Removing Older Stains or Stains on Rough-finish Concrete

• Scrub the area with a nylon-bristle brush, using hot water and liquid dish detergent. Sop up the soapy water and rinse the area with hot water. Repeat this process several times to remove as much of the oil stain as possible. If a stain still remains after three or four scrubbings and washings, dry the area thoroughly. Apply a stringent solvent. Paint thinner is one particularly good solvent, and there are also several acidic citrus solvents that work well. Make sure that the area is well ventilated and remember that many such solvents are highly flammable. Once you've applied the solvent, let it soak in for 30 to 45 minutes, then scrub with the nylon-bristle brush again for several minutes. Wash the area with hot water and repeat as needed until the motor oil stain is removed entirely.