Handy Dandy Asphalt Parking Lot Cleaning Tips

Asphalt parking lots or driveways can be difficult to clean, and paying for a professional to do the job can cost you a lot of money! If you don’t have the budget to pay for your asphalt to be cleaned, there are several DIY options that you have.

Before you get started to make sure that you clean off the driveway by sweeping and brushing everything away. You can even rent a power washer if you want to clear the surface, but beware of power washing any stains – this can push them deeper into the asphalt.

So, how do you get your asphalt surface clean yourself? There are five different household item combinations you can use to get spots off your asphalt. The benefit of these cleaners is that they are missing the harsh chemicals most cleaning agents have, leading to a better looking and longer lasting asphalt surface. They are also safe for cats and other critters in your yard as well as kids who may use the asphalt as a makeshift play area.

1. Vinegar and Water

Vinegar is great for many things. It is fantastic when it comes to both French fries and eighth-grade volcano science projects, but when mixed with water it can also get stains off your driveway! Along with the next two options, it requires more elbow grease, but the results can be worth it if you are willing to put in the effort. The key to the next three is a strong bristle brush and some good energetic scrubbing to get the staining material to separate from the asphalt.

2. Soap and Water

A close second to vinegar and water, your regular household unscented soap (or laundry detergent) can also help you remove stains off your asphalt driveway. Grab a bucket, a rag, mix your solution and scrub away! It’s a good idea to wear disposable rubber gloves if you have them as this can be hard on the skin.

3. Baking Soda

Great for pastries and keeping your fridge clean, baking soda is also wonderful at getting stains out of asphalt surfaces. As soon as contact is made with the spill, it will absorb some of it and brush vigorously with a bristled brush can help get the stain away faster. Mix with water (but not vinegar) and leave on the stain for an hour. Wash away when you’re done, and voila!

4. Cola

We know that Coca Cola can get the rust off of metal and that it can be corrosive if you leave items in it for long periods of time. It is also, surprisingly or maybe not, amazing at removing stains off of asphalt. Pour coke on the stain, let it sit overnight, and rinse the spot in the morning. The coke will bring the stain out and your driveway will look as good as new! Just be sure to rinse it before it sits too long and becomes a sticky mess.

5. Kitty Litter

While the original purpose of this item is obvious, kitty litter is extremely absorbent and will absorb any liquid spills, locking them in for easy cleanup. Lay down the kitty litter on the stain, flatten it in, and leave overnight. In the morning, sweep it off and rinse off the spot and you should be good to go!

Stains on your asphalt are annoying, but the good news is that you don’t have to break the bank to get rid of them. These five methods of DIY asphalt stain removal will make your life easier!

If none of the above have worked it’s time to call in the big guns! There are industrial cleaners that professional Pavers such as Burnaby Blacktop have access to. If something has really made a mess and it’s too big or too tough to remove it yourself, give us a call.

As with all things Asphalt, Burnaby Blacktop can help!