Oil spots on your parking lot can be more than just an eyesore. They are a common issue for asphalt surfaces, but if left untreated, they can lead to significant and costly damage. If you’ve noticed oil spots accumulating in your parking lot, you may be wondering what you can do to fix the problem. Let’s dive into how oil affects asphalt and what solutions are available.
How Oil Damages Asphalt
Asphalt surfaces are made up of a mix of aggregates and a binder that holds everything together. When oil leaks onto the asphalt, it begins to soak in and dissolve this binder, effectively weakening the structure of your pavement. The more time the oil remains untreated, the deeper it penetrates, causing the asphalt to lose its integrity. This results in soft, brittle areas that can crack, crumble, and eventually lead to potholes.
Can Oil Spots Be Cleaned?
In minor cases, oil spots can be cleaned off the surface of the asphalt using degreasers or power washing. However, even if the visible oil is removed, the bulk of the damage has often already occurred beneath the surface. The oil continues to break down the binder deep within the pavement, which means cleaning is only a partial solution.
Sealcoating Over Oil Spots
Many property owners opt for sealcoating to give their parking lot a fresh look and protect it from the elements. While sealcoating is a great preventative measure, it’s important to understand that most sealers have a hard time adhering to oil-contaminated spots. Even if you apply a fresh coat of sealer, it may peel away from the oil-damaged areas over time, leaving your lot vulnerable once again.
The Role of Oil Spot Primers
There are specialized oil spot primers that can be used to help sealers stick to oil-contaminated areas. These primers act as a barrier, allowing the sealer to adhere more effectively to the damaged spots. However, it’s important to note that even with the use of primers, oil spots will always be a weak point in your pavement. Over time, the oil may still bleed up through the sealer, causing peeling or staining.
The Best Solution for Severe Oil Spots
For severe oil spots, the best solution is to replace the affected area. Depending on the extent of the damage, this may involve removing and replacing a small section of the asphalt. This ensures that the compromised pavement is entirely removed, and new, structurally sound asphalt is installed. While this approach is more intensive, it is the most effective way to ensure the long-term integrity of your parking lot.
Why Choose Top Job Asphalt?
At Top Job Asphalt, we understand how oil spots can impact the longevity of your parking lot. We use only the best products and sealers available, ensuring that any work we perform is done to the highest standard. If you have oil spots in your parking lot, our team can evaluate the severity of the damage and recommend the best course of action, whether that’s using an oil spot primer or replacing the affected section altogether.
Preventing Future Oil Damage
One of the best ways to prevent future oil damage is through regular parking lot maintenance. This includes sealcoating every 2-5 years to protect the surface from water, UV rays, and contaminants. Additionally, addressing oil leaks from vehicles as soon as they are noticed can help prevent the damage from spreading. Encouraging drivers to maintain their vehicles and promptly cleaning up any spills can go a long way in preserving the health of your asphalt.
Contact Us for a Free Assessment
If you’re dealing with oil spots in your parking lot, don’t wait until the damage becomes extensive. Contact Top Job Asphalt today for a free assessment. Our experts will help you understand the condition of your pavement and provide the best solutions to keep your parking lot looking great and functioning properly for years to come.