Oil Stain On Resin (What To Do)

Written By Damien Murray

Oil stains on resin-bound gravel can be a bit tricky to clean, but with the right approach, you can effectively remove them without damaging the surface. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to handle oil stains on resin-bound gravel:

1. Act Quickly

  • The sooner you deal with the oil stain, the easier it will be to remove. Once oil soaks into the resin-bound surface, it can become more difficult to clean.

2. Absorb Excess Oil

  • Blot the Area: Use paper towels, a clean cloth, or sawdust to blot the excess oil. Do not rub it in, as this can spread the stain. The goal is to soak up as much oil as possible.

  • Sand or Cat Litter (Optional): If the oil spill is large, you can use sand or cat litter to absorb the oil. Just sprinkle it on the spill, let it sit for a few hours, and then sweep it up.

3. Cleaning with Soap and Water

  • Mild Dish Soap Solution: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap (that’s grease-fighting) with warm water.

  • Scrub Gently: Use a soft-bristled brush or a cloth to scrub the affected area. Be careful not to use anything too abrasive, as it could damage the resin surface.

  • Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the area thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.

4. Use a Degreaser (for Tough Stains)

  • If the soap and water solution didn’t completely remove the stain, a degreaser designed for outdoor use or for cleaning oil stains on driveways can be helpful.

  • Test First: Always do a small spot test on a less visible area of your resin-bound gravel to make sure the degreaser doesn’t damage the surface.

  • Apply the degreaser as per the instructions and use a soft brush to scrub the stain. Make sure to wear gloves and protect your eyes if using a chemical degreaser.

5. Use a Stain Remover (Optional)

  • There are specialized driveway cleaners and stain removers available that target oil stains. These products are often designed for use on surfaces like resin-bound gravel or tarmac.

  • Follow the product instructions carefully and ensure it’s safe to use on resin-bound surfaces.

6. Pressure Washing (If Necessary)

  • If the stain persists and it’s large or very old, you may consider pressure washing the area. However, use a low-pressure setting to avoid damaging the resin-bound gravel surface. Too high a pressure could cause the resin to separate from the aggregate or loosen the gravel.

  • Keep a Safe Distance: Hold the pressure washer nozzle about 12–18 inches above the surface to avoid direct damage.

7. Consider Resin-Bound Gravel Repair (For Stubborn Stains)

  • If the oil stain has permanently discolored the resin or left a significant mark that doesn't come out with cleaning, you may need to consider repairing or resurfacing the affected area. A professional can assess the damage and advise on the best course of action.

8. Prevent Future Oil Stains

  • Sealant Application: Consider applying a protective sealant specifically designed for resin-bound gravel. This can make it easier to clean future spills and protect the surface from staining.

  • Prompt Action: Always clean up oil or other liquids as soon as possible to avoid permanent staining.

Summary

  • Act quickly and absorb excess oil.

  • Start with a mild soap solution and gently scrub.

  • If needed, use a degreaser or stain remover to tackle tougher stains.

  • Consider pressure washing with caution for large, stubborn stains.

  • Apply a sealant to prevent future stains.

If the oil stain is particularly old or deeply ingrained, it might require professional cleaning or resurfacing, but for most cases, the methods above should be effective. Pro Surface Irl Ltd.

Damien Murray
Next

Commercial Surfacing