As an asphalt construction specialist, I’m often asked if washing vehicles on freshly paved asphalt driveways or parking lots can cause stains or water spots. This is an important concern when protecting new pavement. In this article, I’ll provide the answer, and then discuss what causes asphalt staining and best practices for car washing on new surfaces.
Can Washing Vehicles Damage New Asphalt Surfaces?
The Short Answer
Yes, washing cars on new asphalt can lead to unsightly gray stains if the proper precautions are not taken. The combination of water, soil, car cleaning chemicals, and tire residue can interact with the asphalt and draw oil and emulsifiers to the surface. This results in stubborn gray discoloration that is difficult to remove.
However, taking a few simple precautions when washing vehicles on new blacktops can prevent staining and keep the pavement looking pristine. The keys are using biodegradable cleaners, limiting excess water, and scrubbing tires on adjacent surfaces. I provide specific guidance later in the article.
Now that I’ve provided the direct answer up front, let’s look at the causes of asphalt staining from car washing and the best practices to avoid it.
How Does Car Washing Stain Asphalt?
To understand why auto cleaning can stain new pavement, we need to examine the interaction between wash water and asphalt binder.
Asphalt Chemistry
Asphalt binder is a dark brown or black cement-like petroleum product used to glue aggregates together into a cohesive paving material. This oily binder contains various hydrocarbons and emulsifying agents.
Water Interaction
When the asphalt surface is saturated with water and agitated by tire scrubbing, friction removes some of the oily binder film from the aggregate edges. Detergents also emulsify the binder.
The oily film and soapy emulsions then float to the surface as the water evaporates or penetrates into the pavement. This leaves behind telltale grayish stains and residues.
Preventing Stains
To avoid this staining, the amount of water and scrubbing action in contact with the new asphalt must be minimized. Biodegradable cleaners are also recommended.
Now that we understand the staining mechanisms, let’s look at specific car wash best practices for new asphalt.
Best Practices for Washing Cars on New Asphalt
Here are some guidelines to prevent car washing from staining newly sealed or paved asphalt surfaces:
Wait at least 2 weeks for the asphalt to fully cure before washing vehicles on it.
Use only biodegradable cleaners formulated for minimal asphalt impact. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Limit water usage – turn off sprayers when not rinsing and avoid excessive flooding.
Scrub tires on adjacent concrete or gravel areas, not directly on the asphalt.
Hand scrub the vehicle with minimal water instead of drive-through washing.
Rinse detergent residue thoroughly to avoid concentrated accumulation.
Dry thoroughly with squeegees, towels, or leaf blowers when done.
Following these simple common sense practices allows washing vehicles without the risk of problematic gray staining on new asphalt surfaces. Let’s look at a few of these tips in more detail.
Key Car Washing Considerations
To expand on some of the key best practices:
Wait 2 Weeks for Asphalt Curing
It takes at least 14 days for new asphalt to oxidize and seal the aggregate edges with a protective binder film. Washing before this risks loosening this seal coat. Be patient!
Use Biodegradable Cleaners
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners like wheel acids or degreasers on new asphalt. Use biodegradable formulations labeled safe for new asphalt or blacktop.
Scrub Tires Elsewhere
Tire scrubbing with stiff brushes is the main culprit for rubbing off the vulnerable new binder layer on asphalt. Instead, scrub tires on an adjacent concrete, gravel or existing asphalt surface.
Rinse Thoroughly
Detergent residues on new asphalt can lead to concentrated deposits of emulsified binder bleeding to the surface when sunlight returns. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Dry Quickly
Allowing new asphalt to air dry after washing risks water evaporating and depositing dissolved binder on the surface. Wipe the pavement dry with towels or use a blower.
Taking the time to follow these basic precautions allows for successfully washing vehicles on new asphalt once cured without worrying about unsightly gray stains developing.
What If Stains Occur?
If light stains do occur on new pavement despite precautions:
- Apply a blacktop sealer to re-protect and hide staining.
- Use a stiff bristle brush with a degreaser to scrub very mild stains after 30+ days of curing.
- For severe stains, contact a professional for binder stripping and resealing.
The best solution is prevention. But when issues do occur, these tips can provide remedies.
Chemical Cleaners and Degreasers
For more stubborn or deeply embedded stains, chemical cleaners and degreasers may be necessary. However, exercise caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully:
- Select a cleaner or degreaser specifically designed for asphalt surfaces and compatible with the type of stain you’re addressing.
- Protect surrounding areas by covering or masking off any surfaces you don’t want exposed to the chemicals.
- Apply the cleaner or degreaser to the stained area, allowing it to dwell for the recommended time.
- Scrub the area vigorously using a stiff-bristled brush or a power washer (if recommended).
- Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water to remove any residual chemicals or contaminants.
Stain Removal Costs
| Removal Method | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Mild Detergent Solutions | $0.10 – $0.50 per square foot |
| Chemical Cleaners and Degreasers | $0.50 – $2.00 per square foot |
| Power Washing | $0.75 – $1.50 per square foot |
| Abrasive Blasting | $2.00 – $5.00 per square foot |
| Milling or Grinding | $3.00 – $8.00 per square foot |
Preventive Measures
| Preventive Measure | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Asphalt Sealant or Coating | $0.10 – $0.50 per square foot |
| Designated Car Washing Area | $5,000 – $20,000 (depending on size and complexity) |
Mechanical Removal Methods
| Method | Description | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Power Washing |
|
|
| Abrasive Blasting |
|
|
| Milling or Grinding |
|
|
Queries Corner
How can I remove stubborn oil stains from newly laid asphalt?
To tackle oil stains on new asphalt, you’ll want to use a degreaser or driveway cleaner specifically designed for asphalt and concrete surfaces. Scrub the stain with the cleaner using a stiff-bristle brush, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
What’s the best way to clean asphalt after a spill?
Acting quickly is key when dealing with spills on new asphalt. Absorb as much of the spill as possible with cat litter or another absorbent material. Then, use a driveway cleaner and scrub brush to remove any remaining stains.
Will power washing damage new asphalt?
Power washing can be too aggressive for fresh asphalt and may cause premature aging or damage. It’s best to stick with scrub brushes and asphalt-safe cleaners for the first few months after installation.
How long should I wait before cleaning the new asphalt?
Most experts recommend waiting at least 30 days before cleaning or sealing new asphalt to allow it to fully cure. Attempting to clean it too soon could lead to staining or damage.
Can household cleaners be used on asphalt stains?
Many household cleaners are too harsh for asphalt and may cause further damage or discoloration. Stick with cleaners specifically designed for use on asphalt and concrete surfaces.
Is there a way to prevent stains on new asphalt?
Applying a sealant after the asphalt has fully cured can help protect it from stains and spills. Sealants create a barrier that makes cleanup easier by preventing substances from penetrating the surface.
What causes the black stains on new asphalt driveways?
Those unsightly black stains are often caused by vehicle fluids like oil, gas, and antifreeze leaking onto the fresh asphalt surface. They can be tricky to remove if left untreated.
Can muriatic acid be used to clean asphalt?
Muriatic acid is much too harsh for use on asphalt and will cause permanent damage. Stick to pH-neutral, asphalt-safe cleaners to avoid etching or discoloration.
How do I remove tire marks from new asphalt?
For tire marks, make a paste with water and trisodium phosphate (TSP) and scrub it into the stained area. Let it sit briefly before rinsing thoroughly. TSP is a heavy-duty cleaner safe for asphalt when used properly.
Will stains on new asphalt go away over time?
Unfortunately, stains tend to get harder to remove the longer they’re left untreated on asphalt. It’s best to clean up spills and stains immediately for easier removal.
What’s the most stubborn type of stain on asphalt?
In my experience, oil-based stains like motor oil tend to be among the most stubborn and difficult to fully remove from asphalt surfaces, especially once they’ve had time to set in.
Can I use a pressure washer after sealing new asphalt?
Yes, pressure washing is generally safe for sealed asphalt as long as you use a wide fan spray nozzle and keep the wand at least 6 inches from the surface to avoid damaging the sealant.
How do I prepare new asphalt for sealing?
Before sealing, the asphalt needs to be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt, oil, or debris that could prevent proper adhesion of the sealant. Use an asphalt cleaner and rinse fully.
What temperature is ideal for sealing new asphalt?
The optimal temperature range for applying asphalt sealant is between 50-90°F. Sealing in temperatures outside this range can lead to improper curing of the sealant.
How often should new asphalt be sealed?
Most manufacturers recommend sealing new asphalt every 2-3 years to protect against UV damage, staining, and general wear and tear from the elements.
Do sealants make asphalt slippery when wet?
Quality asphalt sealants should actually increase traction and make the surface less slippery when wet compared to unsealed asphalt. Look for sealants designed to be slip-resistant.
Can salt damage new asphalt or sealant?
Yes, rock salt used for melting ice can pit and damage both new asphalt and sealants if overused. Try using a more asphalt-safe deicer instead.
What causes the white hazy stains on asphalt?
That white hazy discoloration is caused by a chemical reaction between the asphalt and compounds like fertilizers, soaps, or even hard water. A degreaser made for asphalt can help remove it.
How long does it take for a stain to set in asphalt?
Stains can start to set in as quickly as a few hours on new asphalt, so swift action is important. Don’t let a spill sit overnight if you want the best chance of full removal.
Is it safe to use oven cleaner on asphalt stains?
No, oven cleaners are far too caustic to use on asphalt. The harsh chemicals will likely discolor and damage the surface. Stick to proper asphalt cleaners instead.
Can hot asphalt stains be removed the same way?
Removing fresh hot pour asphalt stains requires a different approach than typical driveway stains. You’ll need to first scrape off any excess material, then use a penetrating solvent to fully remove the staining.
Will cat litter help remove stains from new asphalt?
Yes, cat litter can be very handy for absorbing spills and some types of stains from new asphalt before they set in. Cover the stain with litter, let it absorb, then sweep away and use an asphalt cleaner.
What’s the white powdery residue I see on new asphalt?
That white powdery substance is known as asphalt bloom a completely normal occurrence caused by certain oils and compounds migrating up through the asphalt as it cures fully. It’s unsightly but temporary.
How can I avoid leaving footprints on fresh asphalt?
To prevent footprints from marring fresh asphalt work, make sure to avoid the area completely until the asphalt has had several days to set and cure properly before walking on it.
Is it okay to park cars on newly sealed asphalt?
You’ll want to avoid parking on newly sealed asphalt for at least 24-48 hours after application. Premature parking can damage the uncured sealant and lead to stains or impressions.
How do I remove paint splatters from new asphalt?
For paint splatters, you’ll need to act fast. First, try scraping off as much as possible with a putty knife while the paint is still wet. Then use a driveway cleaner and stiff brush to remove the remaining stains.
Is there a way to lighten asphalt after sealing?
Yes, there are lighter tinted sealant options available that can help create a more pleasing, less intensely black appearance to new asphalt after sealing if that’s your preference.
In summary, allow new asphalt to cure completely before washing vehicles, and take steps to minimize binder emulsification. Your patience will be rewarded with a clean, stain-free blacktop. Let me know if you have any other asphalt staining questions!
