How to Remove a Petroleum Product From Concrete Floors

Concrete floors are typically installed in areas of a home where normal use exposes the surface to oil, grease or other petroleum products, such as a garage or workshop area. There are a range of general purpose cleaners designed to clean common surface stains from concrete floors. Of these, muriatic acid, also known as hydrochloric acid, is a highly effective cleaner for tougher petroleum-based stains on concrete or masonry surfaces.

Broom
Floor scraper or large putty knife
Wire brush or vinyl-bristled scrub brush
TSP (tri-sodium phosphate) cleaner
Rubber or PVC gloves
Safety glasses
Vinyl bucket
Muriatic acid
Garden hose

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the floor area that is oil-stained. Sweep away any dirt or debris with a broom or floor brush.
- 2
  Remove any dried or built-up oil residue or other material from the floor surface with a scraper or putty knife.
- 3
  Wash the floor area thoroughly with hot soapy water and a scrub brush. For older or caked-on oil or grease that won't scrape off, use a standard solution of TSP cleaner and hot water to break up the material for easier removal. Rinse the area with clean water and allow it to dry thoroughly.
- 4
  Mix a solution of water and muriatic acid in a plastic bucket, following the manufacturer's directions. Prepare the mixture in a well-ventilated area to avoid breathing in the acidic fumes emitted during the mixing process.
- 5
  Apply a liberal amount of the muriatic acid solution to the stained floor area. Allow the solution to saturate the floor surface for approximately 15 minutes. Some stains may require a longer soaking period.
- 6
  Scrub the floor surface with a wire brush or plastic-bristled scrub brush to dislodge any remaining oil.
- 7
  Rinse the floor area thoroughly with clean water.

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