Whether it’s stuck to your sidewalk, patio, or driveway, removing chewing gum from surfaces can be a sticky and frustrating task. Over time, gum can get stuck and turn into a black, sticky mess that becomes increasingly difficult to remove. Not only does it make the area look unappealing, but discarded chewing gum can also become a breeding ground for dirt and bacteria.
In this blog post, we will provide you with the top tips for removing gum from your surfaces, leaving them clean and looking new again. So, let’s dive in and get your surfaces gum-free!
Why You Should Remove Chewing Gum
Gum can be found in many places, from public parks and sidewalks to schools and businesses. Removing chewing gum from sidewalks and public areas may seem like a daunting task, but it’s essential to do so for several reasons.
Unsightly & Unappealing
First impressions are important, especially when it comes to public spaces. Chewing gum that’s stuck on sidewalks, patios, and other surfaces can create a sticky residue that attracts dirt and grime, making the area look unsightly and uninviting. This can discourage people from using the space, and in the case of businesses and commercial spaces, it can deter potential customers.
Removing discarded gum fosters pride in the appearance of commercial spaces and helps to create a welcoming atmosphere. It shows that the community or business takes care of its surroundings and values the comfort and satisfaction of its users.
Can Be A Health Hazard
Bacteria and other microorganisms thrive in damp and warm environments, which makes discarded gum an ideal breeding ground for illness and allergens. This is especially concerning in areas with high foot traffic, such as sidewalks, car parks and businesses.
By keeping surfaces clean and free of gum can help to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and other microorganisms, creating a safer and healthier environment for all.
Dangerous to the environment
Chewing gum may seem harmless, but it can have a lasting impact on the environment. Most types of chewing gum are not biodegradable, which means that it doesn’t break down naturally and can stay in the environment for many years.
This can have devastating effects on wildlife and their habitats, as animals can mistake gum for food or become entangled in discarded gum. In addition, gum on sidewalks and streets can attract insects, rodents, and other pests, creating further health hazards for humans and animals alike.
Encourages More Pollution
Chewing gum spots can create a domino effect of littering as people are more likely to discard their gum in an already messy area.
By removing gum spots promptly and encouraging others to dispose of their gum properly, we can prevent the spread of gum litter and maintain clean and safe public spaces.
Tips To Removing Gum From Surfaces: DIY Vs Professional Cleaning
There are a number of ways to remove discarded gum from concrete. The techniques used will depend on a number of factors including surface material, severity and quantity and the location of the chewing gum.
Some methods may be more suitable for smaller areas of gum, while others may be better suited for larger or more heavily affected areas. It’s essential to choose the right technique and tools to avoid damaging the concrete surface while effectively removing the gum. Here are some top tips to effectively remove chewing gum from a variety of stick surfaces:
Manual Removal & Scraping:
One of the easiest ways to remove gum from concrete and gum filled surfaces is to scrape it off manually. You can use a scraper or a putty knife to loosen the gum from the surface and then scrape it off.
This method is ideal for small areas of gum and may require additional cleaning to remove remaining residue.
Use Ice Cubes:
Another way to remove gum from is to freeze it using an ice cube. Simply place the ice cube on the gum and wait for it to freeze.
Once the gum has hardened, you can scrape it off using a scraper or a putty knife. This is best suited to chewing gum that is fresh and still sticky.
Chemicals & Cleaning Solutions:
There are also several chemical-based solutions available in the market that can break down the gum, making it easier to remove.
However, it is important to be cautious when using these cleaning solutions, as they can be harmful to the environment and can also damage the surface.
Pressure Cleaning:
Pressure cleaning, also known as power washing, is a popular and effective method for removing gum from sidewalks and other surfaces.
This method involves using a high-pressure water stream to blast away the gum and any other dirt or grime on the surface. Pressure cleaning is ideal for larger areas of gum and can be a quick and easy solution.
Should You Choose Professional Pressure Cleaners?
If you’re struggling with gum stuck on various surfaces, professional pressure cleaning services can be an excellent solution to the problem. Not only do these services have the experience and equipment needed to remove stubborn gum stains, but they also understand the importance of maintaining a clean and inviting environment for businesses and commercial properties.
Professional pressure washers work quickly and efficiently to minimise disruptions to customers and visitors while restoring the appearance of surfaces. They use specialized cleaning solutions and techniques to remove gum without causing any harm to the underlying surface. What’s more, they prioritize eco-friendly cleaning methods to protect the environment and ensure the safety of people, animals, and plants.
Whether it’s gum on concrete, sidewalks, or walls, professional pressure cleaning services can handle the job. They offer a cost-effective and hassle-free solution to remove gum stains from various surfaces, making them look new again.
Removing discarded chewing gum from surfaces is s an important task for maintaining a clean and inviting environment. Whether you choose to remove gum manually, with ice cubes, chemicals or through pressure cleaning, it’s important to select the right method to avoid damaging the surface.
While there are several DIY methods to removing gum, for larger or more heavily affected areas, professional pressure cleaning services may be the best solution. At Water Attack Pressure Washing, our team of experts has the knowledge, experience, equipment, and cleaning solutions needed to keep your surfaces clean and free of gum! If you’re struggling to remove gum from your surfaces, get in touch with us today!
