Gum on a concrete porch, steps, garage floor or the paving by the front door looks unsightly and collects dust and sand. The rough, porous surface of concrete practically soaks the gum in, so scraping it off dry is almost impossible: it stretches and leaves a sticky patch.
WD-40 softens the gum and weakens its grip on the concrete. The gum then comes off with a scraper and the residue washes away with soapy water. The whole job usually takes no more than 15 minutes.
What you will need
Important: Lubricant makes the surface slippery, so wash it off completely on steps and entrances. On pale, porous concrete or decorative paving, test on a hidden area first so you do not leave a dark mark.
Step 1
Spray the gum
Spray WD-40 Multi-Use directly onto the gum and a little around it. For small bits in the joints between paving slabs, the straw of the WD-40 Smart Straw is handy.
Use enough to cover the gum well: thoroughly soaked gum comes away more easily.
Step 2
Wait a few minutes
Give the lubricant 3-5 minutes to penetrate the gum and the pores of the concrete beneath it and loosen the bond. In freezing weather the gum is hard, so allow a little longer.
Step 3
Scrape off the gum
Slide the scraper under the edge of the gum and slowly ease it away from the concrete, working towards the far edge. The softened gum should gradually lift from the surface.
If it holds on, apply a little more lubricant, wait and try again. Remove any residue left in the pores with a wire brush.
Step 4
Wash the surface
Wet the area with warm soapy water and scrub it thoroughly with the brush to remove leftover lubricant, gum and dirt. Rinse with clean water.
The concrete will look just as it did before the gum arrived.
Step 5
Let it dry
Wait until the surface is completely dry before using the steps or porch, and check with your hand that it is not slippery. In freezing weather do not leave puddles of soapy water: they will turn to ice.
Tip: Fresh gum is far easier to remove than gum that has been trodden in with sand for weeks. Keep a can of lubricant in the garage or utility cupboard so you can deal with it straight away.
What next
The same method works on paving, tarmac by the house and rubber mats. If gum is stuck to clothes or shoe soles, see our separate guide, and the same WD-40 Multi-Use will quieten a squeaky gate or free up a stiff garage lock.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».