Methods of Removing Gum

The challenge of removing chewing gum is a concern that has grown over time and as the population expands, so does the problem. While there are several methods employed to remove chewing gum, most have drawbacks that can cause more harm than good. We explain below some of the more prevalent methods and their respective characteristics.

Power Washing: This is probably the most common method used. Due to the high volume of water, it can only be used outdoors. Large amounts of water, usually in the thousands of gallons, are disbursed through a hose attached to a wand under very high pressure, normally ranging from 1200 to 3500 PSI. Depending on the type of surface being cleaned, this high pressure can damage the surface (can cause concrete etching). Many local ordinances are now requiring the operators to reclaim the water being using by a vacuum system so the large amounts of contaminated water does not enter the drainage system. These machines are normally very loud, therefore, cleaning must be during off hours so as not to harm or inconvenience pedestrians and customers. Some systems use hot water and harsh chemicals, which is not environmentally friendly.

Scraping: A manual process that employs a scraping tool used to scrape and chip the gum from usually hard surfaces. This method is time consuming, laborious and frequently damages the surface being cleaned and is not suitable for soft surfaces such as carpets, rubber and plastic tiles or surfaces prone to scratching. Additionally, scraping is generally ineffective on porous surfaces, as the gum is basically below the surface.

Freezing: Using heavily protected clothing, a worker directs a jet spray of carbon dioxide onto a gum spot. While the carbon dioxide does, in fact, freeze the gum, it is often necessary to chip or scrape the gum wad for full removal. This method is dangerous and not suitable for use in areas where pedestrians or customers are present. Therefore, work is typically performed before or after normal business operating hours. This process is known to cause surface damage due to the use extreme cold.

Sand Blasting: This process is only used outdoors and is extremely messy. Sand and debris may be dangerous to customers and pedestrians and therefore, is only used during off business hours. Due to the use of high pressure mixed with sand, this process can cause significant surface damage.

Laser Burning: This method is very expensive and dangerous to both people and the environment. Enough said.

Burning: This method uses a propane torch to burn off the gum wad. For more information, see laser burning above.