How to Soften Concrete

Softening concrete for removal can help to correct any mistakes made using concrete in home improvements.

While new concrete, that which has been left to cure or dry for less than 48 hours, can be softened, most concrete allowed to cure for more than two days cannot be softened for easy removal and will have to be broken up. Softening concrete helps to ensure fast, effective removal without damaging surfaces or machinery.

1. Remove all loose concrete. If there is any dried or loosened concrete on the surface of the area, tool, or machinery, remove that by hand before applying the softening agent.

2. Spray the concrete with highly pressurized cold water. The cold water helps to clean any dirt or other debris from the concrete as well as to remove any lingering bits of hardened, loose concrete. Allow the area to completely dry.

3. Spray with softening agent. The softening agent can be placed in a spray bottle for ease of application or the area can be soaked to help soften harder pieces. Do not dilute the softening compound unless instructed by product directions.

4. Remove the softened concrete. Older concrete may require the use of tools to completely remove. Reapply the softening compound to continue loosening built up concrete.

Tip

Many concrete softening products can be used to help prevent buildup on tools and machinery. Soak tools and other smaller objects that have buildup on them in the softening agent for up to two days before attempting to remove the softened concrete.

Warning

Do not attempt to immediately remove concrete after applying the softening agent. Allow it to sit at least overnight before attempting removal. Concrete softening compound may not work on fully hardened concrete.