What Is The Best Method For The Removal Of Graffiti

Learning how to remove graffiti yourself will help you combat vandalism and keep your neighborhood beautiful. Here are some effective tips for the removal of graffiti from exterior walls:

• Set Up

Prepare the area you plan to work by laying down drop cloth and throwing tarp over the areas you want to protect from water or chemicals. Lay down a chemical-absorbing mat near the drain system where you are working to prevent harmful chemicals from spilling into the sewer system.

• Solutions

Clean the surface of the graffiti-area and apply paint-removing solution. Spray paint will usually require an abrasive solution like paint thinner, acetone, WD-40, or baking soda/water mixture (non-toxic). You can also purchase graffiti removal solution to help remove stubborn spray paint (Back To Nature brand is non-toxic).

• Scrub/Pressure Wash

Let the solution sit for 30 minutes and begin to scrub the surface with a thick wire brush. Scrub more gently if the surface is painted or coated with softer material like stucco. If the graffiti won’t come off, spray the surface with a pressure washer (hot water is most effective). Keep the water pressure lower for brick and mortar surfaces because they can easily get damaged (nothing over 500 PSI). Use a wide-angle spray nozzle to further protect vulnerable surfaces. Concrete is less vulnerable and can withstand stronger pressure to remove graffiti (up to 3500 PSI). If the graffiti persists, apply more solution and let it sit. Pressure-wash the surface again to remove the remaining graffiti. Work the whole area, not just the writing. This will keep you from leaving a shadow of where the writing used to be.

• Paint-Over

Painting over the graffiti is another option for vandalized areas that were previously painted. Depending on the paint color, you will mostly likely have to paint a few coats to mask the writing. Make sure to repaint the entire area in order to give the wall uniformity.

• Preventative Coating

Consider buying preventative coating if the area is particularly vulnerable to taggers. The coating will prevent the spray paint from bonding to the surface, making it much easier to remove.