What are the Best Graffiti Removal Techniques?

Graffiti Removal Strategies and Techniques

There are a few incredible graffiti artists in the world, yet it appears that most of the time, graffiti is senseless vandalism. If your property is vandalised with a “tag,” here’s what you should do next.

Is it Permanent?

You should first consider if the graffiti was done with permanent markers or paint. Some graffiti media may be washed away with water or a pressure washer. If you have a permanent “art piece” on your hands, it’s time to try something more potent.

Cleaning Strategies: Smooth Surfaces vs. Rough Surfaces

Different sorts of surfaces need distinct cleaning methods. Here are the most effective strategies for eliminating vandalism, regardless of the surface type.

Smooth Surfaces

Graffiti removal is easier on smooth surfaces like metal and glass (street signs, windows, etc.). Try a small amount of cleanser in the area to test for removing paint; if it comes off without requiring additional chemicals, you should be OK with just elbow grease. Continue to clean the graffiti until it has been removed by scrubbing with cleaner.

Rough Surfaces

Graffiti is especially difficult to remove from rough surfaces. Porous materials like bricks or cinder blocks may require additional cleaning agents. Begin by applying a generous amount of cleanser to the surface and waiting for it to soak in. Scrub the graffiti with an abrasive pad or even steel wool until it is removed. It is likely that you will require pressure washing. 

Even after the paint has been scraped away, a distinct discolouration remains—a clear indication of vandalism. In many situations, the whole wall needs to be repainted. 

If you need more information on how to deal with rough surfaces, check our ultimate guide to remove graffiti here. 

Essential Graffiti Removal Tools for DIY

Professional graffiti removal services can be expensive, but DIY may end up costing you more! If anyway you want to give it a try first, here are a few tools you should consider: 

• Aerosol-Based Solvent: Chemicals that get rid of graffiti are best applied with an aerosol-based solvent, which allows you to reach difficult areas like cracks and crevices. Most off-the-shelf removal chemicals require the chemical to be sprayed onto a dirty surface in order to penetrate the paint. It is best that you use a chemical remover after pressure washing, as its high-pressure stream will help aid in removing difficult graffiti residue left behind by other chemicals or scrubbing.
• Clean Cotton Rags (painters rags): Cotton Rags can be helpful to remove graffiti from small surfaces. Use it with a chemical solution to soak the rag, then wipe off the graffiti from your walls or rocks using firm pressure.
• Paint Rollers & Brushes: A paint roller or brush may also help you remove complex graffiti, especially if it is done on smooth surfaces. Use a chemical solvent that can be rolled onto the surface and wait for it to penetrate into the dirt before wiping it off with a cotton rag.
• Garbage Bags: Use a garbage bag to collect all of the old paint chips and pieces that are scraped from your walls or rocks.
• Matching paint: Paint the colour you’re trying to match over the previously cleaned area to hide any lasting sign of the graffiti.
• Paint Scraping Tool: If you’re trying to remove the graffiti on brick or cinder block walls, a paint scraping tool will be helpful. You can use a screwdriver or putty knife to scrape the graffiti from your wall (this may take ages).
• Wire Brushes. For a wide range of outdoor surfaces, wire brushes are cheap and efficient graffiti removal solutions. It eliminates graffiti rapidly, even though it leaves brush marks. It’s perfect for sidewalks and curbs, as well as smooth stone or brick surfaces.
• Pressure Washer. Investing in a pressure washer is worth it if you have multiple surfaces that need cleaning, as power washing will make any chemical solution work better and more efficiently. In some cases, however, using too much water may harm the exterior of your building.
• A protective dust mask. It will prevent some of the adverse health effects of breathing in paint, aerosols and chemicals. Handling with care will keep you safe during the cleaning process. If unsure about how to use your equipment safely, make sure you do some research beforehand!
• Get Safety glasses or eye goggles.