How to Remove Previously Applied Solid Stain From Concrete

Solid colors of concrete stain look very similar to paint but are formulated to seep down into the pores of the concrete so that is does not flake or peel. If you have a concrete floor that is stained but you later want to remove it, the process is very similar to stripping paint from other surfaces. The use of chemical strippers is required to dissolve the stain, so extreme caution is required.

Safety glasses
Ventilator
Chemical resistant gloves
Coveralls
Paint stripper designed for concrete
Long-handle brush or paint roller
Plastic tarp
Putty knife
Floor scraper
Shovel
Heavy-duty trash bag
Garden hose or pressure washer

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all items from the concrete surface and sweep it thoroughly. Open all doors and windows to the area, if it is indoors.
- 2
  Put on coveralls, safety glasses, chemical-resistant gloves and a respirator.
- 3
  Open a can of paint stripper that is designed for use on concrete and stir it up with a paint stirrer. If you are working in an indoor location, consider using a soy-based paint stripper, which takes longer to work, but emits fewer fumes and odors.
- 4
  Spread the remover over the concrete surface using a long-handled brush or a paint roller. Do not work the stripper in, simply apply it in a thick coat.
- 5
  Cover the stripper with a plastic drop cloth and let it sit for the amount of time indicated on the can instructions.
- 6
  Lift up the tarp and test the concrete stain by scraping it with a putty knife. When it peels up easily, it is adequately softened. Remove the remaining tarp from the floor.
- 7
  Scrape the softened stain off of the concrete using a floor scraper. Place the material into a heavy-duty trash bag using the scraper or a shovel.
- 8
  Rinse off the concrete floor using a high powered hose or a pressure washer to remove all traces of the chemicals from the surface.

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