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A Good Way of Removing Graffiti From Concrete

As the most common type of vandalism, graffiti plagues communities by devaluing public and private property. Vandals use spray paint or permanent markers on concrete building walls, freeway overpasses and street curbs. The porous nature of concrete soaks up paint, making it one of the most difficult surfaces from which to remove graffiti. Proper techniques can remove unsightly graffiti from concrete and keeping property graffiti-free lessens the likelihood of further vandalism.

Things You'll Need

  • Pressure washer
  • Biodegradable chemical remover
  • Small plastic bin
  • Eye goggles
  • Stiff brush
  • Chemical absorbent mat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare the area before starting the process of graffiti removal. Cover any storm drains with a chemical absorbent mat. Close all building windows and doors and seal all electrical fixtures by taping them off and covering them with plastic bags. Protect your eyes from chemicals and high pressure water with plastic goggles.

    • 2

      Use a thick, citrus-based biodegradable chemical remover. Pour the remover into a small plastic bin to prevent it from drying out during the application. Use a stiff brush to apply the chemical remover directly onto the graffiti. Scrub the area thoroughly with the stiff brush to break up the paint.

    • 3

      Prepare the pressure washer by checking gas and oil levels and filtering out any debris. Stand three feet away from the surface you wish to wash and operate the pressure washer on a low setting. Spray the top of the area first and work your way down by moving back and forth with overlapping strokes.