How to Remove Paint From CMU Walls

Concrete masonry unit walls, or CMU walls, are straightforward to construct and extremely durable. Although they offer little in the way of aesthetic appeal, you can paint them. Paint inevitably cracks, flakes and dulls over time, so you'll need to remove the damaged paint before repainting. Sandblasting was a popular removal option, but it can be costly, messy and is prohibited by many municipalities for environmental concerns. A pressure washer used in conjunction with a paint stripper product can provide excellent results.

Things You'll Need

• Pressure washer
• Paint stripper
• Eye protection
• Rubber gloves

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Pressure-wash the wall to remove all but the most stubborn paint. Direct the water stream at a sharp angle to the wall. Strike the side of the paint with the stream only until the paint is removed. Don't concentrate the stream on an unpainted portion of the wall, as you may inadvertently damage it.

   • 2

     Apply a paint stripper to stubborn paint spots, using the paintbrush. The paint will begin to bubble after a few minutes as the stripper dissolves the paint. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves when applying the stripper.

   • 3

     Pressure-wash the wall again to remove the paint residue.