Paint Removal From Cement Walls

Pressure Washing

• Most concrete can withstand the high pressure of power washing; however, this method is impractical on interior concrete walls. Pressure washing can be effective on exterior walls if there aren't too many layers of paint to remove.

Shotblasting

• Shotblasting is similar to sandblasting. Tiny metal beads are used instead of sand to literally blast the paint off of the concrete. A vacuum attachment vacuums away the dust and debris. The machine must be kept in constant motion to avoid removing too much of the surface. Shotblasters can be rented but it can be difficult to find a local provider. Additionally, shotblasting may be a challenge for the inexperienced do-it-yourselfer.

Grinding

• If the affected area is not too large, handheld grinders can be rented to grind the paint off of concrete walls. Grinding requires some practice and skill to avoid removing too much concrete as it is difficult to grind off the paint without removing a thin layer of concrete as well. In addition, grinding can leave marks on concrete.

Paint Strippers

• Paint stripping is the paint removal method that causes the least damage to a concrete surface. Chemical-based strippers are quick and effective, but they are also potentially harmful to people as well as the environment. Less toxic alternatives include soy- or citrus-based paint strippers although they take longer to work.