Three Principal Guidelines for Removing Graffiti from Concrete Walls

Concrete is a popular material for residential and commercial construction because it is durable. It can withstand exposure to harsh conditions without damage and wear. Unfortunately, this material can be compromised by graffiti vandalism. The application of paint on the surfaces by unscrupulous individuals will deface the construction material. Moreover, the material is quite porous, so the damage can be quite significant. If your concrete walls have been targeted and damaged using graffiti, consider using these guidelines for successful removal.

Avoid Removal Delays

You should never delay the removal of graffiti from concrete walls. This consideration is of particular importance if you have a bare surface. As mentioned, concrete has a high level of porosity, which means that it will absorb materials into the small holes in the structure. If the paint is left on the bare walls for a long time, it will be difficult to remove. Therefore, take immediate action to minimise the damage to your building. Sealed or painted walls will be less vulnerable to permanent damage. However, it is still advisable to avoid delays because graffiti tags will attract other vandals.

Use a Pressure Washer

The simplest approach to removing graffiti paint from your concrete walls is pressure washing. This practice is highly effective for water-based products. This type of equipment will minimise the level of damage to the walls. Moreover, its simplicity means that there is no professional experience required. If you do not have a power washer for this use, you can acquire one from a rental company.

When using a pressure washer for cleaning your walls, you should control the pressure. Choose a diffused flow and avoid maximum pressures. The extreme force could compromise the integrity of the wall.

You should also consider using warm water for the cleaning process. This could help in loosening the paint and eliminating it. You should note that old and stubborn paint can be difficult to remove using simple high-pressure water. If this is the case, you can improve the results by using some detergent and a scrubbing brush with stiff nylon bristles.

Prevent Surface Etching

Finally, you should avoid etching the concrete during graffiti removal. If the concrete wall is etched, the upper layers of the tough material will be torn. This will eliminate the paint, but your building will be more vulnerable to moisture damage. You can prevent etching by choosing gentle chemicals like paint thinners for removing oil-based coatings. Avoid harsh acids, and do not choose a mechanical method like sandblasting except as a last resort. 

To learn more, contact a graffiti removal contractor.