How to Remove Graffiti
- 1). Scrub with water and detergent. Use a stiff nylon brush to scrub a mixture of water and regular liquid dishwashing detergent on the graffiti. Rinse the surface with a water spray from a garden hose. If the graffiti paint is water soluble, it should come off easily. If the paint is oil-based, try one of the next methods.
- 2). Apply a chemical paint remover. Consult a home improvement center for options because some paint removers are best used on specific surfaces like wood, cement, brick and other surfaces. Consider the implications of using chemical agents, like effects on health, quantity, cost and application requirements. Note that a paint remover will remove the graffiti as well as the original paint.
- 3). Use a pressure washer. Depending on the size of the graffiti and the surface it's on, a pressure washer could do the job. Determine what pressure setting is appropriate, taking into consideration that too much pressure can ruin wood, stone and brick surfaces. Consider renting a pressure washer or having professionals perform the task.
- 4). Use a sandblaster. Deep set and hard-dried graffiti may have to be sandblasted off. This will require the services of a professional because specialized equipment is used. Cleanup will also be a major task.
- 5). Apply a new coat of paint. Painting a new coat over the entire area to cover graffiti could be the first step if the graffiti is easy to hide. Some graffiti may seep through the new paint job and require several coats. Painting over could also be the final step after applying chemical paint removers, pressure washing or sandblasting.