| The following are tips for removing graffiti from various
types of surfaces. The City of Stevens Point does not endorse specific brands of products, but rather uses brand
names to help the consumer identify these graffiti removal materials and supplies. |
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Before you get started, remember:
- Prompt removal is most effective
- Always use the most gentle means of removal first
in order to not harm surfaces.
- Use caution when using dangerous and toxic chemicals.
- Test your removal methods and materials on a small,
unimportant area to be sure they work without causing damage.
- Hire a trained professional for valuable surfaces,
historic buildings, or unstable materials.
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Metal Surfaces:
- Try wiping graffiti with any common paint thinner
(i.e. mineral spirits, lacquer thinner, acetone), or try graffiti removal products such as Goof Off. Sometimes
wiping the graffiti with light penetrating oil such as WD-40 or Three-in-One will remove it.
- If graffiti remains, try to remove it by rubbing
with steel or bronze wool or light sandpaper.
- If graffiti still remains, try power-washing it
with a pressure washer.
- If none of these methods work, paint over the graffiti.
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Wood Surfaces:
- If the wood is not weathered and is sealed with
paint, stain, or sealer, try to remove it by wiping it with mineral spirits. If the wood is weathered, do not use
this technique, as the mineral spirits will be absorbed by the wood - driving the paint further down into it.
- Power washing with low pressure can be used, however,
watch carefully to make sure the pressure is not driving the paint deeper into the wood grain. It is not recommended
to exceed 700 psi.
- If these methods do not work, sand the wood and
re-paint or simply paint over the graffiti.
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Plastic Surfaces:
- Try wiping graffiti with a light penetrating oil
such as WD-40 or Three-in-One. Do not use paint thinners as they can soften the plastic and can cause clouding
(if clear plastic) or permanent tackiness of the surface.
- Sometimes a light rubbing with ultra-fine steel
or bronze wool will remove the paint.
- If these methods do not remove the graffiti, paint
over it.
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Glass Surfaces:
- The best method for removing painted graffiti from
glass is to use a razor blade to carefully scrape it off. This method is 99% effective. Use the razor blade in
a holder and scrape at a 30-degree angle to the glass.
- If the paint does not come completely off after
using the razor blade, use ultra-fine bronze wool with water to gently rub the remaining paint off.
- You can use paint thinners on glass, however, the
razor blade method is much quicker and more environmentally friendly.
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Masonry Surfaces:
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Always read product labels and follow all manufacturer
instructions and recommendations. Most of the products identified above are flammable - use caution and follow
safety directions when using these products. Always use proper safety clothing and equipment including gloves,
safety glasses, etc. It is recommended that a small test area be done prior to a full application of any product.
Thanks to our friends from the City of Boulder, Colorado
for this information. |
