Graffiti Removal

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Remove Graffiti

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You do not have to accept that once your property has been subject to graffiti, the vandalism is there to stay. One of the most effective strategies against graffiti is to remove it as quickly as possible and to keep removing it if it returns.

Graffiti is always more easily removed if done as soon as possible before the paint has fully dried.

There are three key steps for effective removal:

1. Identify the surface type and the substance to be removed.
2. Select a removal method.
3. Apply preventative measures.

Removal methods

Paint-out
Paint is used to cover over graffiti on smooth, painted surfaces. It is fairly low-cost, easy to apply and a relatively safe product compared to chemical solvents used to remove graffiti. When painting out graffiti, make sure you:

• Avoid a patchwork effect by either correctly matching the old and new paint, or repainting the entire surface.
• Prepare the surface well to reduce “bleed–through” of the graffiti and to ensure a long lasting and professional finish.
• Ensure that the process is safe and environmentally friendly, including the clean-up of brushes and disposal of paint.

Chemical removers
Chemical removers vary, but typically the stronger the solvent, the faster it will dissolve or remove paint. In some cases, stronger solvents may require an increased focus on safety and personal protection.

A solvent or cleaner that is poorly matched to a particular construction material, however, may create aesthetically unappealing results and may damage the surface. Successful product selection is critical. When using any chemical remover, keep in mind who will be using the product, the safety precautions to follow and any training required for the product user. Secure a material safety data sheet (MSDS) from the distributor of any hazardous chemical. The MSDS will show the chemical make-up and any health and safety risks associated with use.

Pressure washing
Pressure washing equipment uses water or water in combination with a solvent to remove graffiti from a surface. A solvent may first be applied and then the surface is washed with pressurised water.

Sometimes a blasting media, such as baking soda or sand, is used to remove graffiti. While pressure washing is effective, it can wear down or damage the surface being treated.Return to top

Preventative measures

Graffiti coatings
There are two types of protective coatings: Sacrificial and non-sacrificial or permanent.

Sacrificial coatings are protective, but come off when graffiti is removed and must be reapplied. Non-sacrificial or permanent anti-graffiti coatings are unaffected by the graffiti removal process and remain on the surface, however, they are more hazardous and difficult to apply.

Easy graffiti removal

Surface	Step 1	Step 2	Step 3	Step 4	Step 5
Traffic signs	Apply methylated spirits	Rub with a rag	Wash off
Steel and aluminium	Apply methylated spirits	Rub with a stiff brush	Wash off
Plastic garbage bins	Apply methylated spirits	Rub with a stiff brush	Wash off
Plastic playground equipment	Apply graffiti remover	Rub with a stiff brush	Wash off
Colorbond fence	Apply graffiti remover to small area	Wipe with a very soft brush	Wash off straight away	Paint over
Unpainted brick	Apply graffiti remover	Wait five minutes	Rub with a stiff brush	Wash off	Repeat steps 1-4 until clean
Painted brick	Paint over	OR	Apply methylated spirits	Rub with a soft brush	Wash off
Control boxes	Apply methylated spirits	Rub with a rag	Rub with a stiff brush	Wash off
Footpaths and besser bricks	Apply methylated spirits	OR	Apply graffiti remover	Rub with a stiff brush	Wash off
Unpainted and painted paling fence	Use water blaster on soft setting	OR	Paint over

Table courtesy of Blacktown City Council, NSW, Australia

Related links

• Crime prevention through environmental design
• Report graffiti
• Tips on preventing graffitiReturn to top