3 Graffiti Removal Tips
1. Identify the surface type and substance that needs to be removed.
2. Select the appropriate removal method.
3. Apply a protective coating.
Surface Type and Substance Used
Although most graffiti vandals pick up the spray paint cans, this is not the only substance that could be on your surfaces. Also, depending on what material your surface is made of (brick, aluminium, wood, etc.), a different approach to removal may be needed. We’ve included a table to help you decide what action needs to be taken.
Graffiti Removal Pointers
Surface Type | Removal of spray paint/similar materials |
| Aluminium siding, fiberglass | Paint remover (sparingly); rinse with water |
| Glass | Razor blade to scrape off; also use paint thinner |
| Masonry (including brick, marble, stone, tile granite and concrete) | Power washing with low pressure; sand or soda blasting; paint remover or chemical graffiti remover/solvent applied with brush and rinse with water; paint over |
| Metal | Paint thinner or chemical graffiti remover/solvent and rub with steel wool or sandpaper and rinse; power washing; paint over |
| Pavement | Chemical remover and power washing; soda blasting |
| Street signs | Chemical remover (ensure it doesn’t remove reflective coating) |
| Stucco | Paint remover/chemical remover and rinse with a pressure wash; paint over |
| Wood | Try mineral spirits on painted, unweathered wood; power washing with low pressure; sanding; repainting |
Please note: these tips and pointers are to be used as guidelines. If you are not entirely confident removing graffiti from your surfaces, you should call a professional.
