In recent years graffiti has become increasingly popular thanks to street artists like Banksy. Some people can only see graffiti in black and white, vandalism or nuisance. Some street artists use the world as their canvas for everyone to see. Graffiti can often create an alluring atmosphere with its vibrant and intoxicating colours. But, like you, we believe there is a time and a place, and perhaps your business isn’t it.

As a building owner or site manager, the last thing you want to see on a Monday morning is graffiti sprawled across the building. When it comes to graffiti, the faster you remove it, the easier it becomes to tackle, whilst also making it less likely to be vandalised again.

We have over 35 years of experience and knowledge of working in a diverse range of building environments. With this much experience and knowledge, we thought it was time to share some. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove graffiti quickly.

This in-depth tutorial will reveal some helpful ways to remove graffiti from your Brickwork, minimising the potential implications of any unpleasant graffiti on your property in the future. The surface of your building (concrete, metal, masonry, etc.) will determine what kind of techniques and products you will need to use to remove the graffiti.

So, let’s start with good old-fashioned Brickwork. To remove graffiti from porous surfaces:

  1. Use a paint-thinner or porous graffiti remover.
  2. Spray the solution over the graffiti and leave it for 15 to 20 minutes to get to work.
  3. If it is cooler outside, wait longer, as the chemicals react better in the warmth.

As soon as the paint begins to dissolve, it should disappear. Wash off the area using a pressure washer; warm water works best. If there is still reminisce of the graffiti, take a scrubbing, or wire brush and go back and forth in motion over the contaminated area until it disappears.

Removing tough graffiti from brick.

If you’ve got multiple layers of graffiti baked on by the sun over the years, it is best to start with a Heavy-Duty Paint Stripper. Remember to handle chemicals carefully and seek advice from a professional before purchasing hazardous substances. Heavy Duty Paint Strippers should be able to cut through and remove multiple layers of graffiti from any masonry surface. Typically, Heavy Duty Paint Strippers are slow-working paint removers that stay active for 24 hours after application to continue to dissolve the build-up of paint, restoring your Brickwork to its former glory.

Make sure the product is suitable for masonry surfaces so it will cut through all types of paint, including latex, acrylics, spray paint and more. If possible, select one with a gel consistency that can adhere to vertical surfaces, reducing spillage implications. This type of product is ideal to be applied with a brush, roller, or any conventional airless spray equipment. Heavy Duty Paint Stripper can often contain toxic chemicals, and we recommend getting one that contains zero methanol, chlorinated solvents, or methylene chloride, making it non-flammable. However, after application, it may require neutralisation; spray it down with water to rinse off the excess.

We encourage you to wear the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when removing graffiti, including gloves, goggles, and masks. We also recommend seeking professional advice and reading all instructions before starting. If you are not confident in your DIY skills, contact us at Fizzco Maintenance. Call us on 01427 666022 or email us at [email protected] for a free no, obligation quote.