Graffiti is a form of vandalism that involves illicitly writing or drawing on exterior surfaces, typically using spray paint or permanent markers. If your business has been targeted, you’re probably looking for the fastest and most effective way to remove graffiti from your building.
Timmins Painting has helped many Sonoma County businesses restore their exteriors, and we’re here to help you do the same. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about removing graffiti from the exterior of your business.
How to Remove Graffiti from Different Surface Types
When it comes to graffiti removal, methods that work for one surface won’t always be effective for another. Below is a table of common exterior surfaces and the best graffiti removal strategies for each one:
| Surface Type | Recommended Methods |
|---|---|
| Masonry | Pressure rinsing, graffiti remover, repainting |
| Metal (doors, signage, etc.) | Rubbing alcohol, graffiti remover |
| Glass | Rubbing alcohol |
| Wood | Graffiti remover (test first), repainting |
| Plastic / Plexiglass | Rubbing alcohol |
| Stucco | Pressure rinsing, graffiti remover, repainting |
| Vinyl Siding | Pressure rinsing, rubbing alcohol, repainting |
If you’re unsure which method is suitable for your situation, contact Timmins Painting to find the best solution for your business.
4 Ways to Remove Graffiti from Your Building
First impressions matter, especially for businesses. In fact, 95% of customers say that business exteriors can influence their purchasing decisions.1 So graffiti can be a major frustration for business owners.
If left unaddressed, this vandalism can make your business look neglected, unprofessional, and send the wrong message to customers before they even walk through your door. Luckily, there are ways to address this problem.
If you’ve scrubbed away at offensive tags or unwanted street art with no luck, try these practical strategies to safely remove graffiti from your property:
1. Pressure Rinsing
Best for removing graffiti from: Brick, concrete, stucco, and other masonry surfaces
Pressure rinsing is an effective way to tackle graffiti without using harsh chemicals. A high-powered stream of water breaks the bond between paint and the surface, allowing it to be rinsed away. It’s generally suitable for most exterior surfaces, but it requires professional technique and expertise to avoid damage.
While pressure rinsing can be highly successful for removing spray paint, graffiti made with permanent markers may need more specialized care, such as rubbing alcohol or chemical removal solutions.
2. Rubbing Alcohol
Best for removing graffiti from: Small tags on smooth surfaces like signs, glass, metal, or plastic (plexiglass)
If scrubbing or pressure rinsing isn’t enough to remove the graffiti, rubbing alcohol can be an effective option for dissolving some types of paint.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning graffiti from your building with rubbing alcohol:
1. Gather your supplies:
You’ll need rubbing alcohol, a soft microfiber cloth, soap, and water to clean up any residue.
2. Test the area:
Before applying in large amounts, test the rubbing alcohol on a small area to make sure it doesn’t damage the surface.
3. Apply the alcohol:
Using the cloth, gently rub the alcohol over the graffiti. You may need to scrub more firmly for stubborn areas but be mindful of any paint jobs beneath the graffiti.
4. Clean the surface:
Once the graffiti is removed, wash the area with soap and water to remove any residue.
Rubbing alcohol is generally safe for non-porous surfaces like glass, metal, and plastics (think plexiglass). It’s also safer than acetone, a common paint remover chemical that can produce fumes and degrade many plastics.
However, it may not be effective for porous surfaces like brick walls, stone, or concrete.
3. Chemical Graffiti Remover
Best for removing graffiti from: Large, stubborn, or areas that require specialized care
If the above options don’t work, you may need to use a specialized graffiti remover. This is a chemical solution designed to break down graffiti using solvents that react with the paint, softening it and making it easier to lift off.
This method is best suited for robust surfaces like masonry, wood, or metal. However, the chemicals in graffiti remover may damage plastics like plexiglass or vinyl siding. It’s always a good idea to test it on an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface.
Many graffiti removal products are also flammable and release toxic fumes.2 So, it’s important to always follow the instructions listed on the bottle and use them with caution.
4. Paint Over it
Best for removing graffiti from: Painted surfaces where removal isn’t practical
If you’re having trouble removing graffiti from your building’s exterior, sometimes the best way to handle the problem without damaging the surface beneath is to simply paint it over.
A professional commercial paint job can fully conceal vandalism, boost curb appeal, and restore brand image for your business. There are even specialized anti-graffiti coatings that help prevent future graffiti from bonding to your building, making it easier to clean up in the future.
Contact Timmins Painting for Commercial Painting Services in Sonoma County
For businesses, graffiti is much more than a nuisance or an eyesore. It can lower curb appeal, damage reputations, and even cost you customers. Whether you need professional pressure rinsing services or would like to paint over it completely, the experts at Timmins Painting are here to give your building the refresh it needs.
Contact us online to claim your FREE painting estimate, or call (707)-792-0773 to get in touch with an expert today.
References
1. Survey details importance of a store’s external appearance. Chain Store Age. https://chainstoreage.com/real-estate/survey-details-importance-stores-external-appearance
2. Graffiti Removal Techniques. (n.d.). City of Milwaukee. https://city.milwaukee.gov/GraffitiRemoval