Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Graffiti Removal – 3 Tips For Success


Graffiti removal methods will vary depending on the surface being cleaned. Before you start, remember that:

* The sooner the graffiti is removed, the less chance that other graffiti artists will leave their “tag” on your wall.
* Always use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, protective eyewear, etc. and cover all exposed skin when removing any graffiti using any chemicals, solvents, etc.
* Use non-toxic chemicals where possible and use the gentlest method of removal so that your surface is not damaged. Always read product labels and follow manufacturer’s advice and recommendations.
* Always test a small area not easily seen before trying to remove graffiti

If in doubt, talk to a professional who will be able to remove the graffiti without leaving any traces behind

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To try and remove the graffiti from various services yourself, use the tips below:

Painted Surfaces

Painting over graffiti is a low-cost solution to removing graffiti and is effective when a surface has been previously painted. Graffiti is usually found on lightly painted surfaces as the “taggers” work stands out more on a light surface. Because of this, it is best to repaint the entire surface area with a dark colour as this will be less attractive to graffiti vandals. If this is not possible, paint the whole area in a matching colour so that a patchwork or billboard effect isn’t created on your wall as it will make a great canvas and will invite more graffiti. Not painting the area in full shows that you have had previous graffiti and may attract other graffiti artists.

Before you start to paint, test a small area first to see if the graffiti will “bleed” through the paint. If this happens, a sealer should be used before painting.

If your painted surface is prone to regular graffiti attacks, it may be worthwhile to apply an Anti-Graffiti Protective Coating which aims to prevent graffiti from soaking into the surface. This will not stop the graffiti from being “tagged” on your wall, but may deter the “taggers” and make the graffiti easier to be removed in the future. Some graffiti coatings can be toxic and should be applied by a specialist, so talk to you local graffiti removal technician for the various coating options that may be available.

Unpainted Surfaces

If you have light graffiti on an unpainted surface, you must ensure you act quickly as the graffiti can penetrate into the surface making it much harder for it to be fully removed. Raw masonry surfaces are always a favourite target of taggers. Try a solvent remover, waiting 3 to 5 minutes before agitating with a wire brush then washing away from surface.

If the area has heavy graffiti, a paint stripper may need to be applied to the surface when dry, waiting 3 to 5 minutes before agitating with a wire brush and washing away from surface.

Always read product labels and use as to manufacturer’s advice and recommendations.