Graffiti Removal Tips for Plastic, Metal, Wood, and Masonry
Finding graffiti on your property is a frustrating experience. Trying to get it off can be even worse. The good news is that there are graffiti removal tips and graffiti removal tools that can help you. Read on to learn more about them and then reach out to Geyser Equipment at 951-509-9269. We’re here to help you get the tools and equipment that will work for your needs.
Not all surfaces need the same treatment
One of the most important things to know is that not all surfaces are treated the same. What will work on wood won’t necessarily work on plastic. This is why it’s wise to be wary of any one-size-fits-all solutions to graffiti removal. We have broken down the basic directions for the four most common surfaces that get tagged with graffiti: Plastic, metal, wood, and masonry.
Graffiti removal tips for plastic
First, get a light, penetrating oil and try to wipe the graffiti. Never use a paint thinner because it can actually soften the plastic. This can lead to clouding or to the paint becoming permanently tacky. You can then try a bronze wool or ultra-fine steel wool to lightly rub at the paint. If this doesn’t work, then try the World’s Best graffiti removal system.
Graffiti removal tips for metal surfaces
First of all, grab some paint thinner and try to wipe it off. Depending on what you have on hand, you may use lacquer thinner, WD40, mineral spirits, or acetone. You can also try products made specifically for removing graffiti, such as a light penetrating oil. If you still have graffiti showing then it’s time to try rubbing it with steel or bronze wool. You can also try a light sandpaper. Finally, get out a power washer with 3000psi and get rid of it quickly.
Graffiti removal tips for wood surfaces
If you have wood that isn’t weathered but is sealed, then you can try using mineral spirits. If the wood is indeed weathered then you don’t want to use that method because the chemicals can end up absorbed into the wood and subsequently get the pain further into the wood. If that doesn’t work, use a 3000psi pressure washer. Just be careful with this method as you want to ensure you’re not pushing the paint deeper into the surface of the wood.
Graffiti removal tips for masonry surfaces
We recommend starting out with a 3000psi pressure washer if you’re working with a masonry surface. Make sure you that you’re not using a narrow tip or you could end up etching the surface with an outline of the graffiti. You can also try sand blasting. If you decide on this option, keep the tip constantly moving over the area that’s been painted with graffiti so that you won’t mark the surface permanently.
The key to graffiti removal is twofold: Get to it within 24 or 48 hours and use the right equipment. At Geyser Equipment, we can help you with the latter. Reach out to us at 951-509-9269 to learn more.
