How to Remove Spray Paint from Concrete

Whether it was vandalism that made the spray marks appear on the concrete sidewalk, or it was some kid's experimentation with an old bottle of spray paint or a slip from you - the point is, those spray marks have been etched there, and they won't go unless you do something to remove them. But do you know how to remove spray paint from concrete? Let's not worry ourselves over that because this article is especially meant for those who want to know how to remove paint from concrete. So before anybody else finds out and busts you for spray painting the concrete, or bursts a blood vessel witnessing the graffiti, read on to know more about removing spray paint from concrete.

Removing Spray Paint

Water and Brush
After your initial shock has died down, go check if the paint is temporary or permanent. If it is temporary, then to dealing with the problem won't be a problem at all. Simply spray water from a hose pipe that is set on high pressure and then use a plastic brush to scrub the paint away. But if it is permanent then you'll need to employ other steps to deal with this problem and clean the area.

Use a Sandblaster
Sometimes it is very difficult to remove spray paint on uneven concrete. The spray paint tends to run and get stuck in all the holes and cracks of the concrete. In such a case, one could visit a construction rental store and rent a sandblaster. Make sure to rent protective goggles and a respirator as well, if you don't already have them. Take the sandblaster and use finely grated sand to blast off the spray paint that has embedded itself deep into the concrete. Always make sure to wear protective gear like goggles, respirator and clothes that fully cover and protect you, because sandblasting will create a localized breathing hazard. So taking precautions is a must.

Chemical Strippers
These cleaning products are available in a wide range across all departmental stores. Buy a chemical stripper and apply on a natural bristle brush (not plastic, it'll dissolve). Then scrub the area with that brush. Alternately, one can also pour the liquid onto the concrete and scrub with the brush to get rid of the marks. The chemical will break down the paint and it will be easier to brush it away. Chemical strippers work best on surfaces that are of relatively smooth concrete. Though they might end up trapping the spray paint in holes and crevices, if any. In which case, use a wire bristle brush to remove the spray paint by scrubbing it away.

Gel Stripper
Many people prefer to use a soy based gel stripper to remove the paint. This is done by staining or sealing the concrete. Take the gel and apply it all over the concrete that is stained. Let it soak for 5-10 minutes or as is given in the instructions and then scrub off with a brush. These gels help in peeling the paint as opposed to breaking the paint down. Therefore there are no side effects like there are from the usage of chemical strippers. Chemical strippers might end up adding pits to the concrete or it may develop blotches on the surface from which the spray paint was removed. So if you do not want to harm the concrete and want to adopt a safer method of removing the spray paint, then using a soy-based gel is the better choice.

Paint Thinner
Use any paint thinner and pour over the sprayed area. Let it soak for 30-40 minutes. Then scrub off with a hard brush. One can also dip an old towel and wipe the paint off.

Pressure Washer
Borrow or rent a pressure washer. These are available at some hardware stores (you'll have to inquire). Set the power level on at least 4,000 Pounds per square inch (PSI). Then secure the rotary tube nozzle tightly to the washer and use the high pressure spray to get rid of the paint.

Other Solutions
Apply an oven cleaner on the spot, then let it stay for sometime before scrubbing it off. One can also use one of these chemicals - Methylene Chloride, Methyl-Ethyl-Ketone, Sodium Hydroxide or Xylene. All of which need to be applied then allowed to stand and then scrubbed off.

These were some of the methods which can be used for successfully removing spray paint from concrete. But if one wants to prevent new stains from staining the concrete, then simply coat the area with a sealer such as Aliphatic Urethane. This will prevent the paint from seeping into the concrete crevices and also prevent discoloration.