Graffiti Removal 101: Essential Steps for a Successful Cleanup

There’s no doubt that graffiti can be a significant eyesore for homeowners and business owners alike. Whether it’s a simple tag or an elaborate mural, unwanted graffiti can lower property values, deter customers, and create a negative perception of the area.

The good news however is that with the right approach, and equipment, removing graffiti can be straightforward and effective.

If you find yourself looking at graffiti on your home or business, we’ve got some essential steps for a successful cleanup, whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional company.

Assess the Situation

When you first notice graffiti on your property, it can be disappointing and you may just want to get stuck in and start cleaning, but before diving into the removal process, it’s crucial to assess the extent and type of graffiti. This involves:

Identifying the Surface Material: Different surfaces (brick, metal, wood, glass) require different cleaning methods.
Determining the Type of Paint or Marker Used: Spray paint, markers, and other materials can behave differently under various cleaning methods.
Evaluating the Size of the Graffiti: Large-scale graffiti might need professional help, while smaller tags can often be managed independently.

Understanding these factors will help you choose the most appropriate removal method and avoid further damage to the property.

Gather Necessary Supplies

If you’ve decided to DIY removal, there are several tools and supplies you will need to assist you in the task, including:

Protective Gear: Gloves, masks, and eye protection to keep yourself safe from chemicals.
Cleaning Products: Solvents, graffiti removers, or household items like baking soda and vinegar.
Scrubbing Tools: Wire brushes, scrubbers, or pressure washers.
Paints and Sealants: For touch-ups after graffiti removal.

Ensure you have all the necessary supplies before starting the cleanup to avoid interruptions. If you aren’t sure what product is best for your needs, a visit to your local hardware store will allow you to chat with people who know the products best and who can recommend the cleaning product that is best for your needs.

Test a Small Area

Like most things, testing a small area is essential. Before applying any cleaning product to the entire graffiti-covered surface, it’s wise to test it on a small, inconspicuous area.

This helps to ensure that the cleaner won’t cause damage or discoloration. If the test area shows no adverse effects, you’ll know that you can safely proceed with the full removal.

Apply the Graffiti Remover

Applying the graffiti remover is the time you’ll need to put in the most work but it does mean that the graffiti will soon be gone. The type of graffiti remover you use will depend on the surface and the graffiti material. Follow these general guidelines:

For Spray Paint on Brick or Concrete: Use a heavy-duty graffiti remover. Apply it generously, let it sit for the recommended time, and then scrub with a stiff-bristle brush.
For Metal Surfaces: Use a solvent like acetone or a commercial graffiti remover. Wipe the surface clean with a rag after application.
For Painted Wood: Be careful with solvents, as they can strip the paint. Use a mild remover and scrub gently.
For Glass: A razor blade scraper can be effective, followed by a glass cleaner.

We also recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

Scrub and Rinse

After applying the graffiti remover, it’s time to scrub the area. Depending on the surface, you will need a wire brush, scrubber, or pressure washer. For stubborn graffiti, you may find that multiple applications and scrubbing sessions are needed. Once the graffiti is removed, rinse the area thoroughly with water to remove any residue from the cleaning agents.

Consider a Fresh Coat of Paint

Unfortunately, graffiti can leave behind stains or shadows that are difficult to remove entirely. If this happens, it is best to repaint the affected area. We always recommend choosing a high-quality, graffiti-resistant paint to make future cleanups easier. Applying a sealant can also protect the surface from further graffiti.

Prevent Future Graffiti

Prevention is key to minimising future graffiti incidents. Next time you paint your external walls or fencing, it is highly recommended to use a graffiti-resistant paint to minimise the process should your property be tagged in the future. Here are some other strategies to consider:

Anti-Graffiti Coatings: Apply clear coatings that make it easier to remove graffiti without damaging the underlying surface.
Lighting and Surveillance: Well-lit areas and security cameras generally deter vandals.
Landscaping: Installing fences can make surfaces less accessible to graffiti artists.

How Long Does Graffiti Removal Take?

The time it takes to remove graffiti can vary significantly based on several factors, including the size and complexity of the graffiti, the surface material, the type of material used, and the method used for removal. Here are some general guidelines:

Small and Simple Graffiti – 30 minutes to 2 hours
Medium-Sized Graffiti – Timeframe: 2 to 4 hours
Large or Complex Graffiti – Timeframe: 1 day to several days
Professional Removal – Timeframe: Few hours to a full day

When to Call Professionals

While DIY methods can be effective for smaller graffiti problems, there are certain situations where professional help is advisable. If you find yourself in the position of dealing with the below issues, at FCT Cleaning we have the expertise to restore your property back to its original state.

Large-Scale Graffiti: Extensive graffiti can be time-consuming and challenging to remove without the right equipment.
Sensitive Surfaces: Historical buildings, delicate materials, or surfaces with significant damage may require expert handling.
Persistent Issues: If graffiti is a recurring problem, professional services can offer more durable solutions, including advanced coatings and deterrents.

Graffiti removal doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right approach and tools, homeowners and business owners can effectively restore their property’s appearance.

FCT provides high-quality graffiti removal and cleaning services to Perth and surrounding areas. We have proudly held the government contract for graffiti removal since 1994. Our team is proficient in using the correct safety procedures when conducting graffiti removal. We are fully insured and pride ourselves on ensuring the work area is clean and tidy when we finish.

By staying proactive and vigilant, you can keep your property graffiti-free and maintain its value and appeal.