Q Do you have tips for removing graffiti? Is there something that can be applied that will make a wall graffiti-proof?
A There are paints and coatings that will make it easier to remove graffiti. One example is the anti-graffiti coating from Ecological Coatings (www.ecologicalcoatings.com). Check yellow-page directories or look online for others. In addition, Minneapolis has suggestions for discouraging graffiti vandals (www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/graffiti).
To remove graffiti, Minneapolis offers the following tips for:
Painted surfaces: Apply a stain-killing primer or pigmented shellac. This will keep the graffiti from bleeding through fresh paint. Repaint the surface with a color that closely matches the original surface.
Unpainted surfaces: Use extra-strength paint remover or graffiti remover. Apply with a wire brush, allow to set and then rinse with water.
Stucco: Use paint remover, and then wash it off with a high-pressure water hose. Or use stucco paint to cover the graffiti thoroughly.
Metal, aluminum siding, fiberglass: Use carburetor cleaner. Or use paint remover sparingly and then rinse carefully.
Vinyl siding: Solvents might work too aggressively and remove the vinyl coating. Use paint remover sparingly. Use a clean rag and keep applying the clean dry rag with every light wipe. If the solvent is allowed to stay for even a short period, it will penetrate and you might have to repaint. Use primer to match and then matching paint to adhere to the vinyl for restoration.
