Graffiti is defined as any type of public marking that appear in forms of writing or painting. Creating graffiti on public property like buildings, walls, fences or posters is a punishable crime since it is considered to be vandalism. Spray paint and marker pens are most commonly used to create graffiti. Here are some tips that help you with graffiti removal on your property.

Surfaces

The important aspect to keep in mind while trying to remove graffiti is the type of the surface that is affected. Proper care should be taken during graffiti removal to make sure that the surface does not erode or get damaged. Make sure to erase the paint within 24 hours.

Brick Walls

Use extra strength paint or graffiti remover for brick or concrete walls. The paint probably has worked its way into the holes and pores so use a wire brush to reach in and allow it to stay for 15 minutes before washing it off with a high speed stream of water to forcefully remove it. Using eggshell and oil based paints on painted bricks will give a smoother surface and protect it from future damage. Use thinners and acetone to remove paint and marker ink from wood surfaces. Wipe off the solvent with a clean rag.

Glass and Metal Surfaces

A razor blade can be used to scrape off paint from glass. Use solvent on paint for graffiti removal and wipe off immediately with a clean rag and rinse thoroughly. Be careful with lacquer thinner type solvent on Plexiglas as it can potentially make the surface foggy and smeared. On surfaces like fiberglass, use acetone based solvents but be careful and test it on a small area first as it may dissolve the plastic. On unpainted metal surfaces like iron or steel, any type of solvent can be used. But certain aluminum surfaces can oxidize when they come in contact with strong solvents like lacquer.

Painting

If the extent of damage on your property is large then it is cheaper to repaint the whole wall. You can use this opportunity to apply paint resistant coat on your walls and keep it safe from future damage as well. Choose a glossy enamel paint to protect your wall from damage and make sure to keep an extra gallon of paint in case you are a victim again. Always thoroughly clean the surface of any dirt or grease as it may damage the paint that you coat freshly. For effective graffiti removal, use a stain blocker to prevent permanent ink from absorbing paint and spoiling the fresh coat of paint. If the graffiti paint is darker than the wall color, use the stain blocker first to prevent it from seeping through.

Etching

Surfaces that are scratched or damaged with sharp objects should be first filled to make a uniform surface and then painted. Replace damaged glass surfaces with foggy surfaces to avoid attracting more attention. Be careful while using solvents during graffiti removal as they are highly flammable and release toxic substances.