Graffiti Removal
Graffiti Removal Options
Rapid removal of graffiti is the most important thing you can do to prevent graffiti from reappearing. It is strongly recommended that you remove graffiti within 24 hours as it's easier to remove if done within this timeframe.
There are several ways to remove graffiti and a large range of available products on the market.
Please note: Council does not endorse any particular product or manufacturer.
- graffiti shows up more on light-coloured surfaces so painting over the surface in a dark colour would be most appropriate
- apply chemicals that are designed to remove graffiti or use solvents that help remove paint (contact your nearest hardware store for products)
- water-blasting
Paint it out
If the graffiti is on a painted surface, sometimes it’s easiest to paint over it. Remove as much of the graffiti as possible before painting. Some graffiti markers tend to seep through the new coat of paint so use a sealer coat before painting the whole surface.
Do a test on a small area first to see if this will happen.
Chemical removal
The most efficient chemical method is to use a product designed specifically to remove graffiti, which is available from many hardware stores. Liquid cleansers, eucalyptus oil, solvents and mineral turpentine can be effective. Also, sometimes graffiti can be removed with liquid laundry or dishwashing detergent. These may remove felt pen graffiti from glass, aluminium, smooth cement and similar surfaces.
If the graffiti writer has used aerosol paint on an unpainted surface, be sure to act quickly. Paint will quickly penetrate absorbent surfaces like porous brickwork and be very difficult to remove.
Please note: Whatever chemical you use, make sure you follow the safety procedures recommended by the manufacturer.
Solvents & other products
It is possible to remove graffiti from your own property with the help of specialist products. New and improved graffiti removal products regularly appear on the market. Call your local hardware store to check on current availability. Always ask for the least toxic product to protect yourself from harm while removing graffiti.
Some examples of graffiti removal products readily available:
- Graffiti Attack
- Goodbye Graffiti
- Muck off
- Graffiti Off
- So-Safe Graffiti Remover
As these products may contain toxic substances, please take all precautions recommended by the manufacturer. Mechanical removal
Look in the Yellow Pages under Cleaning Contractors. If you want to remove extensive aerosol graffiti from an unpainted surface, it may be best to have it professionally dealt with.
Protective coatings
Protective coatings provide a physical barrier that helps to reduce permanent damage or discolouration of the original surface. Anti-graffiti coatings make it easier to clean subsequent graffiti from surfaces and help to ensure rapid removal of graffiti.
Anti-graffiti coatings may be temporary or permanent.
- Temporary coatings are removed, or 'sacrificed' in the graffiti removal process and the surface must be recoated to ensure ongoing protection
- Permanent coatings are more resistant to the products used to remove graffiti and remain on the surface after the graffiti removal process.
Search the Yellow Pages for 'anti-graffiti coating' to identify companies that sell and apply anti-graffiti coatings.
Need More Information?
Please contact Lake Macquarie City Council’s Customer Service Centre on 02 4921 0333