Sometimes, homeowners will choose to paint the concrete foundation blocks of their home to freshen its appearance. If you have moved into a home where the previous owners chose a house paint in which this idea went horribly wrong, you may be considering methods of paint removal from concrete. While various methods such as sandblasting and power washing may work, the most thorough and trusted method is through the use of a chemical paint stripper.
What You Will Need:
– Chemical paint stripper
– Protective gear as described on the label of the substance
– Paint brush or air-free paint sprayer
– Scraper or squeegee
– Bucket and mop
Paint Removal From Concrete
1. After donning complete protective gear, apply the paint stripper to the paint using the brush or paint sprayer. Don’t use a roller, as it tends to have more back splatter and can be dangerous.
2. Once the layer wrinkles, it is ready to be removed. Use the scraper or squeegee to remove the stripper. A hose or power washer may be used for this step, but it can make for tougher cleanup in the yard or driveway. Run-off from chemicals can also contaminate local waterways.
3. Some paint may be left over after this step. Re-apply the paint stripper and repeat the process until all paint is removed.
4. After all paint is removed, fill a bucket with fresh water and mop the concrete clean.
Taking on a project of this magnitude can be intimidating. The perceived permanence of both concrete and paint may make it seem altogether impossible. With a little elbow grease and the proper precautions, you can increase the look of various pieces of concrete around your home immensely.
Too Much Work?
If solving the process of paint removal from concrete seems like more of a project than you want to handle, a qualified handyman can help you out. TalkLocal can find you one in your area quickly. Our service is completely free, and we can have you speaking with a qualified handyman in minutes.
