Pressure Washing Paint Away on Concrete (4 Simple Steps)

Cody
Published by: | Updated: January 23, 2023
JCS Refresh will a pressure washer remove paint from concrete

Did you spill paint on your driveway? 

Removing paint is a tedious task that’s pretty annoying. Fortunately, we have machines to help us save time!

In this article, we’ll discuss removing paint from concrete with a pressure washer and other related questions.

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About The Author

Meet the expert behind this article. 

cody-jcs-refresh-pressure-washing-3

Cody

Co-owner & Service Director

Hey there, I’m Cody. 

A decade of residential and commercial pressure washing led me to start JCS Refresh. Now I can share my knowledge with folks like you. 

Reading from Washington State?

Contact our team for a quote and you might meet me in person.

Will a pressure washer remove paint from concrete?

Yes, you can remove paint from concrete from a pressure washer. 

The intense pressure also removes dirt buildup, oil, and grease. However, there are some key aspects to keep in mind while working.

JCS Refresh will a pressure washer remove paint from concrete

How to get dried paint off of concrete

This section will explain the process of removing dried paint from concrete. But first, let’s secure the materials and tools.

Items needed:

  • Pressure washer
  • Paint Stripper
  • Hose

Once you’ve secured all the items, let’s proceed:

1. Prepare the area

Remove any hurdles you might encounter while washing, such as furniture. For example, ensure that fragile objects and fixtures are covered with a tarp or sheet.

Also, close the doors and windows because the paint stripper releases harmful fumes that may enter your house.

JCS Refresh will a pressure washer remove paint from concrete (2)

2. Apply the appropriate paint stripper

Once the area is cleared, apply the paint stripper, softening the paint, making it easier to peel off later.

However, there are two types of paint: water-based and oil-based. Ensure you’ve bought a suitable paint stripper for the job. 

Apply it directly on the concrete and let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes.

If you want to explore alternatives, buy an eco-friendly stripper or apply some vinegar. Boil a cup of white vinegar and spread evenly; let it soak and wait until the paint bubbles.

3. Rinse the paint with a pressure washer

Once the paint starts to bubble, you can rinse it with a pressure washer. Set the PSI to 3,000 and utilize a sweeping motion to avoid marks. Use a yellow 15-degree nozzle tip.

If you’re unsure of the pressure, try it on a small area first. Also, keep the gun tip 12 to 18 inches away from the surface.

JCS Refresh will a pressure washer remove paint from concrete

Frequently asked questions

Check out some frequently asked questions below:

How do I get paint off concrete without chemicals?

If you don’t want the toxic solution for your cleaning project, you can use the following:

  • Hot Vinegar Method – boil a cup of white vinegar and then generously apply it on the paint using a paintbrush or dab it with a sponge. Let it sit for 15 minutes, scrape and rinse.
  • Citrus Based Cleaners
  • Soy Based Gel Paint Stripper
  • Sandblaster – but before using this method, assess the condition of the concrete surface
  • Surface Grinder

How do I remove latex paint from my concrete driveway?

To remove latex paint, secure a paint stripper of your choice. Then, clean and prepare the area before applying the stripper. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the extent of the spilled paint.

After that, you can remove it using 3,000 PSI. Then, if you don’t have a pressure washer, take it off using a scraper and rinse it.

How do I remove drips from concrete?

Use a solution of methylated spirits on the paint with a long-handled brush but work swiftly because the answer can dry once applied. Then, rinse the area carefully with water.

Will bleach remove spray paint from concrete?

Bleach can effectively remove most types of paint; however, bleach lightens and stains the concrete, damaging the aesthetic appeal or overall exterior of your concrete.

Conclusion

No need to worry about paint that has dried on concrete; you can save time and enjoy your day!

We hope this article has served you well and you can be on your way to removing paint with a pressure washer

Thank you for reading!