The thought of coming to your property only to find that someone has used your vinyl siding as a canvas for graffiti is upsetting. Graffiti is a common problem in homes and businesses, and it can happen to anyone.
Keeping your vinyl siding clean and crisp is important not only for aesthetic reasons but also for preserving the value and longevity of your property. It also significantly impacts local businesses, potentially discouraging potential customers.
Fortunately, there are methods for removing spray paint from vinyl siding, and we’ll go over the best ways to do it in this article.
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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.
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Quick Answer
Here’s a quick and easy rundown of the methods for successful graffiti removal from your vinyl siding:
- Using laundry detergent
- Using dish soap
- Using mineral spirits
- Using graffiti remover
- Scrubbing paint with a brush or scraper
- Using alcohol to remove spray paint residue
- Rinse with a pressure washer
Quick questions before starting
Starting the removal process as soon as possible is critical to remove graffiti, but it’s important to understand the time, effort, and supplies needed.
How difficult is this to do?
In general, the task can be challenging, but it can be effectively removed with the right cleaning solutions and techniques.
How long does it take?
This varies depending on the stain’s age and the spray paint used. On average, completely removing the spray paint can take 15 minutes to several hours.
How materials do I need?
- Laundry detergent
- Dish soap
- Mineral spirits
- Commercial graffiti remover
- Soft-bristled brush
- Paint scraper
- Isopropyl or rubbing alcohol
- Pressure washer
How to remove spray paint from vinyl siding
The first step in the process is to apply the solution before moving on to scrubbing and rinsing.
As a precaution, whatever method you use, test it first in a small area to ensure that the solution will not damage the vinyl siding.
Let the product sit for more time, or you may need to apply more or less product, depending on the type of stain and how the surface reacts.
Using laundry detergent
To clean water-based spray paints, just mix one part laundry detergent with four parts warm water. To avoid discoloration, be careful not to use a detergent with bleach. Pour the solution onto a small section of the affected area and let it sit for about five minutes.
Using dish soap
This method works best when the paint is still wet. Simply mix a half-bucket of warm water with a few drops of dish soap and apply the solution to the affected area.
Using mineral spirits
This product is at the bottom of our list, but we’re including it in case it’s the only one you have handy. Pour a generous amount of solvent onto a clean cloth and apply it to the stained area for about 30 minutes, or until the paint bubbles, before scrubbing the area thoroughly.
Remember that mineral spirits belong to the same family of solvents as acetone, paint thinners, and lacquer thinners. And although it’s relatively safe, they are still highly flammable. Therefore, we always recommend using it with caution.
Using graffiti remover
If you have a particularly stubborn stain, the above DIY methods may not be enough, and you will need to use a commercial graffiti remover. Just be sure to select one that is vinyl-safe.
Spray the product for about 60 seconds on the stained area. The recommended time frames will vary depending on the product, so follow the instructions on the label.
After that, wipe the treated area with a clean cloth; however, in most cases, residue will remain, so proceed to the next steps.
It may be best to hire services to remove the graffiti from your vinyl siding for complex graffiti tasks. Professionals have access to specialized cleaning solutions and tools and know how to handle the whole process, from applying the cleaner to rinsing it off.
Scrubbing paint with a brush or scraper
When you’ve selected your solution of choice and applied it to the affected area, the next step is to scrub the surface with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap and water. Alternatively, the dried stain can be removed with a paint scraper. Be careful not to use a hard wire brush, as this could potentially scratch your vinyl siding.
Using alcohol to remove spray paint residue
Instead of mild soap and water, scrub the area with rubbing alcohol for an added boost. Isopropyl alcohol can be used to clean up oil-based spray paints. It’s more powerful for a more thorough clean.
Rinse with a pressure washer
After scrubbing the stained area, rinse it with a pressure washer as a final step, using gentle pressure to achieve a smooth and clean surface.
If you don’t know how to use a pressure washer, we have a detailed guide on how to start a pressure washer that you can read, which covers both gas and electric-powered machines.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some of the most common questions people have when they remove spray paint from vinyl siding.
If you have a question that isn’t answered here, please contact us, and someone from our team will get back to you.
Will acetone damage vinyl siding?
Yes, if you don’t use it right, acetone can damage vinyl siding. Use it in moderation and test the solution on a small area first.
Will paint thinner hurt vinyl siding?
Like acetone, paint thinners are solvents and may cause layer degradation, damage, and discoloring.
Is Goo Gone safe on vinyl siding?
Yes, Goo Gone removers are safe for vinyl siding and can remove graffiti without causing any damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, spray paint removal can be done using numerous methods, including water and soap, solvents, commercial graffiti removers, and professional services. Each method comes with its own costs. While DIY methods may be more budget-friendly, they may not be effective for complex removal projects.
Hiring professional services may appear more expensive, but it provides a more efficient solution with guaranteed results. Ultimately, the cost of removing graffiti from vinyl siding will depend on the amount of paint to remove.
