Removing Paint from Brick – Best Practice Guide
If you have tried removing paint from brickwork you will know just how tedious a process it can be! Depending on how large the area is, it could take you several hours to days to completely remove it. Considering the time and effort involved, this is almost a no-go zone for most homeowners. But you don’t always have to put yourself through too much work and mess; there are now more improved methods and specialist products that help you get rid of the paint without spending too much time and effort. So what is the best way of removing paint from brick? Read or informative article to find out more.
Why is it so hard to remove paint from brick?
A brick is a naturally porous material, meaning any paint applied to it either in error or vandalism will find its way into the pores. This makes it very difficult to get remove paint when it’s soaked in. Sometimes, removing normal acrylic paint from varying surfaces can pose a challenge whilst removing masonry paint, which is generally more resistant to cleaning products can be even more difficult. It will take aggressive cleaning and toxic agents to do the job, but this may damage your brickwork and pose a risk to your health if not done with care.
Eco Solutions Paint Remover and Graffiti Go are water-based, non-toxic removal products that will enable you to quickly and efficiently remove paint from all types of surfaces. One product does all and no other products are needed for pre or after-treatment.
Eco Solutions Paint Remover and Graffiti Go Product Features
Water-based – “Tough not toxic” – Non-Hazardous – Non-Toxic – Non-Caustic – Non-Flammable – PH Neutral – No Fumes – No Skin Burns – Product requires no ventilation – No H (hazard) or P (precautionary) statements on the label.
Eco Solutions Paint Remover and Graffiti Go Removes
Lead-based paints – Oil-based paints – Solvent-based paints –Water-based paints & emulsions – Polyurethanes- Stains – Varnishes and waxes – Fire-resistant paints – Rust-preventative surface coatings.
The products are ideal for use on all types of surfaces including:
Wood (hard & soft) – Marble – Stone – Brick – Concrete – Plaster – Ceramic Tiles – GRP – Aluminium, Brass, Cast Iron and other soft metals.
Traditional Ways to Remove Paint from Brick Using Paint Stripper
Use the following step-by-step guide to get rid of paint on your brick:
Test the paint on the brick
Before you start the removal process, you need to know the nature of the paint you’re dealing with. Apply your paint stripper on a small area of the paint on the brickwork to gauge how well the stripper works, as well as the state of the bricks after the process. This will also give you a good idea of the work and time you will need to remove the whole area. If you’re working on an old property, you should always test for lead to check if there is any residue.
Instead of using a traditional toxic paint stripper use Eco Solutions Paint Remover or Graffiti Go. You won’t need to worry about scrubbing or making a mess as you apply it, leave it to work its magic and then wash it away. Both products make removing paint quick and easy with minimal mess and you know there are no hazardous ingredients that will cause a problem for your skin or breathing. It won’t damage the surface you are removing paint from but as with all products always test on a small area first.
Prepare the space
The next step is to set up your workspace for the paint removal. Find any old sheets in your home and lay them down at the base of the wall to catch any debris or paint falling down. You may alternatively opt for a strong plastic sheet, depending on what is available or old newspapers. Secure the corners of the sheet so that it is securely next to the brickwork.
Wear protective gear
Your safety should always be a priority before taking on any project like this. In any case, you don’t want your skin exposed to the paint stripper whilst working, so wear protective clothing like an overall, goggles, dust mask, etc. Eco Solutions Paint Remover or Graffiti Go are both water-based with no hazardous ingredients but it can be a messy job so it’s a good idea to wear old clothes and protection. These will also prevent any old paint or debris from getting into your eyes and mouth if you need to use a wire brush on the brickwork to remove any deeply engrained stubborn areas.
Apply the Eco Solutions Paint Remover or Graffiti Go
Eco Solutions paint remover is best used by coating a paintbrush with the product covering the area of paint you want to remove. Graffiti Go comes in a spray bottle so can be sprayed on the area. Leave both of them to work following the guidelines on the packing. Test it on a small area first and then when you are happy with the finish. Leave it for the required amount of dwell time and then remove the unwanted paint or graffiti using warm water and a wire brush and gently work it out of the brickwork.
Start by applying the product on a small section and gradually increase the area of application to allow the stripper to get rid of the paint on one area as you work to remove it on the other.
Remove the stripped paint
Allow the product to work on the paint for as long as directed. When it’s time, start removing the paint from the top and work your way across the brickwork. In case of any stubborn patches, you might need to reapply the stripper. Remember to clear any old paint on the brick before reapplying the product. Use warm water to remove the paint and product residue.
Once everything has dried, you will have a pristine brick wall again.
What is the best paint stripper for bricks?
If you’re working on a large area, such as the exterior wall of a house, use our safe and effective Paint Remover or Graffiti Go product. Another option is to employ someone to sandblast the brick or use chemicals to remove it, this process is best left to an expert as it involves heavy-duty tools, equipment and toxic products that you need to have experience of.
What are the benefits of removing paint from brick?
There are lots of benefits when you remove paint from your brickwork, including:
Breathability – Considering brick is porous, removing the paint allows them to breathe more naturally. This makes them last longer while maintaining their appearance.
Cost saving – Removing paint or graffiti from bricks helps to keep your bricks in good condition, which saves you maintenance and repairs in the future.
Property value – Restoring the original appearance of your brickwork helps to improve the appearance and outlook of your property, which can be an advantage when you decide to sell your house and its general appeal.
Can I clean my painted brick without professional help?
If you have the knowledge, tools and effective products needed to easily remove paint from bricks, you can carry out the task on your own. Using Eco Solutions Paint Remover or Graffiti Go products will make the job quick, effective and easy for you to do rather than employing someone to do it for you.
How much does a professional tradesperson charge?
The price of a professional tradesperson can vary from one person to another and every job is different so if you decide to find someone to do it for you, always get a couple of quotes. A typical quote should include the brick cleaning itself and the contractor should consider factors like the condition of your brickwork, the equipment and team needed to complete the job, and the location of your property.
Can I paint over graffiti?
You can paint over graffiti, however, often the graffiti will show through. the paint over time even after a couple of coats. You should always remove the graffiti first before painting.
Conclusion
If you are trying to restore the look of your property by cleaning, removing graffiti or removing paint from brick then use our simple guide and the Eco Solutions Paint Remover or Graffiti Go products to do the job easily, quickly and effectively.
You can find a list of our stockists near you here and find out more about our range of safe, water-based and non-toxic products here.