How to Remove Paint from Concrete

There are a couple of ways to remove paint from concrete, though none are quick and easy. The most common way to remove paint is by applying a chemical stripper. Here is how to choose one and remove the paint from your concrete.

• Paint Stripper (see guidelines below on choosing one)
• Scrub brush
• Soft cloths
• Hose

1. All paint companies that make paint, also make products to remove that paint. If you are unsuccessful with traditional strippers such as turpentine or mineral spirits, it is best to contact the manufacturer to see what they recommend. There should be a contact number on the can of paint that can be used to reach customer service. Explain the material you are trying to remove paint from and they will tell you the appropriate product to use.
2. Once selected, the stripper will need to be applied per the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. In most cases, the stripper is applied to the surface and allowed to set for a predetermined amount of time.
4. After the stripper has set, the paint will likely need to be scrubbed off.
5. Once the paint is removed, the entire area needs to be cleaned and washed to remove any remaining residue.

• There are soy-based gel cleaners available that are non-toxic and much easier on the environment than some of the more traditional strippers. The gel is spread onto the paint and allowed to set. Then it is wiped off and the paint comes right off. Since it’s a gel, it can be moved to a new spot and reused. Therefore, it takes less product to strip a larger area.
• Power washers are another option that are commonly used to remove paint. The pressure from the water removes the paint from the surface of the concrete without any chemicals.