How to Remove Paint from Vinyl Siding

It is not recommended that vinyl siding be painted as the paint cannot adhere to the surface very well, which you may have already discovered if you are now facing a wall of peeling paint. Luckily, that will be helpful for removing the paint more easily. Follow the steps below for your type of paint.

You Will Need:

• Mild laundry detergent
• Water
• A bowl
• A cloth
• A soft-bristle brush
• Isopropyl alcohol

Steps to Remove the Paint:

1. Mix a few drops of mild laundry detergent (bleach-free basic detergent, such as Woolite or Dreft) with water in a bowl.
2. Dip a cloth of soft-bristle scrub brush in the soapy water, then gently scrub off the paint. If the paint spot is small, an old toothbrush or nail brush can work well.
3. If the paint does not easily come off with some scrubbing, rinse off the area with water.
4. Dip a soft cloth in isopropyl alcohol and use it to rub the paint until it’s gone.
5. Rinse the area thoroughly afterward to remove any residue from the alcohol.

You Will Need:

• Mineral spirits
• A cloth
• A soft-bristle brush

Steps to Remove the Paint:

1. Wipe the mineral spirits over the paint with a cloth.
2. Let the mineral spirits sit on the paint for a few minutes.
3. Scrub the paint with a soft-bristle scrub brush.
4. Repeat the process as many times as needed for the paint to be removed.

You Will Need:

• Graffiti Remover

Steps to Remove the Spray Paint:

1. Get a graffiti remover that is safe for vinyl, such as Motsenbockers #4.
2. Follow the instructions on the label of your selected product.

• Be sure to use a cloth that is for cleaning-only, as the paint will likely transfer to it and possibly stain.
• It is always best to test a cleaning solution on a small hidden area first to look for any adverse effects.
• If you want to paint vinyl siding, it should be sanded first for the paint to adhere properly. Also, latex paint is best, preferably one that has a large solid content.

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