How To Remove Graffiti From Vinyl Fencing

Many homeowners have experienced the sinking feeling of walking outside only to be greeted by the work of vandals – graffiti. If it's on wood fencing, you can paint over it as it is, resulting in an obvious fix, or spend hours sanding or pressure washing it off and repainting the entire fence so it looks like new again. Fortunately, the process is much simpler on a vinyl fence. This guide can help you through the process.

Gather Your Tools:

• Paint brush – natural bristles work well

• Lacquer thinner

• Acetone

• Rags

• Mild hand dishwashing soap

• Large non-abrasive sponge

You may also want to wear gloves, long sleeves, and goggles. Paint thinner chemicals can cause eye and skin irritation, so it's better to be safe rather than sorry.

The Basic Process

Step 1:Mix up dishwashing soap with water in a bucket, bowl or spray bottle so you have it ready and waiting. Although there is no rule on the amount, you can use about one part soap to four parts water, since you want a nice and sudsy mixture to ensure it can quickly remove the chemicals on your fence.

Step 2: Dip the paint brush into the lacquer thinner and paint it over the graffiti. It's okay if it extends a little bit beyond the paint, but don't cover the whole fence with the thinner because it can eat into the vinyl. A thin coat, mainly over the graffiti, will do the least damage.

Step 3: Wait 10 to 15 minutes so the thinner can do its job. Grab the rag and begin wiping off the graffiti, making the strokes in one direction only. This cuts down on smearing. Make sure you wipe off all the thinner before moving on.

Step 4: If paint remains or if it doesn't come off at all, you will need to use the acetone. Moisten a clean rag with the acetone and work carefully, only blotting the area with the graffiti. Acetone can cause major damage to the fence if it is overused or allowed to sit on the surface for too long, so work quickly.

Step 5: Dip your sponge into the soapy water and begin rinsing. Make sure all the paint thinners are removed.

Timely Tips

• If the paint thinners ruin the shine on your fence, you can paint the panel with a clear sealant to bring back the shine so the damage isn't as noticeable.

• Cover bushes and plants along the fence line with a tarp to protect them from the chemicals you are using to remove the graffiti.