6 Steps to Remove Concrete Coatings
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1-5 hours
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Beginner
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- 0-100
Because concrete is highly porous, protective coating and sealant may seep into the holes. This protects the concrete but also makes it quite difficult to remove at a later stage should you opt for a change. This article will address how to remove concrete coatings in just a few easy steps.
Step 1 - Take Precautions
Wear goggles and safety clothing. Make sure the air purifier is sufficient and working correctly. If you have plants in the room or area, cover them with drop cloths. Keep children and pets away from your work area as strippers may burn and leave welts on bare skin.
Step 2 - Select Remover
Purchase a concrete paint stripper or sealant remover from a hardware or a DIY store. Shake well before opening. Once you open it, stir vigorously.
Next, simply pour the substance into a paint tray. If you are using an airless sprayer, pour the liquid directly inside.
Step 3 - Test
Apply some of the remover to a small area on the wall. This will establish if the combination you have purchased is suitable for the job. It will also help determine the length of time you need for the mixture to work effectively. Once you have an idea of how long it takes to remove the paint, you can begin work on a larger area.
Step 4 - Apply
Cover an area that can be completed before the mixture dries out. For best results, use a paintbrush and not a roller, as rollers can cause the mixture to splash back onto your skin. These mixtures are highly toxic and can cause some severe reactions if inhaled or placed directly onto the skin. Make sure you apply a thick layer and all the paint is thoroughly covered.
Step 5 - Remove
When the paint starts to wrinkle, it is ready to come off of the wall. Just use your scraper to dig in. Don’t be surprised if you have to apply additional coats to remove all the paint. The wrinkled paint may also leave a residue.
Step 6 - Rinse
Once all the paint and remover has been scraped away, rinse the surface down with cool water. This will help get rid of any remaining residue on the wall. Let the wall dry thoroughly before you apply any new paint.
