What is the best way to get rid of graffiti?

We’ve all seen graffiti on walls and buildings, and it isn’t a problem that’s going anywhere soon. From small phrases to larger, more elaborate displays, graffiti is often justified as being a form of self-expression, but the reality is that it is very damaging to the buildings and walls on which it is displayed. Whether it is created in the name of street art or a platform to showcase political protest, graffiti is generally perceived as vandalism that can be unsightly for those who live or work nearby. What’s more, it’s extremely difficult to clean off and doing so can be a long, arduous process. Here we look at the best way to tackle graffiti removal, who is responsible for organising it and how seeking the advice of experts can save you both time and money.

Why should you get graffiti removed?

Even in its most innocent form, graffiti is classed as vandalism that has the potential to offend people and create an unfavourable environment. This is why the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 states that the person responsible for the surface on which graffiti is displayed is also the individual in charge of its removal. Even if the display is minimal, its appearance can hinder the aesthetics of the local area and is illegal if it is done without the permission of the property owner. What’s more, if the content of the graffiti is offensive, it has the capacity to damage the reputation of the building on which it is exhibited. If someone has taken it upon themselves to scrawl offensive language outside a shop, for example, it could harm the reputation of the business since first impressions count for a lot. It’s therefore a priority that graffiti removal is actioned quickly, especially if the content is unpleasant or creates a safety hazard by obstructing signage or important information.

Can you remove graffiti yourself?

Graffiti removal is a big task and can divert people’s resources from the job they’re paid to do. However, it is possible with the right equipment and knowledge if you’re prepared to put the time in. As much as using a high-pressure system might seem the best way to attempt the clean-up operation, it can damage certain materials so it’s worth researching first. Products containing baking soda are considered to be effective on most surfaces including brick and concrete but must still be applied with caution and used correctly. If the paint is really stubborn, you may find you need to use a combination of cleaning methods to remove the graffiti depending on the surface you’re working with. There are also safety aspects to consider such as the welfare of employees if they need to work at height, so it’s important that the correct precautions are taken, and risks are kept to a minimum.

Speak to a graffiti removal specialist like Chirmarn

As much as it can be tempting to have a go at removing graffiti yourself, hiring a specialist to do the job for you will save time and money in the long run. As well as having the expertise and experience to remove the graffiti safely, a professional will be able to complete the process without causing further damage to the surface beneath. They’ll also have access to industry-specific equipment that isn’t always available to the public, which will remove the graffiti more efficiently and with minimum disruption. Because graffiti removal specialists have a wealth of experience, they are regularly hired by landlords, businesses, councils, and private homeowners who want the job done quickly without it taking up their time. Graffiti removal is a complex process that can impose safety risks and inflict more damage if it’s not done properly, so employing the services of a professional company is often the most effective and economical way to solve the problem.

Contact Chirmarn about getting graffiti removed

If you’d like more information about graffiti removal services from Chirmarn, or would like to find out about graffiti and asbestos removal, please fill out the contact form on our website, email info@chirmarn.co.uk or phone Chirmarn Asbestos Specialists at 0191 414 8000.