So much has changed in the world of exterior painting, it would be difficult to cover those changes in a book, much less in a limited-space article. But, you might want to read on to learn about one of the most important advances in this field, especially if you’re concerned about protecting surfaces from spray paint and permanent markers used to produce graffiti.

Many years ago, the only option was to invest in the best paint available and then hope for the best; in other words, you’d hope that no one felt the urge to cover an unpainted surface with visual “ideas” of their own. You can now purchase a ready-to-use product that puts a semi-gloss coating on the wall or fence. If someone does apply graffiti to this coating, you won’t have to use abrasive methods or harsh solvents to remove the graffiti.

It Really Works?

The best way to answer the question is to state that you can hand-wipe the surface or use a basic pressure wash, not only saving time but also saving money. You will find that the newest products don’t lose effectiveness as time passes and as you perform repeated cleanings. When you roll, spray, or brush this coating on brick or concrete, even on painted wood or steel, you’ll have a quick-drying coat that will not only resist graffiti, of course, but also protect the surface from the elements.

According to industry statistics, property owners and government agencies in some countries spend millions of dollars each year to take graffiti off of buildings and other exposed surfaces. This has been a serious problem for governments that maintain bridges, municipal buildings, schools, and so on. Private individuals are also faced with the expense of graffiti removal on property they own. To cite just a basic example, some major cities spend hundreds of millions of dollars annually on this process.

While this isn’t the time or place for a complete chemistry lesson, you’d benefit from a basic understanding of why anti-graffiti coatings work. The coating prevents paint from adhering to the surface, to put it in simple terms. As you learn more about the graffiti-prevention process, keep in mind there are two coating types you might use. One will be applied and is removed with the markings and images. The second type keeps graffiti from clinging to the surface from the start.

Weather, UV Resistance

The coating process used to deal with graffiti provides additional resistance to weather and to ultraviolet rays. In essence, this additional coating helps protect the original structure. If you encounter the term “sacrificial” coatings, you’ll find these are removed with pressure washing, taking off the graffiti in the process. The opposite, of course, is the permanent coating, which are generally more expensive, but they only have to be applied one time.

Spray paints cannot bond to this coated surface, with a basic solvent and a bit of “elbow grease.” Your wall or fence is undamaged, as is the coating. You’re urged to talk to your paint professional about the right choice for you. Be sure you ask about the active ingredients used to produce this protective layer.