We seeconcrete block walls paintedas a solid backdrop or a colorful mural.

Concrete patios, basement floors, andgarage floorsare transformed by paint.

Learn how to tackle everything from small drips to large removals.

Removing paint from concrete with stripping solution

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Remove Loose Debris

Sweep the area or use a shop vac to remove dust and loose debris.

Put on Protective Gear

Put on gloves and eye protection to protect yourself.

Apply a Paint Stripper

For oil-based paint, use an oil-based paint stripper.

Closeup of person removing paint from a concrete surface

Piotr Wytrazek / Getty Images

For latex acrylic paint, use a water-based orplant-based stripper.

Warning

Note that paint stripers can contain toxic chemicals.

They are toxic if swallowed, but can also be absorbed through skin or by inhaling.

Blotting splattered paint on concrete

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

They can be harmful to a developing fetus, so women of child-bearing age should take extra caution.

It is helpful to have old newspapers or a bucket to hold the gooey mess.

Rinse the Concrete

Finish by rinsing the area with a garden hose or pressure washer.

Scraping dried paint off of concrete

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

That being said, it’s more gentle and won’t damage the surface.

Yes, you’ve got the option to use vinegar to help dissolve paint from concrete.

Let sit for 15 minutes before removing with a scraper.

Using a stiff brush to remove paint from concrete

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Acetone can help remove acrylic, oil, or enamel-based paints from concrete.

Let sit for five minutes, then scrub or scrape away.

What You Should Know About Using Paint Strippers.

Sweeping up scraped paint from concrete

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Protective goggles

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Adding paint stripping solution to the paint

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Using a paint scraper to remove the paint

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Power washing the concrete area

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic