How to Get Dried Paint Off of Cement

Cement is just one component that is used to make concrete and mortar. It is used to make buildings, driveways, garage floors, sidewalks and more. The effort needed to remove dried paint from cement is determined by what type of paint is being removed. A water-based paint will come off cement with soap, water and a little rubbing with a scouring pad. Oil-based paint will require more effort and strong chemicals.

Things You'll Need

• Safety goggles
• Water bottle, or other water source
• Soap, any kind
• Old cloth
• Wire brush (optional)
• Razor blade
• Vacuum
• Broom
• Acetone

Instructions

1. Apply water from a water bottle to the paint. If it is a water-based paint, the paint will begin to dissolve and dilute. Oil-based paint will not begin to dissolve.

2. Use the old cloth to rub off as much as possible if you find that the paint began to dissolve. Use a wire brush to scrape it out of the cement and repeat the process with soap and water until the paint is gone. For an oil-based paint, use a razor blade to scrape off as much as possible. Vacuum or sweep those pieces away.

3. Apply acetone to the oil-based paint. Allow it to soften for about 10 to 30 minutes. Remove the remaining paint with an old cloth. You may need to repeat the application and use a wire brush to remove the remains of the paint.

4. Clean the area with soapy water if you used acetone and allow the area to dry completely .

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to wear safety goggles while scrubbing the dried paint and allow for plenty of ventilation.

• If you are not sure what type of paint you are trying to remove, use acetone and it will come off.

• Be cautious when applying pressure onto the wire brush as you work on the cement. The ends of the wire are sharp. It will not take much to puncture your skin.

• Keep children and pets away from areas where acetone has been to avoid fume inhalation or accidental ingestion of the chemical.

References

• HowToCleanStuff.net: How to Clean Paint from Concrete