The typical tagger repeats their ‘tags’ as many times as possible to advertise to other taggers for recognition and status.
If graffiti is removed quickly, the taggers are denied their glory.
Keep some paint handy and simply paint over any tags that do appear. If you suffer repeated graffiti, be persistent. If need be, just paint a patch over the tagged area rather than repainting the whole wall or fence until the graffiti has stopped for an extended period.
If your property has been tagged:
- Remove graffiti as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours.
- If you are removing graffiti for the first time, try different methods on a small area first to ensure you are not causing more damage. Try, in this order:
- a detergent, such as dishwashing liquid.
- a solvent such as paint thinner, methylated spirits, oven cleaner or branded graffiti removal products, such as Resene Graffiti Cleaner.
- The chemicals in graffiti removal products can be hazardous, so always wear protective clothing including a mask. Store out of the reach of children.
- Remove graffiti from an unpainted wall or fence by sanding or water blasting. Water blasting is very effective on unpainted surfaces. The smoother the surface the more easily it can be cleaned.
- On unsealed porous surfaces such as brick, concrete and unpolished stone, complete removal of graffiti on the surface still leaves behind its indelible message.
- Generally a painted wall is easier to keep graffiti free because any further tags can simply be painted over in the same colour as the original.
- Protect the driveway and footpath from paint drips and spills when painting out tagging.
- If graffiti has been painted over trees, rub the damaged areas with baking soda and rinse off thoroughly with water.
- Paint your wall or fence in dark colours – colours that will cover in one coat, such as brown and green, are most effective but may not be suitable for some surfaces.
- Chemical removal can be a particularly effective method of removing permanent markers or removing graffiti from steel surfaces.