Vanish Graffiti & Paint Remover | Professional Grade Tag Removal | Biodegradable

TECHNICAL DATA

COVERAGE GUIDELINES
Varies dependent upon the porosity of the surface, material and the type of paint being removed.

1 gallon of Vanish Graffiti & Paint Remover will remove approx.

Composition
VANISH is a premium removal product made from natural alcohols, and surfactants designed to penetrate the surface, fully dissolve graffiti and other marks by staying wetter longer, as well as rinse away easily

Properties
Color: Clear to yellowish liquid.
Odor: Gentle alcohol odor.
PH: ~ 11 Storage: Store in a cold dry place away from heat or flames.
Shelf Life: Approximately 2 years but up to 5 years in unopened container.
Precautions: Harmful if swallowed or if inhaled. Causes skin irritation. Use protective clothing, eye protection and gloves.

Product Use Instructions 

Apply several coats of VANISH by brush, broom or spray onto the graffiti and allow several minutes dwell time between coats at least, but the longer you can leave it on the graffiti as a wet mess, then the better results and easier it will be to rinse away (just like soaking a burnt saucepan overnight).  Agitate with a soft nylon brush between coats and rinse with a pressure washer, or scrubbing brush and water. The main thing is patience.

Paint removal can be tedious if you try to rush things. After all, you only want to do this job once, if possible.  Ideally use 1500 – 2000 psi with a 15 or 25 degree fan jet at about 6 inches from the surface. Do not blast or use ‘turbo’ type nozzles which risk doing damage. When rinsing dissolved graffiti with a pressure washer, try to remove a LITTLE of the graffiti from the bottom of the tag without wetting the whole area. If satisfied, then proceed to full scale. Wash the whole area from top to bottom.

Remember If the remover has not done its job then no amount of ‘blasting’ will fix the problem. Failures are usually a result of not flood coating adequately and not leaving product on long enough and cannot be resolved by blasting too close or at higher pressures.

For removing carpet and tile glue Apply VANISH and leave on as long as needed. Scrape up as much dissolved glue as possible before pressure washing with hot water

CAUTION
Before commencing any large scale use, always test first in an inconspicuous area. This product is designed to remove all types of markers and stains, and may have an unpredictable or even damaging result on certain man-made or stained surfaces. If necessary wait for surface to dry to ensure perfect results.

TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS

Cold weather removals: Allow for longer dwell times in cold weather. Expect considerably slower reaction times in weather below 40° F / 5°C. Dwell times need to be 2 times longer to yield the same results, and it’s often helpful to leave product on much longer than that. It helps to keep the product indoors and even inside the car so that the products are at room temperature when you apply them. Use a hot water pressure washer / steam cleaner if possible. Sometimes it helps to use it to first heat up a section of graffiti before removing it

TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE USE OF VANISH GRAFFITI & PAINT REMOVER 

TIP 1. Some spray cans such as reds, can stain building surfaces. Other spray cans change colors once VANISH has been applied. For complete and total removal of these
stains use our FELTPEN FADEOUT after, or while VANISH is still on the stain.

TIP 2. If you are fixing someone else’s former failure and may be having problems, then VANISH can be left overnight on the wall (if safe to do) ensuring maximum dwell time.
Return in the morning and the problem will usually be solved with another application and a pressure wash off

SAFETY ISSUES

VANISH is safe to use in comparison with many other removal products and does not give off any fumes. VANISH is non-flammable and does not require any special storage.
VANISH can irritate the skin and eyes and its intended use as a paint remover makes it more aggressive on skin and eyes than normal every day cleaners.Please review

1. Always wear solvent alkali protective gloves, goggles and long sleeve clothing.
2. Be sunsmart. Wear a wide brimmed hat; after all, you are outside.
3. Always know where water is available in case of a splash.
4. Carry a spare set of clothing. Do not leave contaminated clothing on.
5. Use in well-ventilated areas.

LIMITATIONS
• VANISH can occasionally mark aluminum or galvanized steel surfaces.
• Do not dilute VANISH (use as supplied).

CAUTION
Before commencing any large scale use, always test first in an inconspicuous area. This product is designed to remove all types of markers and stains, and may have an
unpredictable or even damaging result on certain manmade or stained surfaces. If necessary, wait for surface to dry to ensure perfect results.

ENVIRONMENTAL CARE
BBSM is biodegradable and conforms to all statutory environmental requirements for graffiti removal including VOC limits. Designed to be fast, effective and non damaging requiring very little rinsing water. If necessary, water can be collected using a wet vac and disposed of safely.  We believe nothing other than rainwater should enter our
precious storm water systems.

NOTICE TO BUYER: DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES AND LIMITATIONS ON OUR LIABILITY:
We warrant that our products are manufactured to strict quality assurance specifications and that the information supplied by us is accurate to the best of our knowledge. Such information supplied about our products is not a representation or a warranty. It is supplied on the condition that you shall make your own tests to determine the suitability of our product for your particular purpose. Any use or application other than recommenced herein is the sole responsibility of the user. Listed physical properties are typical and should not be construed as specifications. NO WARRANTY IS MADE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, REGARDING SUCH OTHER INFORMATION, THE DATA ON WHICH IT IS BASED, OR THE RESULTS YOU WILL OBTAIN FROM ITS USE. N0 WARRANTY IS MADE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, THAT OUR PRODUCT SHALL BE MERCHANTABLE OR THAT OUR PRODUCT SHALL BE FIT FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE. NO WARRANTY IS MADE THAT THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION OR OUR PRODUCT WILL NOT INFRINGE UPON ANY PATENT. We shall have no liability for incidental or consequential damages, direct or indirect. Our liability is limited to the net selling price of our product or the replacement of our product, at our option. Acceptance of delivery of our product means that you have accepted the terms of this warranty whether or not purchase orders or other documents state terms that vary from this warranty. No representative is authorized to make any representation or warranty or assume any other liability on our behalf with any sale of our products. Our products contain chemicals that may CAUSE SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY. BEFORE USING, READ THE MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET AND FOLLOW ALL PRECAUTIONS TO PREVENT BODILY HARM.

Cold Weather makes everything work slower including Graffiti Removal.  Here are some tips for working in the cold.  

When winter temperatures sink into the 30°’s and 40°’s, graffiti tags take much longer to dissolve. Dwell times (how long you leave the graffiti remover on the tag) need to be 2-3 times longer to achieve the same results, and it’s often helpful to leave the graffiti removal product on much longer than that. It also helps to keep your graffiti removal product indoors prior to use or in your heated vehicle before applying, so they are at or close to room temperature when you’re ready to use them.

As always, quickest removal is using a hot water pressure washer or steam cleaner.  Sometimes you spray a wall down first in order to heat up a section of graffiti before removing it. If you don’t have a hot water power washer, you can fill up a bucket with hot water, leaving your graffiti remover in it so that it warms up before use.  Graffiti Remover is always more effective when it is not cold.

During the winter months you may want to apply Bare Brick Stone & Masonry Graffiti Remover several times and then leave Transgel on over that for hours or overnight. This will keep it wet for much longer and while it’s wet it’s working. Transgel eats through all the thicker bits of graffiti crinkling it up, while Bare Brick penetrates and dissolves it from behind. Of course, pressure washing in freezing conditions is a tricky exercise and we recommend reserving larger projects for the spring if that is an option.

For signs, trucks, trailers, and other Sensitive Surfaces, you may need to leave Sensitive Surface Graffiti Remover on for several minutes before coming back to agitate and wipe away. Sometimes lightly abrading the surface with a soft scourer between coats will help the remover penetrate and begin dissolving it faster.

Good luck and Stay Warm this winter!

What is Vanish Graffiti & Paint Remover?

Vanish Graffiti & Paint Remover is a professional-grade, biodegradable graffiti remover designed to eliminate spray paint, acrylics, and heavy vandalism from porous surfaces like brick, stone, and concrete.

Unlike harsh solvents, it works by penetrating deep into the substrate and dissolving paint while staying wet longer, making removal easier and more complete.

What surfaces can Vanish be used on?

Vanish is extremely versatile and safe for a wide range of surfaces, including:

• Concrete & cinder block
• Brick (including split-face block)
• Natural stone (limestone, granite, marble)
• Wood
• Stainless steel
• Plastics & playground equipment
• Asphalt Roads

👉 This makes it ideal for municipal, commercial, and residential graffiti removal projects.

What types of graffiti does Vanish remove?

Vanish is specifically designed to tackle:

• Spray paint (including thick tags)
• Acrylic paints
• Paint spills
• Large-scale vandalism
• Old murals and coatings

It can even help remove adhesives and deteriorated sealers, making it more than just a graffiti remover.

Does Vanish remove graffiti shadows (ghosting)?

Yes—when used correctly.

One of the biggest benefits of Vanish is:

• No shadowing
• No harsh scrubbing required
• Deep penetration into porous surfaces

👉 For stubborn pigments (especially reds), pairing with a shadow remover like a Felt Pen fade-out product may be recommended.

How do you use Vanish Graffiti Remover?

Step-by-step process:

1. Apply generously (brush, broom, or spray)
2. Let it dwell (longer = better results)
3. Agitate with a soft nylon brush
4. Rinse with a pressure washer (1500–2000 PSI recommended)

💡 Pro tip:
The product works best when kept wet on the surface as long as possible—think of it like soaking a burnt pan overnight.

How much coverage do you get per gallon?

Coverage depends on surface porosity:

• Concrete: ~200 sq ft (multiple coats)
• Soft stone (limestone/sandstone): ~80–100 sq ft

👉 Rougher, more porous surfaces require more product and dwell time. For additional questions about coverage, reach out to us at 630-675-4509 or sales@exteirorcoatings.com.

Is Vanish environmentally friendly?

Yes. Vanish is:

• Biodegradable
• Low water rinse requirement
• Produces runoff that can be reused or safely broken down

This makes it a strong choice for:

• Cities & municipalities
• Eco-conscious contractors
• Jobs with environmental restrictions

Does Vanish work in hot or cold weather?

Vanish performs in a wide temperature range:

• Works from ~20°F to 100°F
• Slower in cold temperatures (below 40°F)
• Faster in warm conditions

👉 In cold weather, increase dwell time and consider warm water pressure washing.

Is Vanish safe to use?

Vanish is safer than many traditional removers, but still requires precautions:

• Wear gloves, goggles, and protective clothing
• Avoid skin and eye contact
• Use in ventilated areas

👉 It’s virtually odorless and non-flammable, making it easier to work with on job sites.

Will Vanish damage surfaces?

When used correctly:

• Does not damage masonry or stone
• Does not require aggressive pressure washing
• Minimizes risk of etching or surface wear

⚠️ Always test a small area first—especially on coated or man-made surfaces.

What makes Vanish different from other graffiti removers?

Vanish stands out because it:

• Stays wet longer (better penetration)
• Works on deep porous substrates
• Is biodegradable and low odor
• Requires less pressure and water
• Eliminates shadowing without aggressive scrubbing

👉 Many removers only clean the surface—Vanish works below the surface.

Can Vanish be left on overnight?

Yes—this is actually recommended for tough jobs.

Leaving Vanish on longer:

• Improves penetration
• Breaks down heavy graffiti
• Reduces labor and repeat applications

Where is Vanish most commonly used?

Typical applications include:

• Commercial buildings
• Schools & parks
• Highway overpasses
• Transit stations
• Concrete walls & fences
• Industrial facilities

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Always flood coat—don’t under-apply
• Dwell time is everything (don’t rush)
• Use a fan-tip pressure washer (15°–25°)
• Avoid “turbo nozzles” that damage surfaces
• Work from bottom test → full rinse

Final Thoughts: Is Vanish Worth It?

If you’re dealing with deep, porous graffiti, Vanish is one of the best-performing options because it:

✔ Removes graffiti at the source
✔ Reduces labor time
✔ Prevents shadowing
✔ Works in tough environments