Solution Spotlight: Protection Against Graffiti

For asset owners, graffiti is unwanted and costly to remove. It can also degrade structures over time, rendering them more susceptible to corrosion and other environmental wear and tear. Dulux® Protective Coatings offers a range of technology types and surface treatment solutions to protect against graffiti.

The challenge

Mario Blasco, Dulux Protective Coatings' Technical Manager stresses the importance of selecting the right product for effective graffiti resistance.
According to Mario, an effective anti-graffiti strategy must include a coating system that allows removal of graffiti and restoration of the original appearance.

"Each coating system brings something different to the table," Mario explains. "There are different factors to consider including the surface is being protected, types of substrates, existing surface treatment and intended maintenance program. It's worth seeking expert advice on the best solution for your project."

Factors to consider

When selecting an anti-graffiti product, it is essential to consider several factors.

Surface Type: Determine whether the surface is masonry or steel, and whether it is previously painted or unpainted. Different products may be suitable for different surfaces.

Porosity: For porous masonry surfaces, continuous coatings are recommended as they provide better protection by preventing graffiti from penetrating the surface's pores.

Durability: If regular graffiti removal is required, choose a durable and hard-wearing permanent coating. This will ensure that the surface can withstand frequent cleaning without compromising its integrity.

Desired Appearance: Surface treatments do not alter the substrate's appearance, while clearcoats can give a glossy and slightly darker look to the surface. Consider the desired aesthetic when selecting the product.

Graffiti Removal: Determine how you intend to remove the unwanted graffiti. Some products may require specific cleaning methods or solvents.

Topcoats: Look for products that provide effective graffiti resistance, UV protection, fast-drying properties, and can be easily cleaned with water. These features are convenient for applicators.

Substrate Compatibility: If you have a wider range of substrates like mild steel, galvanized steel, concrete, or aluminium, consider a product that offers excellent gloss and color retention, even in severe industrial and marine environments.

By considering the type of surface or substrate, maintenance requirements, desired appearance, and selecting the appropriate topcoats, asset owners can effectively protect their surfaces from graffiti and maintain their desired aesthetic.

Surface treatments

Dulux® Surfaceshield® HD is a heavy duty, standalone surface treatment that penetrates porous surfaces, providing an invisible hydrophobic layer that is impervious to dirt, dust, oils, and other particulates.

The product's low VOC formula makes it the perfect product for situations where low odour and low solvent

emissions are desired.
Where surfaces have been treated with Surfaceshield HD, graffiti can be removed using a combination of graffiti removal agents and hot, high-pressure water washing.

"Surfaceshield HD will stand up to repeated graffiti removal," Mario says.

Clearcoats

Dulux® Surfaceshield® FP is a premium, waterbased fluoropolymer clearcoat that can be used on porous materials and stands up well to graffiti removing agents.

A two-component coating, it applies opaque and dries clear so that applicators can ensure all sections of the surface are covered.

Once fully cured, graffiti can be removed repeatedly using a combination of graffiti removal agents and water.

Dulux® Acrathane® IF Clearcoat is an isocyanate-free formulation that allows for easy and efficient spray application.

Ideal for areas prone to graffiti such as railway stations, underpasses, columns, and building facades, Acrathane IF Clearcoat is crystal clear and non-yellowing.

Dulux® Durathane™ is a non-yellowing clear polyester urethane with outstanding chemical and abrasion resistance, making it an ideal topcoat in anti-graffiti systems.

"Durethane can be applied directly to concrete or as a clearcoat over polyurethanes," Mario explains. "With excellent UV resistance, it's ideal for exterior areas such as curtain walls, architectural features, canopies and

facades."

Topcoats

Dulux® Duration® T74 and Dulux® Duration® T80 are excellent graffiti resistant topcoats for steel structures.

"Both products provide excellent UV protection and gloss retention," Mario explains. "They are low VOC, fast drying and easy to wash up with water, which is a bonus for busy applicators."

Dulux® Weathermax® HBR provides graffiti protection on a wide range of suitably primed substrates such as mild steel, galvanised steel, concrete and aluminium.

A high-performance coating, Weathermax HBR delivers excellent gloss and colour retention, even in severe industrial and marine environments.

The solution in action

From Geelong Football Club's Skilled Stadium in Victoria to the awning and Oculus structure of the QV1 Plaza in Western Australia, Dulux Protective Coatings' graffiti resistant products have been used to protect private and public assets across the country.

A high-performing surface treatment, Surfaceshield HD has been used to protect the facades of the Sydney Coliseum, and the Bellerive Apartments in Tasmania.

Our clearcoats, Surfaceshield FP, Acrathane IF Clearcoat and Durethane have been used to protect a range of assets including the artwork on the Point Cartwright Water Reservoir in Queensland and Melbourne's fleet of Metro Trains.

Delivering excellent gloss retention, our urethane topcoats Duration T74, Duration T80 and Weathermax HBR have been used for the Brisbane River Beacons in Queensland and Auckland's Te Manawa Community Centre in New Zealand.