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Mike asked: Is there any way to remove latex paint from roofing shingles? I dropped a paint brush (beyond the drop cloth area) and have white latex paint on a shingle or two.
Removing latex paint can be a challenge, especially when trying to avoid any damage to the surface of shingles. Shingles are covered with tiny bits of rock that gives it a unique look as well as adding to its strength. Follow these guidelines to remove the paint safely.
You Will Need:
- Latex paint remover (ex: Oops)
- Rubbing alcohol
- Plastic wrap
- Tape
- Soft cloths
- Water
Steps to Remove the Paint:
- Begin by blotting the painted area with a cloth moistened with the chosen paint remover.
- Avoid scrubbing the area as this can lead to damaging the rough surface.
- If using rubbing alcohol, you will need to cover it so that it doesn’t evaporate before it has time to work.
- Apply a good amount of alcohol to the surface.
- Cover the area with plastic wrap and tape it down around the edges.
- After setting on the stain, the alcohol will cause the paint to liquefy.
- When the paint is liquid again, blot it away with a clean cloth.
- Clean the area thoroughly with a mild detergent and water mixture.
Additional Tips and Ideas:
- If the paint is still wet, simply wash it away with detergent and water.
- If the paint is not removable, consider painting the tiny splotches with a matching color to help them blend in.
- Shingles can easily be replaced if necessary, and the fix will be more permanent than painting.
- Though it’s desirable to fix the spill immediately, the paint will eventually wear off when exposed to normal weathering.
Should the area being treated with latex paint remover of your choice still be covered with plastic wrap, or is that just if using rubbing alcohol?
Lisa,
Rubbing alcohol evaporates very quickly, so if using alcohol, you should cover it with plastic wrap. The paint thinner might not need to be covered, as some paint thinners are formulated specifically to not evaporate very fast. If you find that the paint thinner you are using is evaporating too quickly, you can cover it with plastic wrap as well.
Source: Wikipedia – Isopropyl alcohol
Source: EPA – What You Should Know About Using Pain Strippers
I have a gazebo roof that I painted, but after a few years it’s chipping off; can’t find anyone to replace it, so will the paint stripper harm the shingles?
Dianne,
The paint stripper should only work to dissolve the paint, not damage the shingles. Any damage is most likely to occur by scrubbing off the paint (abrasion). However, it’s always best to test a process in a small hidden area first, on one edge shingle might be a good spot, to be sure the process is safe as every situation is unique. Good luck!