Case Study: Graffiti Cleanup & Brick Restoration

When two brick chimneys at a property management company in Charlestown were vandalized with graffiti, the building’s management team called in CertaPro Painters® of Boston, MA to take care of it fast. With the damage located on a rooftop and sprayed directly onto exposed brick, the job required careful planning, expert application, and a focus on safety from start to finish.

The Challenge

This wasn’t a surface-level touch-up. Removing graffiti from aged brick is tricky and doing it on a rooftop in the middle of a 100-degree heatwave made it even more complex. The project demanded precision to avoid damaging the masonry, plus strict safety protocols for working at height.

The Process

Our crew began by applying a specially formulated paint remover designed for brick surfaces. After letting it break down the spray paint, we power washed the area to lift the residue. For any stubborn spots, we followed with a muriatic acid rinse, then power washed again to fully restore the surface. Extra precautions were taken throughout to handle the harsh chemicals safely.

Safety in Action

Because the chimneys sat high above the street, our team wore full fall protection harnesses, secured to a balcony anchor point. Two painters were always on site to ensure full OSHA compliance, with constant oversight and communication. With the extreme heat, we also implemented hydration breaks and sun protection protocols to keep the crew safe throughout the job.

The Result

In just two days, the chimneys were completely clean—no more spray paint, no damage to the brick, and a fresh, restored look that brought the building back to professional standards. Another successful project delivered by CertaPro Painters® of Boston, MA with safety, speed, and certainty.