Q: My concrete porch and steps were once painted, but they now look awful. The paint was stained by a metal railing that rusted and has been replaced. I'd like to remove the paint to restore the original concrete finish or, if that's not possible, repaint properly. Can you help? -M. Schik
The paint can be removed, of course. The simplest method is to have the concrete sandblasted. This is best done by an experienced painting contractor, although sandblasting equipment can be rented at some tool-rental agencies. One reason why a pro is the best bet is that if the paint was applied before 1978, it might contain lead, a health hazard if particles or fumes get into the air and are breathed in. An experienced painter can test the paint and, if it contains lead, recommend the safest method of removal. You can also test for lead yourself, using a lead-test kit, sold at home centers or online. The old paint can also be removed with paint stripper. Stripping will be a lot of work if the surface is large, but you can do a small section at a time. Good strippers include Strypeeze and Peel Away, which is advertised as being eco-friendly.
There are other good strippers, of course. Some will work much faster than others, so read the directions and cautions carefully before buying. A good system is to work on a reasonably cool day when the concrete is shaded. Spread remover in a thick layer and lay a sheet of plastic over it to help prevent evaporation. After giving the stripper plenty of time to soften and loosen the old paint, remove the plastic and scrape and clean the concrete, following directions for the specific stripper. If you decide to repaint, use a porch-and-floor paint, not regular house paint. Watch the railing for signs of rust, and treat rusted areas immediately with rust converter, a chemical that converts the rust to an inert, paintable substance; you can buy rust converter at many home centers and hardware stores.
