How to Remove Thick Elastomeric Coatings With Ease

Elastomeric coatings are widely used in various industries for their durability, flexibility and waterproofing properties. They’re commonly applied to roofs, walls and other surfaces exposed to harsh weather conditions. Their resilient nature makes them an excellent choice for protecting surfaces from water damage, ultraviolet radiation and temperature fluctuations.

However, removing these thick coatings can be challenging. Knowing the proper techniques and products is crucial for effectively removing elastomeric coatings while maintaining the integrity of the substrate.

How Do You Remove Elastomeric Coating?

There are several methods for removing elastomeric coating, each with unique advantages and considerations.

Mechanical Methods

Mechanical methods involve using manual or power tools to physically remove the coating. Scraping, sanding and grinding are the most common mechanical techniques. For smaller areas, use a scraper or wire brush to manually remove the coating. Start at an edge or a cracked area and work your way across the surface. For larger surfaces, use a grinder or a similar power tool equipped with an abrasive disc or wire wheel. These tools make the removal process faster and more efficient.

The pros of mechanical methods for removing elastomeric coating include:

Readily available tools
Effective for small areas or spot removal
Relatively cost-effective

Mechanical methods have the following considerations:

Labor-intensive and time-consuming
May damage the substrate if not done carefully
Generates dust and debris

Be cautious when using mechanical methods to avoid damaging the substrate. Use the appropriate disc or wheel grit and maintain consistent pressure to prevent gouging or scratching the surface.

Chemical Stripping

Chemical strippers remove elastomeric coating by breaking down its chemical bonds, making it easier to remove. Solvent-based strippers are effective but may pose health and environmental risks. They often contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful if they’re inhaled or come into contact with skin. Biochemical strippers are more eco-friendly and safer to use. They typically have lower volatile organic compound (VOC) content and are less likely to cause irritation.

When applying chemical strippers, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Allow sufficient time for the stripper to penetrate and soften the coating before scraping it off. Dispose of the waste material according to local regulations to ensure safety.

The advantages of chemical stripping include:

Effective for thick or stubborn coatings
Requires less physical effort compared to mechanical removal
Can be used on intricate or hard-to-reach areas

Chemical stripping has some disadvantages, including:

May contain harsh or toxic chemicals
Requires proper ventilation and personal protective equipment
Potential for substrate damage if not used correctly

Ultra High-Pressure Water Blasting

For larger areas, high-pressure water jetting works well. Ultra high-pressure water blasting uses a specialized pump to deliver water at high blasting pressures of up to 40,000 psi through a small nozzle orifice. This high-velocity water stream effectively cuts through the elastomeric coating, removing it from the surface.

Ultra high-pressure water blasting has several advantages:

More environmentally friendly, using only water
Minimizes damage to the substrate
Efficient for large surface areas

Some considerations of ultra high-pressure water blasting include:

Requires specialized equipment and trained operators
May not be suitable for all substrates or applications
Challenges surrounding water containment and disposal
High energy costs

Heat Application

Heat application using infrared technology is an innovative method for removing elastomeric coatings. Infrared heaters gently heat the coating, causing it to soften and lose adhesion. The softened coating can then be easily scraped off the surface.

The pros of heat application for removing elastomeric coatings include:

Nonabrasive and gentle on the substrate
Produces minimal dust generation
Efficient for large areas

Cons of heat application include:

Requires specialized infrared equipment
May not be effective for extremely thick or stubborn coatings
Potential for heat damage like warping of sensitive substrates

Abrasive Blasting

Abrasive blasting is a highly effective method for removing elastomeric coating. It involves propelling a stream of abrasive particles against the surface at high pressure, mechanically removing the coating.

Engineered abrasives offer: superior performance, low dust levels, and greater sustainability

When selecting an abrasive media to remove elastomeric coating, consider factors such as hardness, shape, dust generation, environmental impact, and cost-effectiveness. Engineered abrasives offer superior performance, low dust levels, and greater sustainability.

The benefits of abrasive blasting with superoxalloy include:

Low dust generation for improved visibility and safety
Highly efficient, removing coatings quickly
Reduces waste and cost through efficient media
Safer for workers and the environment
Achieves a clean, profiled surface for better coating adhesion

Cons of abrasive blasting include:

Requires specialized blasting equipment
May not be suitable for delicate substrates

Frequently Asked Questions

Removing elastomeric coatings can be a complex process, and many facility managers and workers have questions along the way. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about elastomeric coating:

How Do I Know When It’s Time to Remove My Elastomeric Coating?

Cracking, peeling, bubbling, or loss of flexibility are signs that it’s time to remove your elastomeric coating. If the coating is no longer providing adequate protection or you need to repair the underlying surface, removal may be necessary.

How Long Does It Take to Remove Elastomeric Coating?

The time required to remove an elastomeric coating depends on factors such as the size of the area, the thickness of the coating, and the removal method used. Some methods may take longer to remove the coating due to their nature. For example, mechanical removal and chemical stripping may take a long time, while ultra-high-pressure water blasting and abrasive blasting can be more efficient.

How Can I Safely Remove Elastomeric Coating?

For a safe removal process, wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, eye protection, and a respirator. You should also ensure proper ventilation in the work area to minimize exposure to dust and fumes. Use high-quality, trusted products with low VOC content and avoid harmful substances. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety data sheets for proper product handling, storage, and disposal. Additionally, waste materials should be disposed of according to local regulations to minimize environmental impact.

Efficiently Remove Thick Elastomeric Coatings With 10X Engineered Materials

Removing thick elastomeric coatings requires knowledge, skill, and the right products. While various methods exist, abrasive blasting with engineered abrasives is the most advanced, efficient, and environmentally responsible technique.

10X Engineered Materials develops innovative, science-based abrasives like DynamiX superoxalloy abrasive that outperform traditional media. Our products are CARB-approved, nonhazardous, and designed to produce very low dust, ensuring worker safety and environmental stewardship.

Experience the ease of removing elastomeric coating using premium, engineered abrasives. Explore our products or contact us for more information about our premium abrasives.

Written by Jacob Vaillancourt

Jacob Vaillancourt is the co-founder of 10X Engineered Materials. He is responsible for sales and marketing. Jake has eight years of experience in surface preparation and 13 years of experience in industrial production processes. He is also an active instrument rated fixed-wing pilot.