How to Remove PVC Primer Stains From Concrete

How to Trap Black Wasps
Written By
Irene A. Blake
Irene A. Blake
Published: Jan 18, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Although either can discolor/stain concrete by trapping dirt or dye into the concrete surface, removing a stain caused by PVC primer isn’t impossible as long as you use another solvent to break up and pull away the trapped dirt and dye.

Things You Will Need

  • NIOSH multipurpose safety or vapor protection mask
  • Safety goggles
  • Gloves
  • Nail polish remover (acetone-base)
  • Cloths
  • Water
  • Detergent
  • Soft-bristled brush
  • Mop
  • Acetone (optional)
  • Paint stripper (optional)
  • Clear PVC primer/cleaner (optional)
  • Concrete grinder/polisher (optional)
  • Vacuum (optional)
  • Sealant or paint (optional)
  1. Put on your safety goggles, NIOSH multipurpose safety or vapor protection mask, and gloves. PVC primer and the chemicals used to clean it from concrete contain solvents that can cause bodily injury—not only eye and skin irritation, but also organ failure and damage to the upper respiratory system and nervous system.

  2. Open windows and doors if removing PVC primer from concrete inside your home to reduce vapor build-up.

  3. Pour an acetone-based nail polish remover on a cloth.

  4. Blot your PVC stain(s) with the wet cloth. The acetone, a solvent, should dissolve the PVC primer and/or purple dye in the primer. Repeatedly blot and add additional nail polish remover as needed until the stain fades.

  5. Scrub your concrete with water and detergent using a soft-bristled brush. Soak up the dirty water with a cloth or mop. Rinse your concrete surface, then air dry.

The Drip Cap

  • PVC primer prepares PVC surfaces for PVC cement welding—typically pipe fitting—via solvents that clean away dirt and debris from the PVC.
  • Although either can discolor/stain concrete by trapping dirt or dye into the concrete surface, removing a stain caused by PVC primer isn’t impossible as long as you use another solvent to break up and pull away the trapped dirt and dye.
  • Blot your PVC stain(s) with the wet cloth.

Photo Credits

George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images

George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images

Irene A. Blake

Based in Southern Pennsylvania, Irene A. Blake has been writing on a wide range of topics for over a decade. Her work has appeared in projects by The National Network for Artist Placement, the-phone-book Limited and GateHouse Media. She…

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