Technology has created concrete coatings that are meant to last. This makes removal time-consuming and difficult, but not impossible. There are several techniques you can choose from to take off a coat of sealant, paint or epoxy from a concrete surface.

There are two basic methods for removing concrete coatings: mechanical and chemical. Mechanical methods include grinding, sandblasting and sanding. These methods are time-consuming, create a lot of dust and can possibly damage the concrete. They allow you to avoid the use of chemicals and can smooth out a rough or uneven surface. Chemical strippers create a reaction that causes the coating to release from the concrete surface so that it can be wiped or scrubbed away. Chemicals are less labor-intensive, but pose serious health hazards if handled or disposed improperly. Adequate ventilation is also necessary. Chemical stripping options include biochemical, solvent and caustic. Each works in a slightly different way to achieve the same results. Although some are touted as being less harmful to the environment, all pose serious risks, such as severe burns, if proper safety precautions aren't used.