Anti-graffiti Films: What Do They Do and How Do They Work?

Graffiti can appear anywhere — from the side of a New York subway train to the walls of a multi-story parking garage, or even on buildings tagged by the elusive artist Banksy. While some graffiti may be considered art, the reality is that most unauthorized markings are unsightly and costly to remove. Cleanup efforts can run into the hundreds or even thousands of dollars, requiring specialized cleaning equipment and, in some cases, leading to permanent surface damage.

But there’s a cost-effective and preventative solution—anti-graffiti films. These innovative films create a protective barrier, preventing graffiti artists from applying tags with paint, markers, stickers, or decals. Property owners can rest easy knowing their surfaces—whether storefronts, transport covers, or other public spaces—remain graffiti-free while saving on future cleaning costs.

Different Types of Anti-Graffiti Technologies

Not all anti-graffiti films are the same. There are two key technologies used to create these protective solutions.

The first is top-coated anti-graffiti film, which features a specialized topcoat that resists graffiti. The coating prevents spray paint, markers, and adhesives from bonding to the surface, making removal easy. Drytac’s Interlam Eco Anti-Graffiti is an example of this type of film, offering an eco-friendly, non-PVC solution with anti-stick properties.

The second is a membrane-based anti-graffiti film, which has built-in chemical resistance throughout the material. Unlike coated films, these membranes provide long-lasting protection against harsh cleaning agents or solvents, ensuring that even aggressive graffiti removal does not degrade the film. Additionally, the membrane structure is inherently graffiti-resistant, meaning that, unlike coated products, its protective properties cannot be scrubbed away over time. Drytac’s Interlam Pro Anti-Graffiti falls into this category, offering high durability, flame resistance, and strong protection against UV exposure.

The Bottom Line

Anti-graffiti films provide an effective, long-term solution to combat vandalism. By preventing defacement at the source, these films protect surfaces while reducing maintenance costs. Businesses, transportation providers, and public space managers can maintain clean, professional, and brand-aligned environments without worrying about the constant need for graffiti removal.

Drytac’s Anti-Graffiti Solutions

Drytac offers two premium anti-graffiti films designed to keep surfaces protected and looking pristine.

Interlam Eco Anti-Graffiti is a non-PVC overlaminating film with a gloss finish that resists dirt, pollutants, and unwanted adhesives. The anti-stick properties prevent tapes, stickers, and spray paints from adhering to the surface, while its easy-to-clean design ensures that any graffiti can be wiped away effortlessly. As a non-PVC film, it is also a sustainable choice for businesses looking for an environmentally friendly solution.

Interlam Pro Anti-Graffiti is a flame-resistant, high-performance film that provides superior durability. It offers high resistance to UV light, dirt, and pollutants, ensuring long-term surface protection. The strong adhesive bond works seamlessly with UV, latex, and other ink technologies, keeping printed graphics intact while safeguarding against graffiti. Unlike coated solutions, its membrane-based structure maintains its graffiti-resistant properties even with repeated cleaning, making it a long-lasting and cost-effective choice.