Outdoor murals face a constant battle against the elements—sunlight, moisture, pollution, and yes, even graffiti. A high-quality topcoat doesn’t just preserve the vibrant beauty of your work; it also makes it easier to clean, repair, and extend the life of your mural.
If you’re wondering which topcoat is best for your next outdoor mural, here’s a breakdown of six options—each with its own strengths and weaknesses—so you can choose the one that’s right for your project.
1. VandlGuard Anti-Graffiti Coating (by Rainguard) ~ $42 /gallon
Overview: A clear, non-sacrificial, breathable barrier designed to prevent graffiti from bonding to surfaces.
Pros:
• UV-stable and non-yellowing.
• Water-based and low-VOC, safer for the environment and artist.
• Affordable for large scale murals
• Easy to apply with roller, sprayer, or pesticide sprayer
Cons:
• Milky and watery so a little difficult to apply with roller because it runs easily
• I found that i need extra solvent cleaner and a pressure washer to remove graffiti
2. VandlGuard MuralGuard $45 /gallon
Overview: Specifically formulated for mural protection, this product is a water-based, anti-graffiti topcoat made for painted surfaces.
Pros:
• Designed for painted art, so it won’t dull or discolor your mural.
• UV protection to prevent fading.
• Water-based and easy to apply (brush, roller, or sprayer).
• Durable and weather-resistant, with strong anti-graffiti properties.
Cons:
• Requires multiple coats for full protection.
• 2-Part component system so it's not easy as other topcoats or storable after combining components
• Extremely expensive o not as cost effective for every project
3. Sherwin-Williams Anti-Graffiti Coating (B97-C-150) ~ $140.12 /gallon
Overview: A clear, waterborne urethane coating designed to resist graffiti and environmental wear.
Pros:
• Excellent graffiti resistance
• Excellent cleanability with either water power-washing or solvent wipe
• Good abrasion and weather resistance.
• Excellent UV resistance
• Single component
Cons:
• Thick consistency so difficult to apply
• Not always stocked in smaller quantities—may require special ordering.
• Not specifically formulated for murals, so appearance impact should be tested first.
• Once cured, it’s nearly permanent—touch-ups or repainting the mural will be more difficult.
2K Water-Based Anti-Graffiti Coating
Overview: A two-component (2K) polyurethane or epoxy coating that offers ultra-tough, professional-grade protection.
Pros:
• Extremely durable and chemical-resistant—ideal for high-risk areas (like alleyways or public buildings).
• Superior UV resistance and long-term protection.
• True non-sacrificial surface—can be cleaned repeatedly without needing reapplication.
Cons:
• Requires mixing two components and applying quickly—less forgiving for beginners.
• Not always stocked in smaller quantities—may require special ordering.
• Once cured, it’s nearly permanent—touch-ups or repainting the mural will be more difficult.
5. Mural Shield $99 /gallon
Overview: Developed in collaboration with artists and conservators, Mural Shield is part of a conservation system (often used alongside a varnish like World’s Best Graffiti Coating). To get 10% off you can use my link for thier site here: https://www.graffitiremovalinc.com/DETOUR10
Pros:
• Excellent UV protection to prevent fading.
• Designed to preserve fine detail without altering the look of the mural.
• Breathable and UV resistant.
• Often used as an isolation layer before a sacrificial or non-sacrificial topcoat.
• Easy to apply with roller or sprayer
•Easily paint and touch-up on top of topcoat and re-coat for protection
Cons:
• Not a stand-alone topcoat—you’ll still need a dedicated anti-graffiti coating on top.
• If you're not in California you need to order it online
• Works best when used as part of a system, so it adds a step to your workflow.
6. World’s Best Graffiti Coating $70/gallon
Overview: A sacrificial anti-graffiti coating often used in tandem with Mural Shield, especially for murals in public spaces. To get 10% off you can use my link for thier site here: https://www.graffitiremovalinc.com/DETOUR10
Pros:
• Sacrificial coating that can be removed along with graffiti, then reapplied.
• Breathable and safe for murals—widely used by restoration experts.
• Environmentally friendly and easy to clean with hot water.
Cons:
• Needs reapplication after each graffiti removal.
• Less permanent than non-sacrificial coatings—more ongoing maintenance.
• Not suitable for areas with extremely frequent tagging unless maintained vigilantly.
Final Thoughts
The right topcoat can mean the difference between a mural that fades or flakes after one season and one that shines for years. Think about your specific environment, potential risks (graffiti, weather, UV exposure), and how often you’re willing to maintain the coating.