Those four walls do more than define our homes. Like roofs, they serve to shelter us from the elements, but also tend to experience the most wear and tear from weather, paint, graffiti, and inappropriate retrofits. Maintenance is, of course, key and understanding the materials of which your walls are constructed help to preserve the building. Removing paint from masonry is a different method than removing it from wood. Either way, one should start with the gentlest means possible. And, the base materials should always be in excellent condition before additional work, such as painting or stuccoing, is undertaken.