Hello all,
I have a dilemma that I am hoping you can help with. I have basement walls that have what seems to be a plaster skimcoating and texture paint over the blocks. I believe this was done for purely aesthetic reasons - to fill in the "ugly" grout lines. I have tested and there's nothing toxic, but it needs to come off. The basement has some mild water damage - spots where moisture has gotten to the plaster, and now it's popping off the wall. I'd rather not have to do this again in another 5-8 years... So, my ultimate goal would be to strip all of the blocks back and then Drylok them. In the areas where there has been some moisture, the stuff scrapes right off. In other areas, that haven't been damaged yet, or not damaged as badly, it is very difficult to get off. I have tried using an angle grinder and a wire brush, which works, but is relatively slow and incredibly dusty. Do you think that powerwashing would be a viable alternative? I can get the basement reasonably dry again. I am just looking for a more efficient, less dusty method of busting through the stubborn spots. Any help much appreciated!

I would try a small air powered chisel, like the kind mechanics use to do body work. Maybe 30 bucks at the pawn shop. This is a nice tool because it weighs very little but works very hard. If you don't have an air compressor or can't find one to borrow, think about renting one for a day. I have used this tool for many similar operations and it has saved tons of time and effort. Just make sure to oil it often so you don't ruin the seals. Sounds like a good plan.