A fresh coat of paint provides a lustrous look to old surfaces. However, no matter how much you paint the surfaces with new paint, it will gradually strip off. The paint starts to disappear, tends to crack, forms blisters, or forms a bumpy layer of pigments and binders. Thus, stripping paint off Wood is required to restore and rejuvenate a piece of woodwork.
Multiple methods can be used to eliminate paint from wood surfaces. For instance, a paint stripper can chemically strip the paint from underneath the Wood. But for an absolutely finished look, one still needs a paint scraper and sander. Moreover, with proper inspection and the right methods, paint from the Wood can easily be removed.
Guide to Strip Paint From Wood Surface
Wood Inspection Before Stripping the Paint Off
It's necessary to inspect the Wood, especially the wood trim, before paint stripping. As some might seem overly worn or rotted, stripping would not be an ideal solution. Thus, ensure to perform a few tests to determine whether the old paint on rotting Wood needs stripping, treatment, or replacement. Remove the root cause of moisture for smaller issues before stripping or replacing.
Figure out when to stop strip painting from the Wood by inspecting it for rot.
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Dry rot - Look for spore dust on the Wood and a damp or musty scent to find dry rot.
The presence of fruiting bodies of fungus also indicates dry rot.
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Wet rot - It is more common in high-moisture areas. Perform a small test by gently poking a tiny portion of the Wood. If it feels spongy, wet rot might be present.
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Wear and tear - Any signs of shrinkage, warping, large cracks, or Wood coming loose point towards the replacement of Wood.
DIY or Hire a Professional
When you have a large, complex, and dangerous project, it's better to decide early whether you can handle the job on your own or need assistance.
Send to experts - If the pieces you want to strip (doors, windows, or furniture) are easy to remove and include intricate details, consider sending them to a professional. They use special vats to soak each piece in dip tanks to remove the paint quickly and efficiently.
Hire a professional - If there is a large quantity of trim or siding to strip bare quickly or paint containing lead that cannot be removed safely on your own, ensure that you call an expert to do the job on-site.
7 Best Methods to Strip Paint Off Wood
Consider some of the best methods to remove paint from Wood.
Paint Strippers
Paint Strippers are liquids, gels, or pastes that are used to remove old finishes. They are effective at removing paint from walls on bigger projects and minute details. Unlike sanding, they work easily on rounded surfaces and tight areas. However, keep them away from skin, eyes, and lungs.
Use paint strippers from the top and run it down. First, a paint scraper is applied to remove the softened paint without damaging the Wood. Then, reapply the paint stripper in delicate or hard-to-reach areas. Finally, scrub the Wood with nylon brushes to erase residues from the old finish.
Heat Guns
Heat guns remove paint from Wood by directing hot air onto the painted surface. This causes the paint to loosen, blister, and bubble from the Wood. A metal scraper is later used to remove the paint. Heat guns are also efficient at taking off varnish. Also, ensure to keep a fire extinguisher in close proximity when using a heat gun, as they generate high temperatures. Do not ever leave a heat gun unattended.
Sandpaper
Sandpaper and powder sanders are another method to quickly and efficiently remove old paint from Wood, especially for flat surfaces. However, ensure that you always sand carefully with the grain to avoid damaging the wood surfaces.
Wear safety goggles and a face mask during sanding to prevent yourself from inhaling a lot of dust. Moreover, refrain from using electric sanders indoors.
Citrus Solvents
Citrus solvents contain organic compounds, termed terpenes, sourced from oranges and other plants. Although citrus strippers are nontoxic and biodegradable, they may still contain some chemicals. However, if one wants to avoid harsh chemicals, citrus solvents are a perfect solution as they work like chemical-based substances.
Paint Scraper
A paint scraper can be used to remove fine layers of paint, especially cracked and peeling parts, without using heat or chemicals. While a plastic paint scraper is affordable and less likely to damage wood surfaces, a brass or steel blade paint scraper can better handle tougher jobs.
Pressure Washer
Pressure washers can remove paint. However, the pressure must be around 2,500 to 3,000 psi to eliminate the paint. It could be a great option for removing paint from large outdoor surfaces. However, avoid using a pressure washer on hardboard siding.
Vinegar
Vinegar is an adaptable household substance that will most likely remove paint that is already peeling or chipping. It won’t work as efficiently as a commercial paint stripper, but it is a cheaper and environmentally friendly option that will work well on small projects.
