What Removes Paint From Chrome?
Chrome plating, more commonly referred to simply as chrome, is a method of electroplating that applies a thin layer of chromium onto metal objects. Chrome is generally used for decorative purposes on a variety of objects from bathroom faucets to automobile bumpers. It also provides corrosion resistance and a hard, durable surface. Often, items that are chromed are later painted to give them a different appearance. The irony is that these items often then need to be restored to their original condition, which means stripping the paint off.
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Paint Stripper
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Use a chemical paint stripper like Jasco to remove the paint from the chrome. This will avoid scratching the chrome and damaging it. Paint stripper will come in either a spray form or a brush-on, gel-like form. Apply the stripper uniformly over all of the areas that need to be stripped. If there are any painted areas nearby that you do not want stripped, tape these off to protect them. Let the stripper sit for 10 to 20 minutes. You will see the paint begin to bubble. Once it is bubbling, wipe off with a rag. If there is still some paint, repeat the process until the paint is gone.
Warning
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If you are using paint stripper to strip the chrome, be sure to do it either outside or in a well-ventilated area. Use rubber gloves and do not let the stripper touch your skin. It is also important to use a ventilator or at least a paper mask to avoid breathing the fumes from the stripper, which are extremely strong and contain chemicals that can cause damage to the nervous and respiratory systems.
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Brake Cleaner
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Another method of stripping paint that might work on thinner layers of paint is using brake cleaner. Spray on the brake cleaner and then rub vigorously with a rag until the paint is removed.
Steel Wool
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It also possible to use steel wool to strip paint from chrome along with lacquer thinner or even something like Simple Green cleaner. It is very important to use 0000 steel wool, which is the finest and softest grade, to avoid scratching the chrome. Keep the steel wool moist to avoid scratching the chrome.
Warnings
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It is very easy to damage chrome if you use an abrasive material to strip it. Do not sand the chrome with sandpaper to remove paint, because this will scratch the finish of the chrome and ruin it. If this happens, whatever is chromed will have to be re-chromed, which is a relatively expensive process.
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