How to Strip Paint Off a Wood Floor

Strip Paint off Wood Floor

You've just bought a home and you're thrilled when you realize that underneath your pea green carpet are hardwood floors. Once that you've removed the carpeting, you realize that the floors are completely covered in paint. Don't fret, it is possible to remove the paint and to restore your hardwood floors. It will take some hard work and patience, but you will end up with gorgeous wood floors.

Things You'll Need

• paint stripper
• rags
• Heat source
• putty knife
• Cheap paint brush
• professional quality sander

Instructions

1. First, it's important to understand that there are several ways that you can remove paint from your wood floors. The method that you chose is going to depend on the amount of paint that is on your floors and how long that it's been there.

2. 

   One of the most popular methods to remove paint is to use a paint stripper. Paint strippers can be extremely effective, but it's important to remember that strippers can contain harsh chemicals. If you choose to use paint strippers, start by making sure that you can work in a well ventilated area.

3. When using paint stripper, begin by purchasing a high quality paint stripper. Read the directions very carefully before beginning.

4. You'll want to use a cheap paint brush to apply the paint stripper to your floor. Many paint strippers will work better if you place plastic wrap over the paint stripper once that it's been applied. Follow the directions on your paint stripper regarding how long you should leave the stripper on the floor.

5. Now it's time to get the paint off the floor. Use a putty knife and carefully scrape away at the paint. This is time-consuming and you'll need a lot patience. You may need to apply additional stripper if you aren't able to get all of the paint off at one time.

6. Once you have removed all of the paint, clean the wood floor with water and a mild soap.

7. 

   If the idea of using a chemical stripper doesn't appeal to you, you can also rent a professional sander and sand your floors. This will work much faster, but it will take some of the wood off of your floor in the process.

8. 

   One last option is to purchase or rent an electric heat plate or heat gun. Heat works because it loosens the paint from the wood. You'll still need to use a putty knife to scrape the paint from your floor.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that you follow directions carefully and dispose of all items that you used carefully and properly.

• Be very careful when using heat, it is possible to start a fire if you are not careful.