The Best Way to Remove Old Paint
Removing old paint from a surface creates a new canvas. Old paint often leaves an uneven surface or prevents new paint from sticking. The time it takes to remove the paint depends on the paint's thickness. After removing paint, you can add a fresh coat of paint or leave the surface as-is. For example, painted metal benches look clean and different after paint removal. Paint thinner, used to remove paint, is flammable, so don't use it near open flames. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Gloves
- Breath mask
- Drop cloth
- Paint thinner or stripper
- Paintbrushes
- Putty knives
- Trash can
- Paper towels
- Sandpaper
- Dish soap
- Mop bucket
- Sponge or rag
Instructions
-
-
1
Put on gloves and a breath mask. Place a drop cloth under the area to collect paint chips or residue.
-
2
Coat the painted area with paint thinner, using the paintbrushes. Let the thinner sit on the paint. The amount of time depends on the brand. Check the packaging instructions for the time limit.
-
-
3
Insert the edge of a putty knife into the loosened paint. Hold the putty knife at a 30- to 35-degree angle and push forward.
-
4
Tap the side of the putty knife onto the edge of a trash can to knock off the paint. Wipe the blade with a paper towel.
-
5
Scrape until the paint is removed. Use smaller putty knives to clean small areas.
-
6
Sand the area with fine grain sandpaper. This removes tiny specks of paint the putty knife can't clear.
-
7
Pour two to three drops of dish soap into a mop bucket. Fill the bucket almost full with warm water. Dip the rag or sponge into the water. Wring out the excess water. Wipe down the area where you removed the paint.
-
8
Roll up the drop cloth. Take it outside and unroll it over a trash can to dispose of any fallen paint chips.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If the paint being removed is old (1970 or earlier) contact a painting company. Old paint contains lead.
References
- Photo Credit putty knife image by Jim Mills from Fotolia.com
