How to Remove Black Paint From Walls

Black paint has a reputation of permanence that is not really deserved. While black is a polarizing color, it is no more permanent than any other color of paint. Like a wall painted light blue, a wall painted black can be covered with two coats of any color of high-quality paint. Or it can simply be removed with a commercial paint-removing solvent. These solvents go on the wall like paint, and soften the layers of paint on the wall so they may be easily removed.

Things You'll Need

• Semi-paste paint remover
• Plastic container
• Paint brush
• Plastic putty knife
• Rags
• Trash can with liner
• Liquid detergent soap
• Water

Instructions

1. With a putty knife, scrape any loose chips of paint off the wall.

2. Wash the wall with soap, water and a rag, then towel it dry.

3. Pour 1 cup of paint remover into a separate container. This will be your supply for the first patch of paint that you remove. Resist the temptation to start with a larger supply of paint remover (and never dip the paintbrush directly into the main supply). Starting with a small amount will restrict you to working within manageable areas, and you will be able to take off the paint remover in a timely fashion. If it dries and hardens, the paint will be that much more difficult to remove. After you have used the remover once and are more comfortable with the process, you can tackle larger areas.

4. Paint a thick layer of the paint remover onto the black paint. Let the paint remover sit for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer, usually 15 to 30 minutes. When the paint softens or begins to bubble, it is ready to be removed.

5. Scrape away the loosened paint with your plastic putty knife. As you remove it, dump the scraped-off paint into a trash can with a plastic liner.

6. Dip your rag in the paint remover, and use it to scrub away any residual paint.

7. Wipe the area with a rag moistened with water or a neutralizing solvent recommended by the manufacturer, then towel the area dry.

8. Reapply the paint remover to any stubborn patches of paint. Or if the paint was successfully removed, move on to the next section of paint, and repeat the steps.

Tips & Warnings

• Protect the area before you strip the paint. Place a dropcloth under your work area. Open a window, and place a fan in the room to provide adequate ventilation. Tape off any molding or fixtures that are directly adjacent to the area where you are working.

• The active ingredient in most chemical paint removers is methylene chloride. This chemical releases potentially harmful fumes. Make sure the room is well ventilated (fan and open window). Wear goggles, a breathing mask, chemical-resistant gloves, and long clothing whenever handling the remover.

• There are less caustic paint removers on the market, but they work more slowly and may require several applications to remove deep paint layers.

References

• This Old House: How to Strip Years of Paint Off a House
• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: What You Should Know About Using Paint Strippers