How to Strip Paint From an Aluminum Door

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Things You'll Need

  • Pressure washer

  • Paint stripper

  • 3-inch oil-based paintbrush

  • Plastic putty knife

  • Steel wool

  • Mineral spirits

  • Rags

Stripping paint from wood can be a difficult endeavor. Because wood is porous, it absorbs the adhesives found within paint, creating a bond that can be difficult to break. Fortunately, if you need to strip paint from an aluminum door, you are in a much better position. Because metal is nonporous, it is not a conducive surface for strong paint adhesion. In addition, its durability allows for aggressive stripping techniques based on abrasion. Still, use care, or you could damage the underlying surface by accident.

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Step 1

Apply concentrated water pressure to the door, using a pressure washer. Begin on a low setting, and gradually increase pressure. Remove as much paint as possible, but do not become too aggressive as this may cause unintended damage. Allow the door to dry out completely.

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Step 2

Apply paint stripper to the aluminum door, using a 3-inch oil-based paintbrush. Allow the stripper to soak for five minutes.

Step 3

Scrape away as much paint as possible with a plastic putty knife.

Step 4

Repeat steps 3 and 4 until all or most of the paint has been removed.

Step 5

Apply mineral spirits to any remaining bits of paint with a rag, and remove the paint by scrubbing it with steel wool.

Tip

A pressure washer could potentially dent an aluminum door. Always begin on a low setting, and gradually increase pressure.

Warning

Paint stripper and mineral spirits are flammable. Do not work with these solvents while smoking or next to an open flame.

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