Five Methods for Varnish and Paint Removal

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Whether you wish to repaint a piece of furniture, fence post, or any other object, you must first remove any existing coats of varnish or paint to achieve a spotless finish. This is the number one rule for repainting! If you are not using effective methods of paint removal, not only will your project take a considerable amount of time, it may not work at all. Learn about the five most effective methods for paint and varnish removal, and make the experience easier, faster, and flawless!

Chemical Paint Removers

One of the most common methods for removing old paint is chemical strippers and solvent removers. These come in several forms and should be selected according to personal preference. This means choosing whichever application process or product you are most comfortable with using. Aerosol sprays spray-on as a foam and are by-far the easiest and least expensive option. And regular paint remover sprays are similar, and best for smaller objects and projects.

If you are undertaking a larger project, you might be better off using a thicker chemical paint remover. For example, you can choose a gel or paste-like, brush-on chemical paint remover. This is also best for ceilings and walls to prevent dripping. For removing only a few layer of paint or when working around irregular areas, use a liquid remover because they dry quickly. Although a bit pricier, there are non-toxic, chemical-free solvents available on the market for those who prefer an eco-friendly approach.

Electric Paint Removers

Electric paint removers are sold on the market and come in a variety of styles and models. They contain a heating plate, or heating element, that heats paint until it bubbles and peels, allowing for easier removal. But don’t think this is the only step to using an electric paint removal tool! Manual scraping comes after! The heat tool simply breaks down the old paint so that it can be easily removed with a scraping tool. Electric paint remover tools can cost anywhere from $30 to $100 or more, depending on the retailer, brand, and its features.

Scraping

On the subject of using electric paint remover tools, scraping is just one other common method for such a job. Although it is manual labor, it is one of the most basic and oldest methods of removing paint and varnish. This is the recommended method for fragile pieces like antique furniture and other delicate objects. To scrape away old paint coats, use a paint scraper tool or a putty knife. If there is an abundance of chipped paint that needs scraped, it is suggested to use a high-pressure water hose to remove the majority of loose paint, and then proceed with manual scraping. To make scraping easier, incorporate a chemical solvent as well.

Sanding

Another manual approach to paint removal is sanding. Using abrasives to remove paint is effective because the grit material of the sandpaper slowly and evenly works away at the old coat. You can use sandpaper sheets or a sanding machine, depending on the object or surface area. If using a sanding machine, choose an electrical orbital disc sander.

Dipping

For smaller objects or individual pieces, dipping is an effective method for paint removal. Dipping is just that: submersing an object into a liquid caustic solution until the paint begins to slip off. This is generally a method used by professionals since they retain access to the proper tools, supplies, and products.

For the best paint removal outcomes, hire a professional painting service for all your repainting and paint removal needs.

Restoration By L & B, LLC

General Contractors Indianapolis Indiana 317-454-3612

General Contractors 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional painting services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and licensed general contractor, Lee Elliot, provides residential and commercial painting service at the most competitive prices in town. We will beat any competitor’s price, guaranteed! Call 317-454-3612 for free estimates and information about interior and exterior painting services in Indianapolis, and its surrounding neighborhoods.