Removing Paint with Chemical Paint Strippers

Stripping Paint with Chemical Paint Remover   

Introduction:

When refinishing furniture, wooden window frames and other items around the house often the old paint finish must be removed first. This is not always an easy task and it is often messy. The best way to remove old paint is simply by sanding it off, but this isn’t always possible. The items may have a veneer wood finish that is only a few thousands of an inch thick.

Attempting to sand a veneer wood finish will destroy the wood veneer. When sanding is not practical the only other alternative is to use a chemical paint stripper. Removing paint with a chemical paint stripper is highly effective at removing old paint but requires precautions.  

Although some paint removers are very effective at removing paint by removing the paint quickly and easily, chemical paint removers are highly caustic. Caustic paint strippers should not be used indoors because of the health hazards. If at all possible they should only be used outdoors or in a well ventilated space.

Some of the chemicals paint strippers and their chemicals used in chemical paint strippers are as follows;

Methylene chloride paint strippers can remove multiple layers of paint very quickly however they are considered hazardous and require ventilation. They also require more than one reapplication because they evaporate quickly. When working with these paint strippers you should wear an organic vapor respirator with a new cartridge.

NMP and DBE strippers (N-methyl pyrrolidone and di-basic esters) are considered safer to use than methylene chloride but they are slower acting. They also require good ventilation and may require you to wear an organic vapor respirator. They are generally a better choice than methylene chloride for the DIY  homeowner.

The best choice is to use caustic paint strippers that remove multiple layers of paint and have non-toxic fumes. These require a vinegar rinse before reapplying the finish. However, they are not recommended for use on hardwoods or veneer finishes.

Removing paint with chemical paint strippers can be very hazardous. Always use chemical paint strippers outside the home if at all possible. If it is not possible the work space should be well ventilated and an organic respirator should be worn.

Related articles:

Painting Safety Tips

Pealing Concrete Floor Paint

Priming and Pre-finishing Wood Trim