Paint Stripping 101: 3 Methods and When to Use Them

As you gear up for another home painting project, you’ve probably thought out what themes you’d like to follow. Maybe you’re testing out a few color swatches in different rooms, or perhaps you’ve selected some interesting stencils to make patterns around the room. You’re equipped with your brushes, rollers, paint trays, and drop cloths, but have you picked up your paint stripping materials?

Often, homeowners simply paint over their old coat of paint rather than stripping it off and starting fresh. While this is ok if your old paint is in great condition, it can make a less-than-perfect foundation for your new paint, leaving you with chips and peeling earlier than you expected. If you’d like to strip off your old paint before your project commences, here are 3 different methods to consider:

• Mechanical stripping. This method isn’t quite as fancy as it sounds, as it involves manually removing old paint with sandpaper, scrapers, brushes, and other materials. Many people use rotary tools with the proper attachments to help speed the process along. While this is the least expensive option, it is also the most labor-intensive and time-consuming. If you decide to go this route, be sure to wear eye protection and a mask in case any dust enters the air.
• Pressure washing or sandblasting. Obviously, you wouldn’t use a pressure washer indoors, but this is a great option to help you get ready for a new coat of exterior paint. Many pressure washers are equipped to peel away old paint and are easy enough to use with a little practice. When you’re first starting out, however, be sure to test your washer or particle blaster on an inconspicuous location, and never direct the nozzle toward yourself–they can pack a punch.
• Paint stripping chemicals. In the event that none of these options work, you may need to turn to paint stripping chemicals that wear away paint by loosening its bonds and breaking it down. This is really a last resort option and should only be handled by professionals, as the chemicals can be very dangerous; when exposed to bare skin, it can cause severe burns, and it can also eat away at your walls if left on too long.

Paint stripping can be a difficult process. If you’re not sure whether or not you need to strip off your old paint, why not let the professionals handle the job? You can speak to your Orlando painting team to find out their recommendations and see if they can do the dirty work for you. To learn more or to schedule your free estimate, call New Ceilings at (407) 378-6040 today.