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Tips for Effective Paint Removal

Paint Maintenance | August 23, 2022

From peeling paint to a change in colour preferences, there are several reasons to remove paint from your walls or exterior siding. While removing paint may seem like a straightforward task to some, there are several considerations and steps to keep in mind to ensure optimal results while avoiding damage to the surface beneath the paint. As a leading provider of complete exterior and interior painting services in Vancouver, the team at Dunbar Painting knows how difficult paint removal can be without proper preparation. That is why we have provided some tips for effective paint removal to help you get the job done right or determine if it would be better to hire a professional.

Learn about the differences between interior and exterior paint.

3 Tips to Effectively Remove Paint from Your Walls or Siding

To safely remove paint from your walls or siding without damaging the surface underneath, be sure to keep the following tips in mind:

1. Determine the Type of Paint and Number of Layers

Stripping paint is more difficult and time-consuming than it appears. If your home features old lead-based paint, it may even be dangerous. That is why it is crucial to determine the type of paint you are dealing with and how many layers are on the surface(s) you will be working on. Paint testing kits are available to help you determine if your paint is lead-based. If it is, it is strongly recommended to contact a professional to perform the removal as they will take all necessary precautions to ensure safety throughout your home.

2. Use an Electric Sander Until the Edges Are no Longer Peeling

Orbital or belt sanders are great options for removing exterior paint from wooden siding, though you will need to take care not to apply too much pressure to the surface as this can damage it. To ensure smooth paint removal with a scraper, use an electric sander until the edges of the paint are no longer peeling. This will make it easier to remove the remaining paint from the surface, saving you time and effort. It is crucial to note that you should not use a sander for lead-based paint as this can drastically increase the risk of lead poisoning.

3. Use a Chemical Stripper to Remove Multiple Layers of Paint

If you are dealing with multiple layers of paint, it may be best to utilize a chemical-based paint stripping product. While some paint stripping products are extremely powerful and will cause paint to instantly bubble away, others are weaker and intended to soften the paint for manual removal with a scraper. Be sure to choose a suitable strength based on the number of paint layers and the difficulty of the job.

To learn more about our exterior and interior painting solutions or to discuss the details of your project, get in touch with the team at Dunbar Painting. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have about our services.


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