Effective Methods of Stripping Paints From Wood and Metal

 Almost everyone would agree that painting is the best way to add more life to furniture or any other item, which they need to restore. They also agree with the fact that painting these items needs a lot of preparation, which, essentially include stripping the existing paint. This is not an easy task as most people find it time consuming and a bit laborious as well. Commonly, people make use of traditional methods of paint stripping. Some of them are effective, but they are harmful to the surface.

However, there are a few methods in use these days that are capable of removing the existing paint easily without damaging the underlying surface of the painted object. These methods are good for removing stubborn layers of paint as well. The most effective color strippers can be listed below:

Electric Paint/ color Stripper:

This type of paint strippers works with mains electricity. It is plugged in and switched on. It generates a small amount of heat which when held near to the painted surface warms the paint and loosens or blisters it. The task of stripping the loosened paint then becomes easier. As long as the stripper is not held too close to the paint, it will not have a harmful effect on the underlying substrate. Care should be taken when removing the loosened paint so no damage is done to the substrate.

Blow torch:

Various types of blowtorches are available on the market today. They essentially remove paint by use of a flame. Although the experts do not recommend this for wooden surfaces, some professionals use them to remove paints from all types of surfaces, including wood. After lighting the torch, it is held close to the painted surface. The flame can be controlled by the user. Blowtorches must not be used by the novice. They can cause severe damage. The user must not hold the torch in one place for a long time, especially when stripping paint from wooden surfaces. However, blowtorches are quite effective with metallic objects.

Chemical Paint/ color stripper:

As the name itself tells, the chemical color stripper makes use of various types of chemicals that work well to remove paint from any surface. A number of chemical paint strippers are available at the moment that work effectively. However, most of these color strippers emit harmful fumes and that is why they are not popular amongst users. They have some negative impact on the environment as well.

Water-based paint stripper:

This type of a paint stripper is rated as the safest from all aspects. Such a paint stripper is prepared with water as the main constituent. It is capable of removing thick layers of paint from all surfaces including wood and metal. It does not emit any harmful fumes and that is why it is safe for humans as well as the human environment.

The painting professionals make use of all these paint-stripping methods as per their own convenience. They have their own strengths and shortcomings. The users must be careful about using them keeping their harmful effects in their mind.