What Dissolves Latex Paint Build-up?

Warm Water and Soap

• Warm water and dish soap may not dissolve many layers of latex paint build-up on walls. However, it dissolves latex paint that has built up and dried on paint brushes. It is a safer alternative to paint brush revival products which, according to Tim Carter at the Ask the Builder website, can be very toxic and cause health problems. Hold the paint brush at a sharp angle under warm running water so that the water runs off the brush bristles. Then dip the brush repeatedly into a jar of warm, soapy water. Let the brush stand in a jar of warm, clear water for a few hours to ensure that all of the latex paint build-up has been removed.

Isopropyl Alcohol

• Isopropyl alcohol dissolves old latex paint build-up. However, test a small area where the paint needs to be removed first to ensure that the isopropyl alcohol does not damage the surface beneath the paint. Wet the paint build-up with isopropyl alcohol and a rag. Cover the wet surface with plastic wrap to prevent the alcohol from evaporating by taping the plastic wrap into place. Remove the plastic wrap after about an hour, and wash the paint build-up away with warm soap and water.

Paint Remover

• Paint remover products are intended for use in areas where there is a small amount of surface paint build-up, such as on a carpet or a piece of furniture. Spray or wipe these water-based removal products onto the latex paint build-up to dissolve it. Read the manufacturer's label first to determine if the product will remove latex paint and is safe for the designated area of removal.

Paint Stripper

• Paint stripper products can remove many built-up layers of latex paint on walls. Spray or wipe these products on the paint surface. Peel away the paint layers with a putty knife after exposing them to a paint stripper. However, it may take several applications of a paint stripper before all of the old latex paint is removed. Both paint remover and paint stripper can contain acetone and other harmful chemicals that require room ventilation and the use of a face mask.