How to Remove Old Paint From a Window Frame

Layers of paint can stack up on the walls and windows of older homes. At some point the old paint needs to be removed completely so you can start fresh with a new coat of paint or stain. There are several methods for paint removal. Chemical strippers will get the job done but the process will take a lot of time and the chemicals may harm the plants in your yard and your lungs. Sanding will also remove the old paint but will require a lot of elbow grease. Steam is an excellent way to remove paint from a window frame and won’t leave you reeling from exhaustion or fumes.

Hand-held steamer
Gloves
Putty knife
Paint scraper

Instructions

- 1
  Plug in your steamer and let it heat up for 10 to 15 minutes.
- 2
  Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands from burns. Wear long sleeves and long pants to protect the rest of your body.
- 3
  Hold the steamer head over the painted wood. Let the steam soften the old paint for 30 seconds to one minute. Remove the steamer head.
- 4
  Scrape the paint from the window frame with a dull putty knife. The paint will lift easily from the wood.
- 5
  Move the steamer onto another area and repeat the process. Continue with this method until all of the paint is removed. Some light paint residue might remain. The residue will be soft.
- 6
  Scrape off the remaining paint residue with a paint scraper. Hold the scraper firmly in one hand and pull the tool toward you to pull up the paint.

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