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How to Get Old Latex Paint Spills Off Wood

Latex paint spills adhere as well to wood as latex paint that's supposed to be there. This bond loosens somewhat if the spill is old, but removing it can still be daunting. Fortunately, getting rid of the paint is not as difficult as some people think, and can be accomplished with a few basic steps. Follow these instructions in order, stopping when all of the paint has been removed.

Things You'll Need

  • Steel paint scraper
  • Heat gun
  • Protective gloves
  • Respirator
  • Sandpaper
  • Electric sander (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Scrape the paint with a steel paint scraper to remove any loose flakes, working in the direction of the wood grain. Do not press hard enough to gouge the wood surface.

    • 2

      Soften the paint with a heat gun, holding it 4 to 6 inches away from the wood surface. Keep the heat gun in constant motion until the paint begins to bubble, then scrape it off with the paint scraper.

    • 3

      Sand any remaining paint off, either by hand or with an electric sander. Begin with 60-grit sandpaper to remove the paint, then resand with 100 and 150-grit to smooth any sanding marks left behind.