Paint Removal Techniques

Scraping

• If you're re-painting exterior siding, walls or trim that have peeling paint on them, sometimes you just need the loose paint removed and can leave the rest. A metal paint-scraper works wonders in that situation. Press the two blades of the scraper flat to the surface, and press one hand on the back of it (there is often a knob there for that purpose). Grip the handle with the other hand, and drag the scraper backward over the surface to take off the loose paint.

Chemicals and Heat

• Chemical strippers are ideal for removing all the paint from wood trim. You brush it on, wait for it to cause the paint to soften and ripple and then scrape it off with a plastic putty knife. Wear rubber gloves and eye protection. Ventilate the room. Using a heat gun is a different way to achieve the same result, though it doesn't always work as well. In both cases, take off the last of the residue with steel wool soaked in mineral spirits.

Pressure Washers

• For outdoor paint removal under certain conditions, use a rented pressure washer to strip off loose paint. This is a good plan for hard house siding or painted brick with thinly flaking paint. Rent a washer and pressure tank rated at 3,000 pounds per square inch and begin by holding the nozzle about a foot from the painted surface. Move it along slowly, adjusting the distance of the nozzle so that it takes off the loose paint without damaging the surface. Let the surface thoroughly dry before re-painting.