How do professionals remove paint from wood?

Removing paint from wood can be a daunting task, especially if the wood has been painted multiple times or has many layers of paint built up. While it’s possible for an amateur to strip paint at home, professionals have access to more efficient tools and chemical strippers that make the job much easier. Hiring a professional to strip paint is advisable for large projects or complicated paint removal tasks. Read on to learn about the methods, tools, and techniques professionals use to effectively remove paint from wood surfaces.

Why Hire a Professional for Paint Removal?

There are several key reasons why you may want to hire a professional painter for paint removal rather than taking on the project as a DIY job:

• Efficiency – Professionals have specialized tools, strippers and methods that allow them to remove paint much faster than amateurs can do it. This saves a lot of time and labor.
• Experience – Painting pros have the knowledge and skills to deal with any type of paint, multiple layers, and difficult removal scenarios.
• Safety – Chemical strippers and power tools used for paint removal can be dangerous. Professionals know how to handle them appropriately.
• Cost – While hiring a pro costs more upfront, it often saves money in the long run by avoiding potential mistakes and damage that can happen with DIY methods.
• Quality Results – Skilled professionals deliver outstanding paint removal work and prep the wood properly for repainting if desired.

Bottom line – professionals have the right tools, products, knowledge and experience to strip paint quickly and effectively while avoiding damage to the underlying wood.

Chemical Paint Strippers Used by Professionals

One of the most important tools professionals use for removing paint from wood are chemical strippers. These solvents work to break down the layers of paint so they can be more easily scraped or brushed off the wood surface. Here are some of the most common chemical strippers used:

Methylene Chloride

Methylene chloride is an effective but very toxic and dangerous chemical stripper banned in many areas. It quickly dissolves multiple layers of paint in as little as 20-30 minutes. Professionals use it with caution along with protective gear.

N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP)

NMP is an efficient solvent used as an alternative to methylene chloride-based strippers. It removes paint in 30-60 minutes and is safer but still requires care when using.

Benzyl Alcohol

Benzyl alcohol works more slowly than other solvents but is safer for the user and better for the environment. It can take several hours up to overnight to work.

Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO)

DMSO softens and lifts multiple paint layers after being applied for 30-60 minutes. While safer than methylene chloride, appropriate safety gear should still be used.

Acetone

Hardware store acetone works on light paint coats but may take multiple applications and time for thicker paint. Professionals may use 100% industrial acetone.

Paint Remover Gels and Pastes

These thick paint removers cling to vertical surfaces better than liquid strippers. Many contain chemicals like NMP but are safer to use.

Professionals select the right chemical paint stripper based on factors like safety needs, paint type/thickness and whether a wood surface is horizontal or vertical.

Tools Used by Professionals for Paint Removal

In addition to chemical strippers, professionals also utilize an array of tools that speed up the paint removal process and make it much easier than DIY methods. Common tools include:

Heat Guns

A professional-grade heat gun delivers temperatures up to 1,200°F, allowing the heat to soften multiple layers of paint for easy scraping. Care is taken to avoid scorching the wood.

Infrared Paint Removers

These tools use infrared heat and can strip paint without chemicals in some cases. The heat causes the paint to bubble and blister so it can be peeled.

Paint Shaver Pro Tools

A specialty power tool with a rotating cutter head removes paint with speed and control. Vacuum attachments collect paint chips cleanly.

Pressure Washers

Used carefully, pressure washers blast off loose paint with water pressure. Lower pressures are used for wood to avoid damage.

Sanders

Both hand and power sanders are used to smooth wood and remove paint remnants after other stripping methods. Professionals use coarse 80-100 grit paper.

Scrapers

Various manual scrapers and stripping knives allow pros to efficiently peel off softened paint layers. Multi-sided scrapers conform to moldings.

Having the right professional paint removal tools makes stripping much faster and easier with better results.

Tips and Techniques for Professional Paint Removal

Here are some of the key techniques professionals use during the paint removal process:

• Clean the Surface – Remove dirt, cobwebs and loose paint with water, degreasers or scrapers first.
• Score the Paint – Use scoring tools to create deep grooves through all paint layers before stripping.
• Apply Chemicals Properly – Completely coat all paint layers and wait the recommended time before scraping.
• Use Low Heat Setting – High heat can scorch wood. Keep temperatures below 500°F when using heat guns.
• Scrape Carefully – Use scrapers at a 45° angle to avoid gouging the wood. Scrape slowly and gently.
• Neutralize Chemicals – Make sure to neutralize and clean stripped wood surfaces properly after using caustic strippers.
• Sand Smoothly – Use palm sanders with 80-100 grit paper to smooth stripped wood for painting prep.
• Work Safely – Wear gloves, goggles, respirators and work in ventilated areas when using chemical strippers.

Following the proper procedures helps professionals achieve the best paint removal results safely and efficiently.

DIY Methods vs Professional Paint Removal

While it’s possible to strip paint yourself using common household materials, DIY methods are often much more time-consuming and labor-intensive compared to hiring professionals.

Common DIY Paint Removal Methods

• Chemical paint strippers from hardware stores
• Heat guns
• Manual scraping with putty knives or wire brushes
• Sanding with sandpaper
• Using a pressure washer
• Applying solvents like acetone or paint thinner

Limitations of DIY Paint Removal

• Takes much more time and effort
• Less effective on multiple paint layers
• Higher risk of damage such as gouges or scorch marks
• Exposure to dangerous chemicals
• Inability to properly neutralize chemicals
• Doesn’t prepare the surface for repainting as well

Hiring professional painters for stripping large surfaces or complicated paint removal projects typically delivers better results in less time. Professionals also know how to properly prep the wood for new paint.

Costs of Professional Paint Removal

Professional paint removal services range in cost depending on several factors:

• Type of wood – Soft woods like pine are easier to strip than hardwoods like oak or mahogany.
• Surface area size – Larger square footage costs more to strip.
• Amount of paint – More layers or thicker paint requires more work.
• Detail level – Intricate woodworking, carvings and moldings take more effort.
• Location/accessibility – Difficult to reach areas like high exterior walls cost more.
• Geography – Labor rates vary across different regions.

Some typical price ranges:

• Whole room interior paint removal – $1,500 – $3,500
• Exterior siding paint removal – $2,500 – $6,000
• Paint removal prior to staining – $5-$8 per square foot
• Doors or furniture stripping – $100 – $500 per item

Get free estimates from at least 3 professional paint removal companies before choosing one.

Safety Tips for DIY Paint Removal

If you do decide to tackle paint removal as a DIY project, keep in mind some key safety measures:

• Work outdoors whenever possible for good ventilation
• Wear protective equipment – goggles, mask, gloves, long sleeves
• Read product labels and follow instructions carefully
• Test chemicals on small hidden areas first
• Keep heat guns moving constantly to avoid burning wood
• Neutralize chemicals with vinegar, citrus solvents or other recommended products
• Dispose of paint chips and chemicals properly – never down a drain

Working safely reduces the dangers posed by paint strippers, lead-based paint and power tools used in the stripping process. Consider taking a class if new to DIY refinishing.

Hiring Professional Paint Removal Services

Here are some tips for finding and selecting professional paint removal contractors for your project:

• Ask neighbors, friends and read local reviews to find top recommended companies.
• Look for licensed and insured painters experienced in paint removal specifically.
• Ask about their stripping methods – heat guns and chemical strippers should be used.
• Request photos of past stripping projects they’ve completed.
• Get at least 3-4 quotes to compare pricing.
• Read all contracts carefully and understand the timeline, costs and guarantees.
• Verify they follow proper protocols for lead paint and chemical neutralization if applicable.

Taking your time to find the right paint removal pro for the job will ensure excellent results.

Conclusion

Removing paint from wood can be a big endeavor, especially for large projects or surfaces with multiple paint layers. While it’s possible to strip paint at home using DIY methods, professionals have specialized tools, strippers, training and experience that allows them to get the job done faster and with outstanding results. Hiring a qualified paint removal contractor is worth considering for tough paint stripping jobs or when high quality and efficiency are priorities. Just be sure to do your research and get quotes from several pros before choosing the right paint removal services for your specific project.