Paint Strippers & Removers

Paint strippers & removers help you lift old coatings quickly and cleanly, saving hours of sanding and preserving delicate surfaces. Choose from gel, paste, or liquid formulas to tackle latex and oil-based paints, polyurethane, epoxy, varnish, shellac, lacquer, and stubborn adhesives on wood, metal, masonry, and concrete. Gel and paste cling to vertical surfaces and carved details, while liquids suit flat panels and dip-tank jobs.

Options include fast-acting solvent blends, caustic sodium hydroxide solutions for thick, multi-layer paint, and eco-focused citrus or soy-based removers with low odor and low VOCs. Many modern products are methylene chloride–free yet still heavy duty, making them safer for DIY and professional use. Look for features like long open time, color-change indicators, and re-wettable skins that extend dwell time for thick build-ups.

Application is straightforward: test a small area, apply a generous coat with a brush or spray, let it work, then lift softened paint with a plastic or carbide scraper. For crevices, use brass brushes, abrasive pads, or steel wool. Rinse or neutralize as directed—water for water-based strippers, mineral spirits for solvent types, and vinegar or proprietary neutralizers for caustic formulas. Allow the surface to dry before sanding, staining, or repainting.

Safety matters. Work with gloves, eye protection, and good ventilation or a respirator rated for organic vapors. Protect adjacent finishes and plants, and collect debris on drop cloths. Dispose of sludge and rinsate according to local regulations, especially with lead-based coatings; follow lead-safe practices like containment and HEPA vacuuming.

Coverage and speed vary by product, temperature, and coating thickness. Plan for multiple passes on old, alligatored layers. A quality paint remover paired with scrapers, putty knives, and cleanup tools restores doors, trim, furniture, decks, and metal hardware, leaving a cleaner substrate and better-looking results. Choose coverage, dwell time, and safety to match projects.