When choosing the best paint stripper, people immediately think that using liquid removers is the only way. They also believe these products are all just the same. Many mistakenly just grab the first can they see on the shelf and hope it will do the job.
They may hit the jackpot and get the right one that works effectively without affecting the painted surface. There is also an equal chance that it will not easily remove the paint or even cause damage to whatever surface it is applied on.
Before you make the same mistake as others did, familiarize yourself with the different ways to help you choose the most appropriate one. Removal on any surface is generally done in two ways: through chemical ones in liquid form and via non-chemical means.
Liquid options are categorized into three: biochemical, caustic, and solvent. Here are the factors to consider
Biochemical
The most environment-friendly of the three, biochemical products use plant-based solvents. It may consist of one of the following ingredients:
- lactic acid from corn sugar
- terpenes from citrus rinds or pine trees
- citric acid
- dimethylsulfoxide from wood pulp
- and an organic compound called NMP or N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone
- among others.
Because it uses mostly natural ingredients, this type hardly emits any odors. Unfortunately, this compromises its ability to work as efficiently as many other options. It lacks the chemicals that can easily and swiftly do so. It will take time before the entire paint is removed when using biochemical products. Despite this, it can be used on any surface without causing damage. Multiple applications may be needed.
It’s safer than caustic and solvent solutions. The NMP present is risky for women and those exposed to it for long periods and can cause reproductive issues. That is why it should still be used with caution.
Caustic
On the other hand, the caustic ones are water-based and use lye as their main ingredient. The lye used in this type can either be caustic potash or caustic soda, better known as sodium hydroxide.
It has a high pH level, typically ranging from 13 to 14. It works by breaking down the chemicals present. It is done by applying a thick layer, ranging from 1/8 to 1/4 inch. It’s put over the surface and allows around 30 minutes of dwell time. However, this type is ineffective in a -10 degrees Celsius environment.
The lye present will react to the dried paint to turn it into soap, allowing it to be lifted or loosened from the surface it was applied to. But due to its alkalinity, neutralizing the surface afterward is important. It is done by applying a solution of water and vinegar afterward.
It is considered the best latex paint remover. It can also work on oil-based and enamel products well on certain surfaces. It does not work with acrylics, polyurethane, and epoxy. Also, it tends to corrode aluminum and cause the hardwood to blacken. Not only that but it is also known for attracting moisture, which can damage the wood.
While water-based, it must still be handled carefully because it is known to irritate the lungs and eyes or even skin burns.
Solvent
Solvents are known for having the most VOCs present. Solvent solutions include chemicals that allow paint and coating, including epoxy and polyurethane. It can also be acrylic or polyaspartic. They cause the paint to swell up or bubble. The bond that adheres to the surface is softened up or dissolved by these chemicals, allowing easy removal. While neutralizing is unnecessary, the surface needs to be washed with either mineral spirits or water after removing the paint.
Methylene Chloride used to be the primary component of solvent products, but its known health risks make it dangerous. This compound has now been banned for consumer use. Other compounds are being used, such as toluene and acetone.
Because of the higher amount of chemicals and VOCs present, solvent solutions pose more health risks. They are known to emit the strongest fumes. On the upside, these chemicals also make them quite corrosive and great for heavy-duty use. And unlike caustic ones, they can be used even in a cold environment without issue.
Aside from chemical means, paint can also be removed by using heat, sanding, or power washing.
Heat
Using heat should be done with caution, especially if a torch or a heat gun is used. A torch has an open flame to remove paint, which can be a fire hazard. A heat gun can also cause fires and create toxic fumes despite being flameless. A low-intensity infrared heater is ideal for this method. Still, it also has limitations regarding which surfaces it can be used on. But regardless of what tool is used, the heat causes the material to soften up. It allows it to be scraped off easily.
Sanding
Either done using a machine or hand, sanding will work through friction. This method can be considered intrusive, as it may also strip away layers of the surface to which paint is applied.
Power Washing
Not everyone knows that power washing is not just for cleaning. It can also be used to remove paint, especially on exterior surfaces. However, this method can be challenging. Mishandling a power washer or using the wrong amount of pressure can cause damage to any surface.
Before starting the work and regardless of which method will be used, it is vital to determine if there are lead-based parts. It can be dangerous if the house dates back to 1978 or earlier. The process will disturb lead and create dust and chips that can be easily inhaled or absorbed. It may cause lead poisoning that can lead to death.
Lead test kits can be used to know whether it is safe to work on a particular surface or not without special safety precautions. Buying in bulk is practical for large-scale projects on such homes because a basic kit will not be enough to test all suspected areas. They can only be used in a single room on average.
Water-Based vs. Oil-Based
When it comes to painting, water-based and oil-based products are quite different. It’s from application to removal. It is important to understand the differences between a water-based and an oil-based remover.
Latex or acrylic, water-based products are easier to remove than oil-based ones. They can even be done manually without using chemicals. Water-based paint that is not yet completely dry can even be removed by soap and water. Just apply some elbow grease.
Sanding and heat can also work on water-based materials quickly. But if using the products mentioned on this page, caustic strippers work best for latex ones. In contrast, solvent ones are suitable for acrylic products. While both are water-based, acrylics are resistant to the chemicals found in acidic products. It’s unlike latex ones.
On the other hand, oil-based materials are tougher to remove. That is why the stronger solvent and heat are used instead. More effort is needed when dealing with oil-based compared to water-based ones. That is why its compatible products are harsher.
Biochemical products can be used for both oil and water-based products. They will require more time. Despite its versatility, it is the least aggressive type. Because of this, the dwelling time can take several hours to an entire day before it can fully penetrate the paint and allow easy removal. Also, it will take several coats before you’re entirely done.
Zero VOC Options
Some prefer a safer method through liquid means but would rather avoid the lengthy process involving biochemical strippers. A zero VOC solution is ideal.
The VOCs present makes them dangerous to use, especially to pregnant women. It is because VOCs can evaporate. When they interact with the gases present in the atmosphere, they can create harmful ozone gas.
The strong fumes emitted when opening a can indicate the level of VOCs present. The stronger the smell, the more VOCs present. Unfortunately, the smell is not the only aspect everyone should watch out for. There are so many health hazards attributed to VOCs, such as:
- Cancer
- Kidney damage
- Liver problems
- Damage to the central nervous system, especially the brain
- Irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat
- Nausea
- Recurring headaches
- Chronic fatigue
That is why it is vital to limit exposure to any substance that contains them. Solvent strippers are known to have the most amount of VOCs present among the three, typically followed by caustic ones. While biochemical solutions use natural ingredients, they may still contain certain amounts of VOCs. It is hard to determine the actual presence.
On the other hand, Zero VOC is generally considered the safest due to the minimal amount of VOCs present. Because of this, the health risks are as good as eliminated. Those who use it no longer have to deal with fumes because zero VOC products will hardly emit odors. And due to the lack of these toxic compounds, they are also an eco-friendly option.
