Homeowner’s Guide to Paint Strippers and Removers

All About Paint Strippers

Paint strippers (a.k.a. paint removers) are chemical compounds designed to quickly lift and peel away paint, varnish, lacquer and other coatings from surfaces like wood, MDF, metal and masonry. The main categories of strippers/removers found in stores today include:

Caustics

These removers work by breaking down the chemical bonds of the polymers in the paint.

Cons: May burn skin and cause lung irritation.

Biochemical

Stripping agents derived from plants, these citrus- and soy-based formulas are less toxic and somewhat safer to use. Many are biodegradable but some are not, so be sure to read labels carefully.

Cons: Can irritate the skin.

Solvents

Strippers/removers in this category penetrate the paint to dissolve the bond between surfaces and paint.

Cons: Can cause skin swelling, irritation and blisters.

Heat

Becoming more popular in recent years, heat guns and steamers propel hot air to loosen paint on surfaces. Not economical for one-off jobs, it is, however, a good option if you’re doing a lot of paint stripping.

Cons: Fire hazard if not used properly.

About Methylene Chloride

On March 15, 2019, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the manufacture and sale of methylene chloride paint removers. As Andrew Raker, third-generation owner of Clark Paint in West Springfield, Mass. points out, “With the outlawing of methylene chloride’s use in paint strippers, the new alternatives work but be prepared to wait longer for the stripper to do the job.”

Because there may still be products containing methylene chloride floating around on store shelves, be sure to check the ingredients before buying to avoid the serious health risks associated with their use.

As with any household solvent, when using a paint stripper, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and work only in well-ventilated areas. Always wear protective clothing and use proper safety equipment like gloves, respirators and goggles. Most importantly, store these products out of reach of children and pets.