What is the best paint stripper?

Great Answer

Professionally Researched. (What's this?)

On One Hand: Making It Easy

Years ago stripping paint was accomplished with intensive sanding or heat application; today caustic strippers make the process much easier. These strippers are in liquid and paste form, virtually eliminating the dangers of lead paint dust. They are easy to apply and easy to remove. Most importantly, they remove paint; even multiple layers of paint.

On the Other: Weigh the Consequences

Caustic strippers are just that, caustic. They can burn your skin or damage your eyes. Some strippers may darken wood, raise the grain or react with metals. Caustic strippers are more expensive than the more traditional methods of sanding and scraping. Disposal of the strippers can be problematic; some of the solvents in strippers are hazardous waste.

Bottom Line

The best paint stripper is that which fully removes the paint without damaging the underlying surface, without harming the worker and that is affordable. Caustic paint strippers, used properly, fit the bill. You can find any strength stripper for your job to reduce damage and improve safety; and as the demand for strippers increases, so does the supply. Non-volatile organic strippers make disposal easy and safe.

Source:

This Old House: How to Strip Years of Paint Off a House

Old House Journal: Making Sense of Paint Strippers

University of Missouri Extension: Store Hazardous Products Safely

Ohio State University Extension: Chemical Skin Irritants for Trainers and Supervisors (pdf)

Ask the Builder: Paint Removers

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