There are few home improvement projects as exciting as exterior painting – the chance to radically transform your home’s appearance while simultaneously boosting its curbside appeal is enticing and rewarding. However, there are several steps involved in the exterior painting process, and one that people often neglect to consider is the removal of the existing paint. This step is a big part of what ensures the lasting success of your new coat of paint. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Do I Need to Remove the Older Paint First?
There are several reasons why you should want to remove all the old paint, but the primary ones include:
- New paint adheres more effectively to a clean, bare surface. Painting over old, peeling, or uneven paint can result in poor adhesion, leading to premature cracking or peeling.
- Over time, multiple layers of paint can create a thick, uneven surface, making it harder to achieve a clean, polished look. Removing the old paint also eliminates this buildup.
- Stripping the paint allows you to inspect the surface for damage, such as rot, cracks, or areas of moisture. You’ll want to address these issues before even thinking about repainting.
- Older homes might also contain lead-based paints, which can be hazardous if they aren’t properly removed.
How Is Older Paint Removed?
It’s crucial that the surface being painted is clean, dull, and dry before the new paint is applied, and every bit of older paint needs to be removed. There are a few common methods for doing this:
- Sanding and scraping method – This is one of the more commonly used techniques; a combination of sanding and scraping tools can be used to remove paint and feather sand the edges where the paint is peeling. Similarly, paint shavers can be used.
- Thermal paint removal – Thermal methods are excellent for removing multiple layers of paint, especially if previous paint is peeling, cracking, or alligatoring. It involves using a blow torch, heat gun, heating plates, or infrared heaters to permeate the top layer of paint and begin removing the sub-coats.
- Chemical paint strippers – These contain active ingredients that penetrate the paint film and cause it to swell, releasing it from the substrate. There are many different chemical ingredients, some more dangerous than others, so always wear protective equipment when using caustic or methylene strippers.
Of course, you shouldn’t feel as though you have to go through this entire process yourself – after all, it may seem like a daunting task. Thankfully, a skilled team of professionals would be more than happy to perform paint removal and then carry out your entire project!
About Platinum Painting of Fort Worth
Our team here at Platinum Painting of Fort Worth has proudly assisted homeowners all across the DFW metroplex for over 15 years, offering assistance with a wide range of projects including both interior and exterior painting for residential and commercial clients. If you have any questions about the blog or would like to get in touch with us to set up a FREE in-home estimate, please feel free to reach out online or call us today. Telephone: (817) 380-4404.