Hyde Job Guides

How to Strip a Finish with Chemical Stripper

A compatible chemical remover lifts cured paint, varnish or lacquer from a surface. Match the remover to the coating and substrate, test a patch, then strip in sections.

What you need

• Model 44240Refinishing Gloves, Neoprene, (1 pair) $6.96 each$4.73 each at 100 or more

  Add
• Model 95015Richard Near white wipers $14.92 each$12.68 each at 12 or more

  Add
• Model 95012Richard 12' x 15' Dropcloth $41.08 each$34.91 each at 12 or more

  Add

• a remover whose label lists your coating and surface
• its label, data sheet and safety data sheet
• approved applicator, scraper and brush
• waste container and cleanup supplies

Steps

1. Name the coating, the surface and why you are stripping. Check the remover's label lists both.
2. Write down the label's applicator, thickness, dwell, cleanup and glove directions before you open the can.
3. Strip a hidden test patch the full way: lift, wash, dry, then check for color change, raised grain and loose glue.
4. Set up clean, active and waste zones. Lay containment with the edges turned up and open the waste container.
5. Ventilate outward and remove ignition sources. Put on the correct gloves and eye protection.
6. Apply the remover at full thickness in sections you can finish. Keep it off bare wood, joints and hardware.
7. At the label's inspection time, probe a spot. Lift the loosened coating into the waste container with shallow strokes.
8. Clean exactly as the label directs, let the piece dry fully, then sand only if the lead plan allows.

Tips

• Do not thin the remover. A thin film dries before it works.
• Wipe the scraper at the container after every pass. Do not smear a thick load across the surface.
• Do not leave it overnight by default. Long dwell can darken wood, attack glue and stain metal.
• Use nylon brushes where metal is barred. Brass or stainless only if both the remover and the surface allow.

Watch out

Questions about the right tool for your job? Email cs@hydestore.com or call 508-916-6442.