- Paint removal

Dear Shell,

My question deals with paint removal. I'm not just talking about a little paint. This would be an accumulation of paint since 1927. My daughter and her husband just bought an old house (1927) and they (me too) want to bring it back to the old wood that was used to construct in those days. As usual, in many of the older homes the owners painted the wood over the years because it was the thing to do. Now we all want that "wood look" back. We have started to remove all of the casings and have uncovered some nice wood. We believe it is "Clear Fir" and we would like to refinish all of the wood without damaging the fiber.

About 2 years ago I was watching, dare I say "This Old House" and Mr. Vila was using a "non-toxic" paint remover in an old (100+ years) that he simply brushed on and place a piece of brown paper on top of the area. He came back to the house the next day and simply peeled off the paper along with all the many layers of paint with it, only disturbing the wood fibers a little that could be easily sanded leaving a beautiful wood to re-finish. Have you ever heard of such a product and if you have would you recommend this product? Would this product be "good" "better" or "best"? Lastly, is it available locally?

Thanks, Don

Dear Don,

The product to use for inside paint stripping is “Organic Stripper” a semi gel (non toxic/no odour) product. Brush on and allow to sit 5 – 10 minutes then scrape with a plastic scraper or paint removing pads (Scotchbrite abrasive pads). If you are removing outside paint use “Rinse or Peel” - brush on and peel or rinse off. Call Bio-Wash at 1 800-858-5011 for information on product availability in your area.

It's just that easy.

Article courtesy of: Shell Busey