Removing old paint from a wall requires a lot of patience and can be time-consuming and expensive. It can take hours, or sometimes even days, to remove paint from a wall. So, if you don’t absolutely need to remove the paint, we recommend using alternatives such as primer, paste, or plaster to cover the paint on the wall. However, if you are still determined to remove the paint, this article explains how to do so.
How to Remove Old Paint from Wall
If there is excessive cracking or peeling in the paint on the wall, you may need to remove all the paint. Before stripping paint from a wall, it’s important to determine the right method based on the type of paint and the size of the wall. Now, let’s explain how to remove paint from a wall according to different types of paint.
You can use sandpaper, paint remover, and a heat gun to remove water-based paint from the wall. Let’s take a closer look at these methods so you can easily decide how to remove the paint from the wall.
1-Use a Sander
Sanding is one of the best ways to remove old paint from a wall. However, sanding with sandpaper can be time-consuming and exhausting. Therefore, using a sanding machine can make the process easier and more efficient.
If you have furniture in the room, sanding the walls can cause a lot of dust to accumulate on the furniture and the floor. To keep the dust contained, cover the furniture and the floor with a cloth, and securely tape the edges with painter’s tape. Otherwise, the dust will still reach the furniture and floor. Even with coverings, dust can still find its way inside. For this reason, sanding is not highly recommended in homes with furniture. However, if you still wish to use this method to remove the paint, be sure to wear a mask and safety goggles, clean the dust from the wall with a damp cloth, and ensure the wall is properly prepared for primer or paint. “Related article: How to paint a room wall fast?”
2-Paint Remover Works for Small Walls
Another way to remove old paint from a wall is by using a paint remover. Paint removers can be more expensive than sandpaper, so using them might be more practical for smaller walls. You can also opt for an odorless or scented paint remover for a more pleasant experience.
Apply the paint remover to the wall and wait about half an hour for the paint to soften. Then, use a metal spatula to scrape off the paint. If the paint doesn’t come off completely, repeat the process.
After removing the paint from the wall, it’s important to thoroughly clean the wall to ensure that any leftover paint remover residue doesn’t damage the new paint, primer, or plaster. Wipe down or wash the walls with clean water.
3-Use a Heat Gun
Heat guns work by producing high temperatures that cause paint to crack or soften, making it easier to remove from the wall. However, this method is somewhat more dangerous than others, as oil-based wall paints can be flammable.
Use the heat gun in one hand to soften the paint, and scrape it off with a metal spatula in the other hand. Don’t forget to wear thick work gloves for protection.
What is the Easiest Way to Remove Paint from a Wall?
The easiest way to remove paint from a wall is by using a paint stripper. The paint stripper will easily lift the paint from the wall. However, the new paint may be affected by the paint stripper. Therefore, before repainting the wall, the paint stripper must be thoroughly cleaned off.
Does Vinegar Take Paint off Walls?
Vinegar can help remove small paint spots and stains. However, it is not strong enough to completely remove wall paint.
What Gets Dried Paint Off Walls?
To remove dried wall paint, sanding or using lacquer thinner works. “Related post: Does lacquer thinner remove paint?”
