Thread: stripping old doors

Just some thoughts on heat gun v sanding v stripper...

Remember that given the age of the doors (they sound lovely btw) you will be working with lead-based paint at least in the lower coats. Lead is a cumulative neurotoxin and there are *very* good reasons why it's not used these days in former applications such as lining the welds of food cans, paint, petrol etc. I am extra paranoid about it in my work area these days because I am pregnant.

A heat gun will create lead-based fumes - you *are* using a proper chemical respirator while doing this aren't you??

Sanding creates lead-based dust that will spray around your entire work area - and requires just as much breathing protection!!

Stripper might be a disgusting chemical, but at least causes the paint to blister and peel off in a paste that can be easily confined to one area and then disposed of with all the lead in it. I usually scrape off onto newspaper which I can then roll up with the nasties on the inside. As long as the work area is well ventilated, you can get away without breathing protection.

I hate to even question Neil's advice, but I would never even OPEN a tin of paint stripper without wearing gloves and eye protection. I aint no clutz, but I accidentally flicked turps in my eye once and wouldn't like to do the same with stripper...

I've never used a water wash-off stripper because I guess I don't believe in putting water onto raw timber. I just clean up with metho and steel wool or a rag.

Stripper is also essential for detailed work, such as the stippled background of carved panels on an old wardrobe. I spent quite a few relaxing evenings picking softened paint out of each little hole in the stipplings with the tip of my Swiss Army Knife. Zen and the Art of Furniture Restoration anyone??

Steph