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Do you wish to restore an antique door to its previous appearance? You might instead be looking to add an organic touch to your home by removing layers of paint which have existed for decades or longer.

Not only is this a great option if your door happens to be rather valuable, but you will be amazed with the subsequent results.

If you hope to avoid any snags along the way, it is wise to prepare well before the stripping process actually begins. What are some steps to take and some factors to consider?

Glass and Hardware

While modern glass will not normally be damaged during the stripping process, the same cannot be said if your door happens to be more than 80 years old. Antique glass is often quite fragile, so it might be prudent to carefully remove any panes that may be present.

The same holds true if the hardware on the door happens to be original. These sections can easily be scratched or damaged.

It is much better to remove any hardware entirely as opposed to being forced to search for out-of-date accessories in the future.

Addressing Caulk and Silicone

Caulk and silicone are often used to seal cracks (such as within carved inlays or around glass panes). However, these can be unsightly once the stripping process has been completed. Most professionals suggest that such sealants be removed with a utility knife or similar stripping tool. This brings us to the final point.

Using the Appropriate Tools

There are specific tools which have been designed for stripping paint. Small wire brushes, portable heat guns, handheld scrapers, and electric sanders are examples.

It is also wise to possess a few screwdrivers, as the associated tips can be used to remove paint that might be present on the screw heads.

We should also mention that it is normally best to remove the door from its hinges and to lay it on a flat surface.

It will be much easier to access crevasses and more pressure can be applied if the door is parallel to the floor.

Anyone who would like to learn more about the stripping process itself or when it is best to seek the guidance of a professional should contact Premium Door Stripping. We are always here to help.

Have you recently restored a wooden door back to its original appearance? While it is always possible to employ the professional services provided by a firm which offers door stripping in Bristol and other areas, you might be slightly confused in regards to what options are available after the process has been completed. This is why we will take a look at three possibilities to keep in mind; each offering its own unique benefits.

Solid Paint

Some homeowners will choose to strip a door before adding a few layers of paint. One of the main advantages of paint is that it will protect the underlying surface from any future damage.

You can also choose from a kaleidoscope of unique colour options in order to match the existing decor of your home. However, always keep in mind that paint will hide the natural grain and appearance of the wood in question.

Semi-Transparent Stains

One of the benefits to be enjoyed when stripping internal doors is that you will be able to apply a subsequent layer of semi-transparent stain. As the name hints, this option can be used to add a unique hue to the door while still maintaining the natural appearance of the wood.

Semi-transparent stain can also help to accentuate the grain; a nice touch if you are looking to achieve a more organic appeal. There are countless hues to select and it is best to employ a tone which matches the ambience of the room in question.

Lacquer

Lacquer is another option. Most lacquers are offered in oil-based formulations although it may be possible to obtain an acrylic solution. Lacquers are inherently waterproof, so they will prevent the wood from being damaged if a great deal of moisture is present.

Furthermore, it is possible to choose from a number of different finishes (such as high-gloss and semi-gloss variants).

These treatments are all viable options to consider. Each will add its own flavour and personality to your home.

Of course, you can always speak with a representative from Premium Door Stripping for more guidance or pro tips.

Many individuals are keen to restore an antique piece of wooden furniture to its former glory. Not only will this allow the natural beauty to shine through, but such a process can dramatically increase the value of the item in question.

Still, such restoration may be rather tricky and damage can be caused if you do not take the appropriate steps. What are a handful of professional guidelines to follow and how can you ensure that the underlying wood is not unintentionally damaged?

Avoid Harsh Cleaning Products

It is first important to clean the area to be refinished. Many individuals tend to believe that harsh chemicals are the most appropriate solutions and yet, nothing could be further from the truth.

If anything, such solvents may damage the furniture. It is much better to employ a solution of warm water and dish soap. This will effectively remove any superficial dirt and grime.

Use the Correct Stripping Agent

Let’s assume for a moment that you are planning to remove paint from a Victorian-era door. While it is always possible to contact a professional and obtain the current door dipping prices, many DIY enthusiasts prefer a more hands-on experience.

Before attempting the process, you will need to take into account the type of stripping solution that is applied to the overlying paint. Always remember that some formulations might cause the wood to become damaged.

Others are designed for materials such as metal or porcelain. This is why you need to carefully read the label of the product before committing to a purchase.

Purchase the Right Tools

Stripping paint or varnish from wood will also require the appropriate handheld tools. While a flat scraper may be ideal for large surfaces, you might require smaller devices for crevasses and corners (such as inlays or chair rails).

Take a look at the intricacies of the piece in question in order to be prepared in advance.

Furniture restoration is as much of a science as it is an art form. This is why such a process should only be undertaken if you have taken the appropriate steps.

If you instead wish to leverage the experience of trained professionals, it is better to contact Premium Door Stripping and schedule a consultation.

If you are looking to add a sense of organic personality to your home, handmade wooden furniture will leave a lasting impact. Let’s take a look at six DIY ideas to consider.

A Bespoke Headboard

Why not construct a headboard for your bed out of oak or maple? To add an even more stunning touch, upholstery can be included in order to match your sheets and pillows.

An Elevated Storage Bed

If you find that storage space within your bedroom is at a premium, building an additional section to house items beneath your bed such as shoes and clothes will add an extra sense of organisation.

A Handmade Sofa for Two

Why purchase a generic sofa when you can instead build one from scratch? This is a perfect project for novices, as the plans are generally simple and straightforward. You can then add pillows and cushions to match your unique tastes.

A Wooden Clothes Hamper

Have you grown tired of seeing clothes strewn around the house? One excellent way to remedy this situation is to create a wooden clothes hamper. You can choose the exact size and for a bit of aromatic elegance, it could be wise to work with cedar.

A Rocking Chair

This project could be a bit more challenging and yet, it is a great way to learn about the intricacies of woodworking. The good news is that the end result will be entirely unique and stunning to behold.

A Lattice Cabinet

You can also transform a traditional cabinet into a work of art by replacing standard doors with lattice inlays. If the cabinet is used to store clothes, this will also provide a greater amount of circulation so that stagnant smells can be avoided.

Do you have an old piece of wooden furniture and would you like to see what exists beneath untold layers of paint? If so, the experts at Premium Door Stripping can be of assistance. Do not hesitate to contact us when convenient.

Doors have always provided us with a sense of privacy, safety and security. This is why they represent some of the most important portions of our homes.

However, a handful of these structures have actually become quite famous. Let’s take a look at five well-known doors from around the world.

No. 10 Downing Street

This iconic black door has existed in the same form since as far back as 1772. However, it was replaced with a matching blast-proof version after an IRA bombing that took place in 1991.

The Columbus Door

This ornate door was built to commemorate the life and achievements of Christopher Columbus. It depicts various events which were deemed historically important and the brilliant bronze surface of this door certainly deserves a closer look.

Westminster Abbey

This famous abbey is known as housing the graves of such famous icons as William Shakespeare. However, relatively little attention is given to the door located at its entrance. Recent studies have confirmed that this door was actually erected as far back as 1050 CE.

The Door of St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is already well known for its numerous works of art. However, the architecture associated with this massive church (the largest in Europe) is just as impressive.

A northern door is actually one of its best-kept secrets, as it can only be opened by the pope himself once every 25 years. It is said that passing through this entrance represents the symbolic act of the transition from this life to the next.

The Chicago Palmer House Hotel

This hotel was originally erected in 1871 although it unfortunately burned down a mere 13 days after its opening. The structure was rebuilt in an even more opulent manner and one of the most stunning examples of the Art Deco style can be seen in two very large bronze doors. Located on Monroe Street, each is adorned with a large peacock.

We should always mention that restoring an old door to its former glory is an excellent way to celebrate the past. Premium Door Stripping is here to help.

Most of us take doors for granted. They are simply a means to enter and leave a premises. However, these very same items are associated with a rich and sometimes surprising history.

How long have doors existed? How has this technology evolved over the millennia? What important milestones have occurred along the way?

If you have ever wanted to know more about these absolutely essential objects, the information found below will come in handy.

Ancient Origins

Believe it or not, the history of the door can be traced as far back as 3,000 BCE. Archaeologists found the first traces of wooden doors in Europe during this time and naturally, their main intention was to provide a sense of security to property owners.

The Chinese likewise began adopting stone doors during the second millennium BCE. It seems that this technology was purely functional during these times.

However, more ornate doors likely graced the homes of the wealthy and those in positions of authority.

A prime example of this can be seen in an olive door overlaid in gold that was utilised within the temple of Solomon in Jerusalem (587 BCE).

Technology Enters into the Picture

As civilisations continued to develop, functionality began to be replaced with a sense of convenience.

For example, it is thought that the Greeks were the first society to invent the foot-activated door in the first century AD.

Further evidence of this advancement can be seen in a similar Chinese design that has been dated to the fifth century.

Having said this, such innovations were effectively halted during medieval times and thanks in no small part to the plague which ravished Europe.

It would not be until the 19th century that the modern door as we have come to know it finally entered into existence.

The Modern Door

While the appearance of doors became more ornate during the 19th and 20th centuries, the use of other materials signified that they became more affordable.

An American chemist invented the first polymer door in 1909 and fibreglass models entered into existence during 1932.

These materials were used to mimic the appearance of wood and their presence continues into modern times.

Do you have an old door that requires a professional restoration? Why not let its history shine through with the help of Premium Door Stripping? Please give us a call to learn more.

Stripping paint or varnish from a door or similar piece of furniture involves a number of steps. One of the most overlooked concerns involves the importance of what is known as a neutraliser.

While it is always important to choose the best varnish remover for the requirements at hand, the subsequent presence of a neutralising agent will help to ensure that the item in question is successfully restored to its former glory. Let’s take a closer look.

What is a Neutralising Agent?

Many paint and varnish strippers employ harsh chemical agents in order to remove stubborn layers.

The main issue is that these very same chemicals can actually begin to damage the wood if they are allowed to remain on the surface for extended periods of time.

This is even more relevant when referring to porous woods, as they can easily soak up such substances.

A neutraliser is essentially a chemical compound that is used to halt the action of any active ingredients found within the paint or varnish stripper. As you might have imagined, the type of neutralising agent will vary.

This depends upon the stripper that you are using. One example of a household neutraliser is acetic acid (common white vinegar).

This is often employed due to its acid content, as it can counteract the caustic nature of some paint strippers.

Why Choose a Commercial Neutraliser?

Many at-home paint stripping tasks will involve the use of chemicals such as turpentine or caustic soda. However, the most effective strippers on the market today are normally comprised of a number of chemicals (such as methylene chloride or a compound known as NMP).

It they are allowed to remain on bare wood, damage will inevitably occur. This is why commercial neutralisers have been specifically formulated to counteract their effects. Do-it-yourself solutions will simply not make the cut.

Some paint stripping projects are naturally more challenging than others; especially if you are dealing with very old or ornate items.

This is why it is prudent to contact our team and procure a premium door stripping service. You can, therefore, remain confident that stunning results are only moments away.

Paint stripping is just as much of an art form as it is a science. This technique can be used to restore the wooden surfaces of doors and other items to their former glory and it is often employed by those who wish the original designs to shine through. In order to tackle any upcoming project efficiently, it wise to address some frequently asked questions.

Why is Caustic Soda Sometimes Used?

Caustic soda is a chemical that is often employed to unblock drains. However, caustic soda and paint stripping enjoy a unique relationship. This substance will cause paint to detach from the underlying surface; providing a more aggressive means to deal with stubborn tasks.

Can Mechanical Devices be Used?

Rotary and belt sanders will help to expedite the stripping process. Different grits of sandpaper can likewise be employed to address different types of paint.

These are very popular when dealing with smooth surfaces although mechanical sanders are unable to address small grooves and ornate designs.

Will I Need to Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) When Stripping Paint?

The answer will depend upon the task at hand. You should always wear a respirator and goggles when sanding paint, as the airborne particulate matter can cause health problems.

Goggles and ear protection are also recommended. If you happen to be using chemical agents, be sure to perform the task within a well-ventilated environment; preferably outdoors.

How Can I Avoid Damaging the Underlying Wood?

Sanding and scraping the surfaces by hand is the best way to ensure that you do not mar their appearance. Using a high-grit sandpaper can likewise cut down on any potential scratches or gouges.

However, there are also times when it is better to utilise commercial chemical solutions. These help to loosen and remove paint while leaving the original surface untouched.

Some stripping projects are obviously more challenging than others. If you are uncertain where to begin or should you be dealing with an extremely old item, it is always wise to contact Premium Door Stripping for further advice and professional guidance.