Category: BLOG

The quickest way to give your home a make over and enhance its aesthetics is to apply a coat of paint. But you cannot simply slap another layer of paint onto an existing one. The more layers you apply, the thicker and messier it will look.

If you want to give your painted home a much better finish, you’ll have to strip off the old layers of paint. Wooden surfaces with old layers of gloss paint will require stripping off the old layers of paint so that the doors can close properly and the true lines of mouldings do not get buried underneath the layers of paint.

Stripping Off Paint

Stripping off layers of old paint takes ages if you attempt to do it yourself. It is fine if the wall is in good condition but if the wall is damp for example, you’ll have to eliminate that problem first. There are also several ways of stripping paint.

Chemical strippers work perfectly, but there are those which don’t work quite as well and if you use general purpose strippers, they may not be very effective. Those designed to remove specific products such as water-based or solvent based paints tend to be the most effective.

Methods of stripping Paint

There isn’t a perfect method for stripping paint, it literally depends on the object to be stripped, the type of paint and how much you are willing to spend. Chemical strippers are effective, and depending on the type of chemical used, they work by weakening the adhesion of the paint or breaking down the paint.

Heat guns are inexpensive and they work very well with glossy paints. The high temperature they produce enables the paint to melt off the surface. Hand scrapers are suitable for small paint removal jobs and they are useful for removing paint from surfaces where the paint is already peeling or flaking away.

Other Methods

Sanding works for all types of wood, but they are not suitable for metal or masonry. They can also be used to remove left-over paint after using a heat gun.

Mechanical sanding requires the use of a power tool. They are more efficient than hand sanding but they can generate a lot of dust, so they are not suitable for removing lead paint.

Professional paint strippers might use an infrared heater mounted on a track. It is similar to a heat gun, but it works at lower temperatures, which is why it is regarded as the most gentle method of paint stripping.

Using Professionals

But how will you figure out all these details on your own? You need a highly professional home paint stripping service like Premium Door Stripping to help you successfully navigate through the whole process.

We provide a range of services including furniture and door stripping within Berkshire, UK. Regardless of the type of paint you need to strip, our team is always available to do an excellent job.

All paints are made using similar ingredients. For instance, the additives, solvents, resins, and pigments are usually quite similar in most paints. However, paints made for interior surfaces usually have a few differences compared to paints made for exterior surfaces.

The Major Difference

One difference between interior and exterior paints is that exterior paints often contain more solvent. However, the major difference is found in the resins and additives. To understand why this is necessary, it is important to have a basic understanding of paint chemistry.

Why this Matters

Exterior paint needs to withstand the corrosive UV rays of the sun and other weather elements. This includes changing temperatures and wind action. To withstand the elements exterior paint usually has flexible resins that help it to keep looking good even when the surface below is expanding due to temperature changes. The paint on the exterior will also contain additives that prevent fading and stop mildew from forming.

The paint in the interior is not exposed to the elements too much. As a result, it is made of rigid resins. These rigid resins ensure that interior paint is less prone to damage from scuffing. Besides that, the rigidity makes it easier to clean surfaces with interior paint.

Using Exterior Paint Indoors

Some people mistakenly believe that since interior paint is able to withstand more damage, it will perform well indoors too. However, this is not the case, exterior paint is more prone to scuffing, and it scratches with ease. Besides that, it is designed with more VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).

This continues even after it is done curing. This makes it a health hazard if used indoors. The mildewcides used in exterior paint can also have an unpleasant odour when used indoors. In some cases, they trigger allergies in kids and the elderlies.

It is also worth noting that you need to use the right safety equipment even when dealing with interior paints. Besides that, you must ensure the room is well ventilated when applying the paint.

The indoor surface, as well as the outdoor surface, should be cleaned of dust removed before a paint job. For indoor surfaces, you can always add a glossy finish to ensure that the paint resists scrubbing more.

Always Use the Right Paint

No matter how much of a strong wall you might have, ensure that you use the right paint for each job. Besides that, ensure that you mix the paint as recommended, no matter what you have done in the past.

The formulations take months or years of research and testing to create in order to ensure they last as long as possible. Not following the recommendations will only cause you more grief down the road since you will have to redo the job.

Summary

There are paints rated for both indoor and outdoor use. These paints are usually quite versatile, but you have to make some trade-offs. If you do not want to keep buying different cans of paints for different surfaces, you can opt for these paints.

Stripping a door of old paint has been common practice since somewhere in the early 1980s. The idea with door stripping is to remove the built-up players of paint to expose the good-quality timber underneath so that it can be repaired, varnished or even repainted.

There is the added bonus of getting rid of old, thick coats of paint that would chip easily. Fortunately, this method of getting rid of old paint boasts a high rate of success while remaining cheap. Still, there are some things which need to be kept in mind.

Many doors have been in constant use since the ’80s and have been painted and repainted many times. Over the years, paint composition has varied quite dramatically and now they are typically based on water and cellulose where they were not before.

Modern water-based paints can be difficult to remove, mostly due to the fact that the chemical solution used is heavily diluted in water. Cellulose can be similarly challenging since it will actually sink a few millimetres into the wood and stripping it away can end up lifting the grain.

The good news is that the door will be okay even if this does happen. It is just a matter of preparing enough in advance.

When it comes to colour-based stains they can be almost impossible to remove. This is particularly true in the case of mahogany since like cellulose-based paint, the stain will have sunk into the wood. Once stripping this kind of finish has begun it cannot be stopped.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to tell what exactly is required since it can impossible to discern how many coats of paint and what other treatments have been applied to a door.

This often occurs when someone moves into a new property. When this is the case, there is not much that can be done except to take a chance and start with the less extreme methods.

If it happens to be made from oak or mahogany, there is a different door stripping method that has to be performed by hand. Unfortunately, because of the time and chemicals involved, it is often more expensive.

The good news is that the extra cost results in an even better finish that maintains these woods’ high value.

Then, very little extra preparation is required. The darker woods will also usually become lighter, allowing them to fit more easily with modern decorating styles.

Restoring antique furniture is both an art form an a science. Much like any other skilled trade, there are certain techniques to embrace and others which should be avoided altogether.

Let’s take a look at some common precautions when undertaking such a task as well as why it might be better to delegate more challenging work to the hands of a professional.

Personal Safety Issues

Antique restorations often involve in-depth and potentially hazardous tasks such as mechanical sanding and furniture stripping. While quite effective if performed correctly, these very same requirements can sometimes lead to the release of irritating substances into the air such as fine wood particles and even lead paint. This is why wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment is always important.

Removing Excessive Amounts of the Surface

Stripping paint and varnish from wood will often require the use of chemicals in addition to common methods such as hand sanding. However, users need to be careful when performing such tasks.

If too much of the surface is accidentally removed, it could detract from the overall appearance of the furniture. This is even more important when referring to delicate portions such as hand-carved wooden inlays.

Improperly Cleaning the Surface

The surface of the furniture will need to be thoroughly cleaned after any sanding or stripping has been completed. The presence of dirt, moisture or oils will prevent any future finishes from adhering properly.

It is also wise to follow the instructions in regards to the specific type of furniture, as certain woods and surfaces may require special attention.

Selecting the Wrong Materials During Repairs

Many individuals who restore furniture are looking to return the piece to its original condition and appearance. This is why purists would argue that historically accurate materials must always be used.

For example, placing a cheap piece of modern velvet over a section of upholstery that dates from the 19th century could negatively impact the overall appearance of the furniture. This is why it is a good idea to perform a bit of research to appreciate the options at your disposal.

While restoring furniture is a very rewarding task, it can also be quite challenging for those who are unprepared. This is why more complex projects are often expedited with the help of the technicians at Premium Door Stripping. We will be happy to take on even the most daunting demands.

Stripped screw holes can be quite common in doors and door frames. This is usually the result of an excess amount of movement (such as when opening and closing a door on a frequent basis).

Eventually, the wood fibres will either wear away or become damaged to the point where they are no longer able to serve as anchors for the screw. Common symptoms include loose mounting brackets and a door that fails to close flush with the frame. The good news is that this situation can be fixed relatively quickly. Let’s take a closer look at one do-it-yourself method.

Filling the Screw Hole

This is the most aesthetically pleasing method, as a new hole will not need to be drilled. First, remove the screw and any shavings that might be present within the initial bore hole.

Take a piece of scrap wood (preferably the same type that is already present). Shave a piece that is roughly equivalent to the depth and diameter of the hole. Make certain that it fits snugly before removing the shunt.

Then, coat the strip of wood with high-quality wood glue. Insert the shaft into the bore hole and allow it to dry. As the wood and glue cure, the shaft will expand slightly. This ensures a tight fit. Once the glue has completely dried (generally within 24 hours), sand off any bits that remain raised above the surface.

Inserting a New Screw

A small pilot hole will then need to be drilled into the centre of the wood-filled shaft. This pilot hole will be used to guide the new screw. Assuming that the hardware is properly in place, drill the screw into the pilot hole. Check that the screw is firmly tightened before permanently securing it in place.

When Should a Professional be Called?

In the event that numerous stripped holes need to be addressed, it could be a wise idea to call a professional. This firm will be able to provide expert advice and if necessary, an entire section of the door can be replaced with a wood that will match perfectly with the original.

If you would like additional advice on similar issues or should you require a service to remove layers of old paint from furniture or trim, be sure to contact a representative from Premium Door Stripping. We are always pleased to help.

Removing excess paint from the surface of furniture is one of the best ways to restore these pieces to their natural condition. There are a number of paints which Premium Door Stripping can address and in order to appreciate the choices at your disposal, it is wise to look at each variant in greater detail.

Acrylic

Acrylic (or water-based) paint is one of the most common types of paint seen on furniture. This configuration is known for its fast drying time as well as the nearly limitless number of available colours.

Enamel

Enamel paints are oil-based in nature and they are particularly known for their ability to protect furniture surfaces thanks to a durable nature. Enamels can also be used to cover up unsightly features such as stains and knot holes. As these are oil-based formulations, the stripping process is different when compared to dealing with acrylic paints.

Matte

This type of paint is actually more associated with surface sheen than its chemical composition. Matte paint exhibits a flat appearance as opposed to a glossy shine.

This could present an issue, as flat paints tend to absorb stains and they normally cannot be washed (the paint itself might be removed during the process). So, it is no surprise that matte surfaces will often need to be stripped.

Gloss

Semi-gloss and high-gloss finishes are often used when individuals wish to provide their furniture with a more visible aesthetic appeal. Still, glossy paints can become dull or discoloured over time.

This is particularly the case if the furniture happens to be located outdoors. Our stripping specialists are just as capable of removing gloss paints from the surfaces of your furniture.

Emulsion

This type of paint is associated with a specific colour pigment bound with a water-soluble resin. It is used on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. More than one coat is normally applied in order to avoid the presence of any “bleeds” caused by underlying colours or stains. We are capable of removing emulsion-based paints from furniture as well.

Regardless of the type of paint that you need to remove, there is no doubt that our team is here to help. Stripping paint from furniture will result in a natural appearance that might not otherwise be possible. Please do not hesitate to speak with one of our representatives to learn more.

There are many items which may need to be restored in order to display their natural beauty. Some common examples are windows, doors and traditional furniture.

This will often involve removing any excess layers of paint which may be present. However, the concept of “one size fits all” is certainly not appropriate here. Different materials will require entirely different techniques.

Did you know that wood and metal need to be addressed in entirely unique manners if you hope to achieve the desired results? Let us take a look at some of the main differences when stripping wood and metal.

The Tools Used

The underlying material will often determine the type of tool that is used. For example, many stripping projects intended to address wood will involve tools such as hand-operated scrapers and belt sanders. These are both used to remove excess layers of paint without damaging the underlying surfaces.

However, damage is not always a major concern when dealing with metallic objects (such as exterior doors or upright radiators within a home). In these cases, rotary sanding machines and similar electrical devices can be employed to effectively remove any paint the may be present.

Having said this, it is important to note that the risk of inhaling any lead paint is generally increased when dealing with powered sanding machines.

Chemical Products?

One of the challenges associated with wood stripping is that it can be difficult to remove any paint while ensuring that the underlying surface remains intact.

This is why wood stripping will often involve the use of chemical substances. These are applied on the surface and allowed to interact with the paint; loosening it so that the removal process is much easier.

When using stripping agents are addressing metal surfaces, care must be taken in order to ensure that the right formulation is obtained. Some caustic substances will react with the underlying metal; potentially resulting in the release of irritating gases. This is not normally the case when referring to wooden objects.

Each approach will require targeted techniques if you hope to enjoy beautiful results. This is often why the experts at Premium Door Stripping should be contacted.

We are capable of providing bespoke services in order to ensure that even the most challenging tasks can be completed in a timely fashion. Give us a call if you would like to learn more about our services.

Stripping paint off of wood can represent an excellent way to restore its initial beauty and to enhance the natural grain. This will often be used to address common portions of a home such as windows and doors.

While modern paint stripping techniques will provide quality results within a relatively short period of time, they can also be associated with the use of harsh and caustic chemicals.

This is why it is important to understand how any wood should be properly cleaned after the stripping process is completed. What do the experts have to say?

The Process of Neutralisation

The substances contained within paint strippers can be irritating to the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. This is why they need to be effectively neutralised. The good news is that the majority of stripping products will contain detailed recommendations and advice in regards to how any excess can be removed.

These instructions will tend to differ from provider to provider. Always read them carefully, as you might otherwise unknowingly damage the wood that has just been restored to its former glory.

Do-it-Yourself Methods

One of the most common ways to clean down wood after it has been stripped is to employ a combination of vinegar and water. Mix these two liquids together in equal proportions.

Immerse a soft rag within this solution and gently wipe any wood that has been subject to the stripping agent. The acidic properties of vinegar will counteract the caustic elements found within most paint removers.

In the event that the stripper contains solvents, it is better to use a rag soaked in mineral spirits to remove any remaining residue.

Subsequent Cleanup

Once you are satisfied that the original stripping residue has been removed, use another rag with clean water to wipe the wood down once again. Allow the wood to naturally dry and smell the surface.

If you still detect a slight odour of stripper, repeat the processes mentioned above. It is also wise to contact a professional in the event that you fear the wood may become damaged.

It is quite easy to clean wood that has been stripped of its paint, so feel free to follow the advice mentioned in this article.

If you need to address more challenging products or should you have additional questions, always feel free to contact Premium Door Stripping. One of our expert representatives will be more than happy to help.

The organic beauty of wooden furniture cannot be denied. Some pieces have existed for hundreds of years and if cared for properly, they will never lose their aesthetic lustre.

Still, this very same furniture can suffer from wear and tear; leading to damage and similar issues. There are also times when pristine wood has been masked by layers of paint that were applied in the past.

This is when the talents of a professional wooden furniture restoration specialist can be leveraged. What are some of the tasks which this expert performs on a daily basis?

Preparatory Steps

Preparation is always important in order to ensure future success. Some common steps involve sanding down any rough edges, removing any hardware that needs to be replaced and thoroughly cleaning the piece of furniture in question. This is arguably the most critical stage, as all subsequent results will depend upon such efforts.

Exposing the Surface of the Wood

There are many times when a restoration professional will be required to expose the original underlying wood. This can be quite challenging, as years of paint, lacquer or stains may be present.

This is why these specialists are also experts at stripping techniques. They will use a variety of tools to uncover the original surface without causing any damage to the natural wood.

Fashioning/Replicating Replacement Parts

It could be necessary to obtain and/or clean furniture accessories. These can include bolts, corner protectors and any associated upholstery. There are instances when such efforts can be completed by utilising in-house techniques although it is not uncommon to source these parts from a third party (this is often the case when dealing with speciality antique items).

Evaluating and Reevaluating

The ultimate goal is to restore a piece of furniture to its original appearance. This is why restoration technicians are considered to be true artisans within their craft.

A delicate eye for detail is required and there is simply no substitute for patience. After all, even the smallest of deviations will have a massive impact upon the final result.

It can be very difficult to properly restore wooden furniture. This is why the team at Premium door Stripping will often be called when more challenging tasks need to be tackled.

If you are looking for nothing less than the best, please give us a call to learn more about our services.

There are many times when you might wish to restore a door to its former glory. This is often the case when referring to antiques or if you happen to own a door that has been crafted from fine woods such as oak or mahogany.

Paint stripping is a common technique and if performed properly, you will be amazed at the subsequent results. Still, the efficacy of such a task requires that you use the correct paint removal tools.

Let us take a look at some of the accessories that are normally involved as well as their unique purposes.

Heating Elements

Many individuals will be surprised to learn that heat can represent a very effective way to remove paint from a door. The associated infrared rays will help to loosen the chemical bonds within the paint; enabling it to be removed with relative ease.

This is often the preferred option if there are numerous layers present. Many hand-held systems are specifically designed for such a purpose.

Mechanical Scrapers

Technicians will likewise employ metallic scrapers. These come in all shapes and sizes, so they are able to address issues such as crevasses and detailed finish work.

One common instrument is known as a “five-in-one”, as it offers a number of different surfaces and edges within a single tool. Mechanical scrapers will frequently be used for rough removals before more detailed procedures are undertaken.

Electrical Sanders

Hand-held sanders can also come in handy, as they are able to smooth down any rough surfaces while removing excess paint that might be too resistant to normal scraping techniques.

Circular and belt-driven sanders are two common configurations and the sandpaper is available in numerous grits (depending upon the task at hand).

The Proper Respiration Equipment

This lesser-known concern should never be glossed over. It is always important to wear the appropriate breathing apparatus. Older doors and surfaces may contain lead paint.

This particulate matter can be dangerous if inhaled. Common 3M masks and more robust respirators can provide you with an ample amount of protection.

Removing paint from doors can sometimes be quite challenging. If you are concerned about damaging the underlying surface or if you hope to employ professionals to complete this task within a timely fashion, be sure to contact Premium Door Stripping. A customer service representative will always be standing by.