What is a wood stripper?

A wood stripper is a chemical product used to remove layers of paint, varnish or stain from wood. It is often used to remove an existing finish, either to prepare the wood for a new finish or to restore the natural look of the wood surface.

There are different types of strippers for different types of wood and finishes. Some are designed for painted wood, while others are specifically designed for varnished or waxed wood. It is important to choose the right stripper for your project, depending on the wood species and the finish to be removed.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and wear gloves and a protective mask when using a stripper, as these products can be harmful to the skin and respiratory tract.

Why use a wood paint stripper?

There are several reasons to use a wood paint stripper:

Remove an existing finish: if you want to remove paint, varnish or stain from wood, a stripper removes these layers effectively.
Prepare the wood for a new finish: once the existing finish has been removed, the wood is ready for a new coat of paint or varnish.
Restore the natural look of the wood: you can use a stripper to remove paint, varnish or stain, then sand the wood to bring back its natural appearance.

How to use a wood varnish stripper?

Follow these steps to apply a wood varnish stripper safely and effectively:

Prepare the surface: remove any fittings or items that could be damaged by the stripper, such as cushions or seat pads. Cover floors and adjacent surfaces with a drop sheet to protect them from splashes.
Protect yourself: wear protective gloves and safety glasses to avoid contact with the stripper. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
Apply the stripper: follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply the stripper to the wood surface. It is usually applied with a brush or roller, making sure the surface is well covered.
Let the stripper work: leave it for the time stated in the manufacturer's instructions. This can range from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the coating to be removed and the strength of the product.
Remove the stripper: use a spatula or scraper to remove the stripper and the loosened paint or varnish. Do not use sandpaper or wire brushes at this stage, as they could damage the wood. Rinse the surface thoroughly with water and a soft cloth to remove any residue.
Prepare the surface for painting or varnishing: once the wood is clean and dry, sand it lightly with fine sandpaper to smooth out imperfections. Wipe it with a damp cloth to remove sanding dust before applying the new coat of paint or varnish.

How to choose the right wood stripper?

Consider the following when choosing a wood stripper:

Type of coating to remove: some strippers are designed for paint, others for varnish. Make sure you choose a stripper that suits the coating you want to remove.
Wood type: some strippers are better suited to certain woods. For example, water-based strippers may be gentler on softwoods such as pine, while solvent-based strippers may be more effective on hardwoods such as oak.
Coating thickness: some strippers are stronger than others and can remove thicker layers of paint or varnish. For a particularly thick coating, you may need a stronger product.
Application method: some strippers are liquids applied with a brush or roller, while others are pastes applied with a knife or spatula. Choose the form that suits you best.
Working time: some strippers act faster than others. If you need to remove a coat of paint or varnish quickly, choose a fast-acting product.

Preparation & cleaning - Page 11