Stripping old exterior paint is an essential part of properly preparing surfaces for new paint. Over time, multiple layers of paint can cause surfaces to look dull, cracked, and uneven. Removing the old paint allows for a smooth, even finish when new paint is applied. We outline six of the most effective methods for stripping exterior paint below.

Use a Heat Gun

One of the quickest ways to strip exterior paint is with a heat gun. Heat guns use forced hot air to soften and blister paint layers.

Benefits

• Works on many surfaces including wood, metal, brick, and stone
• Quickly softens multiple layers of paint
• Allows paint to be easily scraped away

Steps

1. Plug in and preheat the heat gun. Most heat guns have variable temperature settings, select medium to high heat.
2. Holding the heat gun 6-8 inches from the surface, apply heat by moving the gun slowly and evenly across the area. Avoid holding it in one spot too long.
3. Watch paint bubble and blister, then use a paint scraper to remove. Wear gloves and safety goggles.
4. For stubborn areas, reapply heat and continue scraping. Use a wire brush to remove any residue.
5. When paint is fully removed, sand the surface smooth in preparation for new paint.

Tips

• Keep air moving over the surface to avoid scorching or burning the wood.
• Work in small sections for best control and to prevent overheating.
• On intricate surfaces, use a smaller variable temperature heat gun for detailed work.

A heat gun provides fast, effective paint removal for large exterior areas. Just take care not to scorch surfaces in the process.

Use a Chemical Paint Stripper

Applying a chemical paint stripper is another fast, convenient option for stripping exterior surfaces. Chemical strippers work by dissolving the layers of old paint so they can be easily scraped or rinsed away.

Benefits

• Quickly penetrates and dissolves multiple layers of paint
• Can be used on many surfaces including wood, metal, concrete, and fiberglass
• Allows paint to be easily scraped or rinsed off

Steps

1. Prepare the surface by lightly sanding and cleaning dirt or dust.
2. Apply a thick, even coat of paint stripper using a brush or roller. Follow product directions for application.
3. Let the stripper sit for the recommended time to allow paint to fully dissolve. This is usually 20-30 minutes.
4. Use a scraper to remove the liquefied paint residue. Then rinse thoroughly with water.
5. Check for any remaining paint and reapply stripper as needed. Rinse again.
6. Once paint is completely removed, allow surface to fully dry before applying new paint.

Tips

• Wear gloves, eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated area. Strippers contain harsh chemicals.
• Do not let stripper dry on surface. Reapply to keep wet.
• Use thick paste strippers for vertical surfaces to avoid drips and runs.

Chemical strippers offer an easy, effective method for paint removal. Just take proper safety precautions when using caustic stripping agents.

Sand Down Surfaces

For smaller surfaces, manually sanding down exterior paint can be a good stripping option. While labor-intensive, sanding gives you precision and control.

Benefits

• Most DIY-friendly stripping method
• Allows you to gradually remove paint at your own pace
• Useful for smaller surfaces and detailing work

Steps

1. Lightly wet surface with water to prevent dust. Begin hand sanding with 80-100 grit sandpaper.
2. Gradually progress to finer 120, 150, then 220 grit sandpaper as you get closer to the substrate.
3. For tight spots use detail sanding blocks or sanding sponges. On flat areas, use a random orbital sander.
4. Frequently wipe away paint dust with a damp cloth to monitor progress. Sand until bare surface is exposed.
5. Clean sanded surface thoroughly before painting to remove all dust and debris.

Tips

• Use the proper safety gear – goggles, mask, gloves to protect from dust.
• Apply light pressure and be patient, avoid gouging or scratching the underlying surface.
• Work your way up through finer grits for a smooth finish for new paint.

Sanding by hand takes more time and elbow grease but provides the most control and customization for removing exterior paint.

Rent a Power Washer

For stripping paint from exterior surfaces like siding, brick, and fences, a power washer is the ideal tool. The high-powered water pressure quickly blasts away peeling, cracked paint.

Benefits

• Quickly removes paint from aluminum, vinyl, brick, concrete, wood, and stucco siding
• Covers more surface area than manual stripping methods
• Useful for stripping surfaces two-stories and higher safely

Steps

1. Use garden hose to loosen and wet surface and remove any loose paint chips first.
2. Select a power washer with PSI of 2000-3000 range for paint removal tasks. Gas powered is best.
3. Adjust nozzle to 15-25 degree spray at pressure of 1000-1500 PSI. Keep 12 inches back from surface.
4. Holding spray head steady, work methodically across the area, washing away paint.
5. For stubborn areas, use surfactant or degreaser and rewash. Rinse thoroughly.
6. Let surface dry fully for 1-2 days before applying primer and new paint.

Tips

• Time it right – Avoid stripping paint in direct sunlight or if rain is expected.
• Wear protective gear – goggles, mask, coveralls, gloves, and ear protection.
• Point sprayer away from windows, plants, self to avoid damage.

Power washing transforms paint stripping into a fast, relatively easy job. The key is using the proper pressure and technique.

Use a Paint Shaver Tool

Paint shavers are a handy power tool designed specifically for removing exterior paint. The rotating multi-blade head strips paint as you move the shaver across a surface.

Benefits

• Quickly strips paint from wood, shakes, shingles, concrete, and metal
• Multi-blade head removes multiple layers in a single pass
• Creates a smooth surface ready for new paint or stain

Steps

1. Prepare surface by sweeping clean and removing any loose paint chips.
2. Adjust blade depth on the shaver to just above surface level.
3. Plug in and move the paint shaver across the area steadily in smooth, overlapping passes.
4. Apply light pressure, allowing the spinning blades to do the work.
5. Periodically wipe blades clean of paint buildup using the attached scraper.
6. Continue until paint is removed and surface is uniform for applying new coatings.

Tips

• For best control, use two hands on larger models.
• Allow blades time to stop spinning before cleaning or changing blade depth.
• Wear proper safety gear – goggles, gloves, mask, and ear protection.

Paint shavers strip away old paint faster than sanding and is great for exterior siding and trims. Just be cautious of potential flying debris.

Hire a Professional

For specialty paints or large exterior stripping projects, it may be best to hire a professional painting contractor. They have commercial equipment, access to scaffolding, and job experience to remove paint quickly and safely.

Benefits

• Access to commercial-grade stripping tools like soda blasters
• Professionals are fully insured
• Ability to strip complex and tall exterior surfaces safely
• Skilled at containment and disposal of lead-based paint

What They Can Strip

• Home siding – wood, vinyl, aluminum, cedar shake
• Decks, porches, railings
• Windows, doors, gutters, downspouts
• Chimneys, overhangs, trim
• Concrete, stucco, brick

Tips for Hiring

• Get 3+ estimates to compare
• Verify licensing, insurance, bonding
• Check reviews and referrals
• Understand lead paint risks

While DIY stripping is possible for many, hiring professionals to strip exterior paint is often the smartest option to get the job done quickly, safely and completely.

Frequently Asked Questions about Stripping Exterior Paint

Stripping paint from the exterior of a home can seem like an intimidating task. Here we answer some of the most common questions about the best practices for taking on an exterior paint stripping project.

What is the easiest way to strip paint from exterior wood siding?

For removing paint from wood siding, using a chemical paint stripper often provides the quickest, easiest results. Apply a thick coating of stripper and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to penetrate the layers of paint. The paint can then be easily scraped off with a putty knife. Power washing with 2000-3000 PSI pressure also works well to quickly strip exterior wood.

What should I look for when choosing a paint stripper?

Select a paint stripper specifically formulated for exterior use. Look for methylene chloride-free strippers for better safety. Pick a thick paste or gel formula so it adheres well on vertical siding. Ensure it is effective at dissolving multiple layers of oil and latex paint. Test in an inconspicuous spot first.

What is the fastest way to remove paint from brick and concrete?

To strip paint from masonry like brick, concrete, and stucco, a power washer is by far the fastest method. Use a power washer in the 3000 PSI range with a 25 degree nozzle. Keep 12-18 inches away from the surface and work methodically to blast away the layers of paint. Surfactants help loosen paint – apply first and let sit for 10 minutes before power washing.

How long does it take to strip paint from the exterior of a house?

The time it takes to strip the paint off a house depends on several factors – the size of the home, type of siding, layers of paint, and stripping method used. In general, allow at least 2 to 5 days for power washing, using chemical strippers, or DIY sanding for a typical single family home. Hiring painters to soda or media blast could take 1 to 3 days.

Should I repaint right away after stripping exterior paint?

It’s important to allow time for the wood or masonry to fully dry out after stripping off exterior paint. Depending on weather and humidity, drying can take 24 to 48 hours before priming and painting. If any surface moisture remains it can cause the new paint to fail prematurely. Be patient for best results.

Proper planning, having the right tools, safety precautions, and help when needed will allow your exterior paint stripping project to be successful.

Conclusion

Stripping exterior paint by yourself or hiring a professional painter to do it are both good options depending on the size of the job. Making use of heat guns, chemical strippers, power washers, sand paper, and paint shaver tools are all effective methods for removing old exterior paint. Doing adequate surface prep by fully stripping away peeling, flaking paint leads to the best end results when it’s time to apply a fresh new coating of protective exterior paint. With the right approach and techniques, you can tackle the project of stripping exterior paint successfully.

6 Ways to Boost Your Career with Education

Updating your skills, knowledge, and abilities through education can be the key to reaching your full career potential and advancing to the next level professionally. Whether you’re just out of high school, a seasoned worker, or anywhere in between, there are several impactful ways you can capitalize on the power of education to supercharge your work life. Let’s explore six of the top techniques and strategies you can use to boost your career through continuing your learning.

Earn a Degree or Certificate

There’s no substitute for the in-depth knowledge and expertise you gain from working through a rigorous degree or certificate program. Completing an accredited college degree shows employers you have specialized talents, relevant skills, and impressive dedication.

Benefits

• Earning a degree sets you apart from other applicants for jobs and promotions.
• It keeps your skills current in a changing world and adds to your credibility in the field.
• You build a valuable professional network. Many programs facilitate internships.
• It expands your knowledge and gives you confidence to take on greater challenges.

Tips

• Research programs that offer the most career-advancing curriculum in your field.
• Consider certificate programs through community colleges or online institutions for affordable, targeted learning.
• Leverage tuition reimbursement benefits from your employer if available.
• Weigh completing an advanced degree like a Master’s to position yourself as an expert.

Gaining new degrees and certificates should be an ongoing goal throughout your career journey to keep reaching new heights.

Take Skill-Building Courses

Look for courses both within your company and externally that allow you to hone your talents and add new in-demand abilities. This targeted learning prepares you for the next step up.

Benefits

• Develop exactly the skills your profession requires whether technical, leadership, creativity, or communication based.
• Shorter time commitment than degree programs.
• Build a portfolio or earn certifications that demonstrate new capabilities to show employers.

Tips

• Identify industry conferences offering high-quality workshops and bootcamps.
• Search online learning platforms like Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning for well-reviewed options.
• Talk to your manager about skill gaps to address and find internal training.
• Look for courses teaching new technology and business strategies in your field.

Continuous upskilling through courses gives you an advantage and ensures you stay on the cutting edge in a dynamic job market.

Get Involved with Associations

Joining industry associations, trade groups, and professional organizations expands your outlook and unlocks new upskilling opportunities. These groups offer ways to engage through conferences, local chapters, training seminars, and workgroups.

Benefits

• Access member-exclusive professional development resources, mentoring programs, and scholarships.
• Build your network by connecting with influential peers locally or nationwide.
• Participate in workshops, conferences, and online courses tailored to your profession.
• Grow your expertise and perspective by learning industry best practices.

Tips

• Search for organizations specializing in your niche area of focus.
• Attend association events – virtual or in-person to make connections.
• Take on volunteer leadership roles to get more involved and advance your skills.
• Read industry publications, blogs, and help create content as an association contributor.

Surrounding yourself with others passionate about moving the industry forward accelerates your own career growth.

Learn on the Job

Seek out stretch assignments, special projects, and temporary cross-training opportunities within your current role. Pushing yourself out of routine comfort zones builds capabilities.

Benefits

• Apply new technical or soft skills directly in real work situations for effective learning.
• Earning opportunities to take the lead on initiatives adds standout achievements to your resume.
• Broadens your perspective by gaining experience in diverse areas of the company.
• Demonstrating initiative and willingness to tackle new challenges can fast track you for promotion.

Tips

• Express interest to your manager in tackling more complex tasks or spearheading a pilot project.
• Volunteer for special task forces and committees to showcase your talents beyond everyday work.
• Shadow respected colleagues in departments you want to learn more about.
• Propose and lead a cross-functional team event bringing different areas of the company together.

Finding ways to challenge yourself daily accelerates professional maturity and prepares you for advancement.

Get a Mentor

Connecting with an experienced, knowledgeable mentor gives you an invaluable resource for career growth and navigating the ups and downs of the workplace. Their guidance can help you reach goals faster.

Benefits

• Gain insights from their accumulated years of knowledge working in the field.
• Help determining development areas and creating plans to build skills that drive your career forward.
• Makes you more visible to other leaders in the company who can influence promotion.
• Offers advice for avoiding pitfalls plus tips for workplace success they wish they knew earlier on.

Tips for Finding a Mentor

• Look for potential mentors in leadership roles you admire, who are supportive team players.
• Ask insightful, engaging questions about their experience and advice for your aspirations.
• Express your areas of interest and how their guidance would help you grow professionally.
• Schedule regular check-ins and communicate how their mentoring is impacting your progress.

Aligning yourself with a more experienced pro willing to take you under their wing provides invaluable direction to reach your potential.

Conclusion

Lifelong learning is critical for staying relevant in today’s job market and fully capitalizing on the opportunities before you. Using education to intentionally build your capabilities at strategic points pays dividends throughout your career journey. Earning degrees, taking skill-boosting courses, joining professional associations, seeking on the job challenges, and connecting with mentors offer proven ways to continually reach new heights. The investment in developing your talents results in growing your impact, income, and influence. Make it a priority to keep learning and achieve your full career potential.

6 Home Decor Styles to Transform Your Space

Decorating your home can seem overwhelming with the countless options and styles to choose from. To create an attractive space reflecting your tastes and personality, it helps to narrow your focus. We’ll look at six of the most popular home decor styles along with their distinctive traits. Understanding the different aesthetics can spark ideas and direction to give your rooms a beautiful, cohesive look. Let’s explore the basics of these influential decor styles and how to incorporate elements into your spaces.

Scandinavian Style

Scandinavian style is known for simplicity, functionality