Conventional paint removal techniques are labor-intensive, taxing, and environmentally harmful. They entail the application of chemicals, a 12-to 24-hour incubation period, paint and chemical removal, and waste disposal. On the other hand, the infrared paint removal technique needs a 60-second electrical shock.

Infrared wavelengths penetrate the paint and activate its molecules, causing it to melt, bubble up, and separate from the wood. Although some smoke and fumes exist, they don’t contain lethal vaporized lead.

Here is a step-by-step process for using an IR Paint Stripper:

Heat the paint with the IR paint stripper

Temporarily place the infrared lamp over the desired paint removal region. You will see the paint react instantly. When you hold the infrared machine over a surface, the heat takes around 20 seconds to penetrate the paint to the point where it begins to lift. Place the infrared heater on its dual-purpose heat shields when working on a horizontal surface.

Unlike traditional paint removal techniques, the heated paint does not release any dangerous materials. Furthermore, because infrared light can easily reach into small spaces, it can completely reveal the wood grain on carved wooden furniture. Besides paint, IR also removes old glue, varnish, and window putty. When appropriately used, the heat will never be so high that it could burn wood or break window glass.

Remove the pliable paint using a scraper.

During heating, the infrared radiation penetrates multiple paint layers and frequently reaches the substrate. While the heat is intense enough to soften the paint, it is not hot enough to burn wood surfaces or release harmful compounds from the paint. The surface is not scratched or harmed by the paint scraper since the soft paint is easy to remove and doesn’t require strong pressure.

The best thing about using the IR paint stripper is that it maintains even, predictable outcomes by concentrating and containing the heat. If you’re working on a large, flat area, you can scrape clean an area around 4 inches by 12 inches every 20 to 40 seconds because of how thorough it is.Remember that the quantity and quality of paint layers affect how quickly or slowly the process progresses.

Repaint right away.

No waiting period is required before applying a fresh coat of paint because you can operate without solvents, and the surface is clean and dry after scraping. When you’re ready to paint, heat the area for about 30 seconds, use a sharp scraper to remove any remaining paint, and then repaint the surface. Power sanding is unnecessary, but light hand sanding is an option if you want the surface to be smoother after scraping. The process is quick, easy, and produces an excellent outcome!

Conclusion

The paint industry has evolved to recognize and embrace infrared technology for paint removal. It offers lasting durability and various uses, from big exteriors to tiny woodworking projects.This makes it an excellent investmentfor anyone who invests a lot of time in home repair, furniture restoration, or repurposing.