Blog>Questions>What's an environmentally friendly method of removing paint from a staircase?

Last updated: 15 March 2021

What's an environmentally friendly method of removing paint from a staircase?

We have a 1930's staircase that is boarded and painted with several layers of paint. It all needs removing prior to it being repainted. I am asthmatic and don't want anything that is chemically and smelly. Could anyone remove it all using a more environmentally friendly method?

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Question: We have a 1930's staircase that is boarded and painted with several layers of paint. It all needs removing prior to it being repainted. I am asthmatic and don't want anything that is chemically and smelly. Could anyone remove it all using a more environmentally friendly method?

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Answer(s):

Lea Graham, LG Painting

There is stuff that you can get from toolstation call paint and varnish remover eco friendly it’s about £12.22 hope this helps it doesn’t smell.

Daniel Place, DDP Decor Painting & Decorating Contractors

As a company, when undertaking this sort of project we offer 2 options. 1) aid the removal of the paint currently on the surface with paint stripper or other solvent-based products. 2) apply heat with a heat gun or blowtorch to remove any paint on the surface.

Personally, I always suggest the 2nd option as it is far less messy and the way in which it is removed does not leave unpleasant odours. Also, it is not harmful to humans and the environment. Given the information you have given re health, option 2 is by far your best and safest opinion. I hope this is of help.

Sean Saunders, Sean Saunders Painting & Decorating

The best product I could recommend is a water-based paint stripper called peelaway. I​t will be a messy job and time consuming and will still take some elbow grease.

Daz Heath, DTP PAINTING AND DECORATING LTD

Hi, there is a product called IPSTRIP500, it’s gel-based and you would apply with a brush, hope this helps.

Wayne De Wet, Wayne De Wet

Removing paint & varnish can be quite a dangerous task as the chemicals in some products can be quite dangerous. I use Home Strip, made by Ecosolutions. You can find them on Instagram and it is the best on the market! Amazon can deliver too! Lots of people use it for upcycling furniture & painted woodwork etc. It is a completely safe product to use. I highly recommend HomeStrip & Trade Strip. The secret is to cover the item with plastic to keep it moist. My (@ToolTalk1) Instagram has an 100 year old surface lock restoration from start to finish using Home Strip

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4t73dQh...d=trh4hdetsclg

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