How to strip a door using a paint stripper

There are many ways of stripping paint from your door, including paint stripper, sanding and scraping.

Our door experts recommend using a paint stripper to restore the natural wood look of the doors in your home as an easy and reliable option.

Tools and materials you’ll need

Before you start, gather your items:

• Paint stripper: Choose a chemical stripper or an eco-friendly option.
• Scraper or putty knife: For removing loosened paint or varnish.
• Sandpaper: Various grits (80, 120, 220) for smoothing the surface.
• Heat gun: Optional but helpful for stubborn finishes.
• Wire brush: Ideal for intricate carvings or grooves.
• Drop cloth: To protect your floor or workspace.
• Safety gear: Gloves, goggles, and a mask.
• Cleaning materials: Cloths and a bucket of water.

Preparation steps

Remove the door from its frame

Unscrew the hinges, carefully remove the door and lay it flat on a stable surface. Then, remove and label the hardware and store it safely for reinstallation.

For stripping paint from hinges or hardware, remove them and use methods like boiling water with baking soda, chemical paint removers, or a heat gun. Clean and polish the hardware afterwards to restore its finish.

Prepare your workspace

Set up in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors or in a garage. Lay a drop cloth to catch debris and drips.

Clean the door

Wipe the door with a damp cloth to remove dirt, dust, and grease. A clean surface allows the stripper to work more effectively.

Steps for paint stripping a door

Step 1: Patch test the paint stripper solution

A paint stripper can remove the existing paint from the door. Before completing the full application, it is important to test a small patch.

• Add a small amount of the paint stripper solution to an area of the wooden door and assess the results. Doing this will tell you how much of the solution you need to add to the door to be effective.

Step 2: Apply the paint stripper

• Wear protective gloves to prevent hand injury. Also, clear the surroundings to prevent the stripper from getting on any other surfaces.
• Use a brush to apply an even coat of paint stripper across the surface in a suitable amount to ensure that all layers of paint are lifted from the door (as doors can have many coats applied over the years).

Step 3: Leave the paint to dissolve

• Cover the paint stripper with cling film, leaving it to work magic.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for wait time, which could take 15 minutes to several days. It all depends on how thick the paint layers are on the door.
• The paste will eventually dissolve the paint into a water-soluble residue.

Step 4: Clean up the paint

• If the softened paint peels away from the door when you remove the cling film, you know it’s ready.
• Peel it away with a scraper or putty knife. Work in sections to prevent the stripper from drying out.
• Dispose of the plastic and dissolved paint safely with gloves and a dust mask. If the property is older and you don’t know how long the paint has been on the door, be aware that it could contain old lead.

Tackle stubborn areas

If some spots resist scraping, use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove residue. A heat gun can also soften stubborn areas - just be cautious not to scorch the wood.

How to tell if a door has lead paint

To determine if a door has lead paint, check its age (pre-1978), look for "alligatoring" patterns, or use a lead test kit. Avoid dry scraping or sanding to prevent hazardous dust if lead is present. Instead, use chemical strippers or wet methods, wear protective gear, and contain the area, disposing of waste properly.

Step 5: Check for salt and neutralise the wood

• Once the wood is completely dry, crystalline salt may be on the door. Brush this off and rinse the surface again.
• You can neutralise the wood by sponging it down with a solution of white vinegar and water (1 part vinegar, 3 parts water).

As paint strippers use chemicals to remove stubborn layers, the chemicals can damage the wood if they stay on the surface. Neutralising the wood will stop any active ingredients found in the paint stripper.

Step 6: Sand the door

• When most of the finish is removed, use sandpaper to smooth the door, ensuring you follow the wood grain.
• Protect the wood by applying a finish of liquid beeswax.
• Once it has dried, buff it with a cotton cloth and add wax polish for an extra shine.

Inspect the door for any missed spots and repeat the process if necessary. Once satisfied, you’re ready to refinish! Choose a new paint colour, stain, or varnish to give your door a brand-new look.