Heat Gun Paint Removal

Removing old paint can be very difficult task, especially, in case of multiple layers of paint. But, removal of old paint cannot be avoided, as repainting is done only after removing the old one. Old paint removal can be unhealthy too, if such paint contains lead particles, which are considered to be toxic for the human body and may cause lead poisoning. You may remove old paint by scraping or by using paint strippers or paint removers, which are solvent mixtures, meant for removing paint and other finishes. However, heat gun paint removal is considered to be one of the safest methods for removing old paint. Scroll down for more information on how to use a heat gun for paint removal.

Heat Gun for Removing Paint

Heat guns are devices that emit hot air. This device resembles a hair dryer in shape, but can emit air of very high temperatures. These devices emit air of temperatures that range between 200 - 1000 °F, but some models have the capacity to blow air of a temperature of around 1400 °F too. Heat gun is used for various purposes, like, plastic welding, thawing frozen pipes, drying damp wood, softening adhesives, etc. However, it is commonly used for drying paint and for removing paint. In case of heat gun paint stripping, you have to make sure that the device should emit air in a temperature range of 400 - 600 °F, so that the lead particles in the paint do not vaporize (it takes a temperature of around 1000 °F for lead particles in paint to vaporize). Heat guns can be used to remove old paint, varnish and other finishes, that too with much ease. Using heat gun to remove paint can be very easy, as the paint softens with the hot air and bubbles up. This softened paint can be easily removed with a metal scraper. The following are some tips and guidelines regarding how and when to use a heat gun for paint removal.

• Before using heat gun for paint removal, you have to ensure your safety by wearing long sleeves, safety glasses and a respirator specially designed to be used with heat gun. It is also recommended to keep a fire extinguisher handy.
• Now, prepare the surface by cleaning it with water, in order to remove dust and other residue. As you plug in the heat gun, make sure that the nozzle of the device is pointed towards the work surface only. You have to keep the nozzle at a safe distance from the work surface (at least two inches).
• You can start the process of paint removal by moving the device back and forth over the work surface, so that the paint starts to bubble and melt.
• Stop the heat gun, as the paint melts. Use a paint scrapper to remove the melting paint. It is better to use flat scrappers for flat surfaces and triangular ones for carved surfaces. Special paint scrappers with angled blades are found to be more effective in this task.
• If there is any paint that remains on the surface, you may remove it with the scrapper or else, use the heat gun once again. This may be needed for crevices and curves.

Now, you have a basic idea about heat gun paint removal, which can be done very easily. It is also better and safer than other methods of paint removal. However, personal safety is more important, so never forget to use the safety gear.