We are in the process of repainting the trim of our old federal style farmhouse. One of the nicest features is the fanlight above our front door–see pictures. I am concerned that two more coats of paint–primer and topcoat–may obscure some of the trim details, so I’m wondering about stripping it. I’ve read that Peel Away is a good stripper. Is this a good idea? Do you think the fanlight detail could be plaster, and if so, what would stripper do to it?
Thanks for ideas. PS–should this question be in Breaktime?
Replies
I would use Methylene chloride stripper and keep it wet for a while before scraping.If you are concerned that the carving etc. is plaster just drill a 1/16 " hole in a inconspicous place and look at the swarf.This assumes that you are repainting it of course
Could be plaster, but I doubt it. Even if it is, I've had success using ordinary paint stripper (the thick stuff) on plaster column capitals. You might want to consider grinding some old kitchen knives to an appropriate profile to help you dig out the detailed areas. If Peel Away is the stuff that you apply, then apply a backing, then peel it off when it's dry, I've never used it -- only seen it on TV. Looked pretty neat, but more expensive than the ordinary stuff. I'd only use it if I had really fine detail I was concerned about.
Mike Hennessy
Pittsburgh, PA
Some strippers contain products that are carcinogens. Read the label.What's a few bucks if you can use a safer product. I never used peel-away but the safest is my choice. I assume your going to remove the window. I agree with Mike, I doubt its plaster. I never seen plaster on a transom from that period.Ron
Peel Away would be a good choice for the window.
I have used mostly Peel Away 7, which I think is easier to work with than the more commonly available Peel Away 1.
The manufacturer, Dumond, has a helpful web site. Go to products > peel away > then click on the various versions for info on each.
http://www.dumondchemicals.com/
EDIT: if you decide to use this stuff, let me know; I would add a couple of very important cautionary notes.
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"It is what we learn after we think we know it all, that counts."
John Wooden 1910-
Edited 2/7/2007 9:37 am by nikkiwood
Fine looking widow. We should save them all. I've stripped quite a bit of furniture. The early peel off was for things that were not to be stained. Menthol chloride strippers do good work you just need to stay in the fresh air. I have read that breathing the fumes through a cigarette is like phosgene gas. The fumes will also rust out a furnace in two seasons so don't use the stuff in a basement with the heat on. Use a plastic scrapper so you don't scratch the glass with that stripper. I use old dental picks on old furniture that's been painted.
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