How it works
The heat gun's hot air loosens the paint, causing it to bubble and blister. You can then scrape the paint away with a metal scraper or putty knife.
How to use a heat gun
1. Prepare the working area
Check your paint
2. Choose the correct nozzle
Heat gun nozzle types:
Surface nozzle
Glass protection nozzle
Reduction nozzle
Reflector nozzle
3. Heat & scrape the paint
Set the right temperature
Lower temperature: Speedheater™ only needs to heat paint to 110-160°C/400-600 to separate the bottom layer of paint from the wood. Heat guns need to heat paint, layer by layer, to 400°C/1000 in order for the surface to be scrapable.
Start on a low heat setting and work your way up
Hold the heat gun about 2–3 inches from the surface at a 45-degree angle.
Move the heat gun back and forth over a small area until the paint bubbles.
Scrape away the paint with a metal scraper or putty knife.
Repeat for any stubborn areas
Alternative options for removing paint
If you don’t want to use a heat gun to remove your paint, you do have other options.
1. Paint strippers
2.Sanding
Heat gun safety
Heat guns can reach very high temperatures, so it’s important to use them with care
Fire risk
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. High fire risk since the heat blows into cracks and reaches the surface behind the paint where dust and dirt can start to smolder. The material behind the wood can also begin to smolder and ignite long after use. Spray the work with water at the end of the day, from a spray bottle if necessary.
Environmental impact
Wear a respirator face mask and protective gloves. Releases toxins encapsulated in the paint and can be harmful to the user. If you have lead paint on any of those things, be extremely careful. You should do it as much outside as you can, and definitely wear a lead stripping rated respirator. Regular heat gun gets hot enough to vaporize lead and set paint/wood on fire.
Risk of material damage
High heat and sparks mean a high risk of fire and burns on surfaces. High risk of cracking glass when heating. If you're using the heat gun around windows, use a glass protection nozzle and a low setting.
FAQ
Will a hot air gun remove varnish?
A heat gun works very well. Varnish is much easier than paint to remove with this method so if you've ever stripped paint with a heat gun you are in for a pleasant surprise.
What is the fastest way to remove paint from wood?
That's right - Acetone! It evaporates quickly, doesn't leave a residue, plus it works wonders in removing paint from wood grain. Once it evaporates, the body is safe to handle without gloves. Bear in mind the most important safety aspects of working with Acetone.
Why is my heat gun not removing paint?
If you encounter any stubborn spots of paint, don't hold the heat gun over the paint until it burns. Instead, go back and sand later. Your heat gun will have a number of different heat settings, we recommend starting on the lowest setting first, then work up to higher heats if required.
What do professionals strip paint with?
Caustic or sodium hydroxide liquid chemicals – These strippers can work in 10 minutes or up to several hours, depending on the chemical and thickness of the paint. They work best on carved and detailed surfaces.
What is the best tool to remove lead paint?
Try to just get the paint warm, and scrape it while it's a little soft, don't expect it to be easy.
