Posted by: A/Z on March 05, 2000 at 15:50:51

In Reply to: Removing Paint Posted by: Randy on March 04, 2000 at 01:38:07

I have tried to remove the paint from our interior doors and facings. They have numerous coats and a stain underneath. It leaves a gummy substance and I'm not having any luck getting it off. I'd like to take it down to the bare wood and restain. The stain that's on the doors is very dark. I would appreciate any help you can give me with this.

Answer:
This is a tough job. Using paint strippers and scrapers is the only way out. You could try sanding them down, but you won't be satisfied. You might have to do the best you can then compromise by re-painting instead of staining. Good luck!

The gummy substance that you are encountering on your doors and facing could possibly be varnish. To remove this gummy material, use denatured alcohol. Wear a respirator, eye protection and gloves. Apply it with a brush, - no splashing- wait a bit and first wipe it off with paper towelling, then with a rough wad of steel wool. The steel wool can be dipped into the alcohol, cleaned up a bit, and used again. Use a finer steel wool pad to finish project. Respect the chemicals...only work with proper ventilation and equipment.