Hey folks! We're looking to strip the paint off our front door, which the previous owners had painted black. We'd much prefer the natural wood look. I've heard about products like Citristrip, but I'm unsure if I need to take the door down to lay it flat for the process. Is it possible to work on the door while it's still on its hinges? Or would using a heat gun be better? We don't usually tackle DIY projects, so any tips would be really appreciated!
2 Answers
First off, yes, you'll definitely need to remove the door! Most front doors aren’t wood even if they look like it, so it’s worth checking with a magnet first. If it is wood, you should strip it on a flat surface, like sawhorses, to do it properly. Citristrip is an option, but just remember it’s a lighter stripper—probably not as effective as some others. A heat gun might come in handy for getting some latex paint off, but be careful to not damage the wood underneath! Overall, expect this to be a multi-day project. Just follow the manufacturer's instructions closely and keep your workspace clean, especially if you're working indoors.
Remember, stripping the door and staining it isn’t as easy as it sounds. The results can be uneven unless you put in a ton of effort. So, make sure to plan for a lot of sanding after stripping—it’s a big part of the process! It’s best to strip the door entirely before re-staining to prevent a blotchy finish, and you’ll want to keep a tarp down because it can get messy! Just know this isn’t a quick job and might end up costing a bit if you hire someone.
Absolutely right! That's why people often pay a lot for a proper refinishing job, as it takes careful work to avoid those blotchy mistakes.
Definitely avoid citrus products if you want a serious paint remover. Klean Strip is a great choice here, and you can apply it outside to avoid any mess indoors. Make sure you're equipped with a good putty knife and steel wool for those detailed areas!