Removing Paint From a Metal Window Frame
In the past, removing paint from any surface was challenging because you needed to use abrasives or chemicals to strip off the paint. Now, new and safer products are available that allow you to remove paint easier with less fewer toxic ingredients.
This is the best option for cleaning paint off a metal window frame because you can avoid making a mess on the glass by applying the remover more precisely. Make sure the paint stripper instructions state the stripper works on metal.
Things You Will Need
- Trisodium phosphate
- Sponge
- Gel paint stripper
- Paintbrush
- Scraper
Tip
Apply a second coat of stripper if not all the paint came off the first time. Gel paint strippers will even remove lead paint safely. Wear a mask while removing it, and contact your local municipality about proper disposal.
Warning
Wear protective gloves when working with the paint stripper.
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Wash the window frame with trisodium phosphate. Use a sponge to remove any cleaner residue or dirt. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly. This step will ensure the stripper adheres only to the metal, not anything left on the surface.
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Use a paintbrush to paint a gel paint stripper onto the metal frame. Use a paintbrush that is slightly thinner than the window frame so you don't spread the stripper onto the window. Cover the entire frame with the gel stripper.
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Wait from 2 to 24 hours for the gel stripper to work. The length of time will vary depending on the type of paint that is on the window frame and the type of stripper you are using. Consult the manufacturer's instructions to better judge how long the stripper should stay on.
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Test a small area using a scraper to peel off a section of the paint. The paint will peel off in strips when ready. Peel all of the paint off the window frame.
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Rinse the window frame with plain water to remove any stripper residue.
The Drip Cap
- In the past, removing paint from any surface was challenging because you needed to use abrasives or chemicals to strip off the paint.
- This is the best option for cleaning paint off a metal window frame because you can avoid making a mess on the glass by applying the remover more precisely.
- Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
- Test a small area using a scraper to peel off a section of the paint.
Writer Bio
Shara JJ Cooper graduated with a bachelor's degree in journalism in 2000, and has worked professionally ever since. She has a passion for community journalism, but likes to mix it up by writing for a variety of publications. Cooper is the owner/editor of the Boundary Sentinel, a web-based newspaper.
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