11 Best Paint Strippers For Metal Surfaces In 2023

Image: MomJunction Design Team

If you’re a DIY enthusiast, you’ll probably understand the difficulty of applying paint to metals. However, paint application is not the only hassle. You may also be met with the arduous task of removing the paint from metal. While you can always paint over surfaces that already have a coat of paint, we know that it just won’t cut it as doing so may make the surface much thicker and even rougher. Luckily for us, there are paint strippers that work great with metals.

Paint strippers are capable of working with varnish, lacquer, shellac, etc. And, if you’re here, it’s probably because you’re looking to learn more about the best paint strippers for metal and what material they may be best suited for. So why not join us as we browse through different paint removers that may be better suited for your needs.

Types Of Metal Paint Stripper

• Solvents

Solvents are a common yet versatile kind of paint stripper made up of strong chemicals that can break down the bonds of the paint on any surface. This type of paint stripper includes limonene (or other terpene solvents), n-methyl pyrrolidone, dibasic esters, aromatic hydrocarbons, and other solvents. However, the formula mainly required depends on the paint type and the composition of the underlying surface. Another commonly used solvent is nitromethane. If you’re looking for a less corrosive solvent, solutions using dimethyl sulfoxide are a great alternative.

• Caustic

Caustic paint removers, such as sodium hydroxide (also known as lye or caustic soda), break down the paint’s chemical bonds mainly through hydrolysis of the chain links of the polymers that make up the paint. Antique sellers who want to restore ancient furniture by removing aged varnishes, for example, frequently employ caustic aqueous solutions. Caustic paint strippers are alkaline and may interact with the paint on a chemical level, turning the paint into a soapy substance that makes it easy to remove paint from metal surfaces.

• Biochemical

Biochemicals are another type of remover that is less harsh when compared to solvents and caustic strippers. It is a mix of plant-based solvents and organic compounds. However, it does not work with other types of paints that are not either water-based or oil-based. These kinds of solvents are great for DIY workers as it is safe to work indoors, but of course, taking precautions with chemicals is always crucial as you can never be too sure how it may affect you.

• Zero-VOC

Zero-VOCs are the safest type of removers as they are made of natural solvents such as benzyl alcohol that have the least harmful effects. This type of paint stripper is much like biochemicals as it is safe to use indoors and for DIY projects. However, unlike the latter, it is much safer than biochemicals as it produces the least amount of toxic fumes in comparison.

11 Best Paint Stripper For Metals

1.Best Fast-Acting:Citristrip Paint And Varnish Stripping Gel

Citristrip is a powerful commercial-grade paint remover with a gel-like formula that remains moist and active for a full day, allowing you to remove multiple layers of paint in a single step.It does not contain harmful chemicals like methylene chloride or N-methyl pyrrolidone. Citristrip is non-caustic and is an essential tool for in-house paint removal. It is an effective stripping agent for removing multiple layers of latex and oil-based paint, varnish, lacquer, enamel, polyurethane, shellac, acrylics, and epoxy from wood, metal, and masonry surfaces. If you want to know more about the benefits of this paint remover for wood, check out thisquick review on YouTube.

Pros

• Works on wood, metal, and masonry surfaces
• Easy to use
• Fast-acting
• Pleasant smell

Cons

• May require water rinsing

2.Best Water-Based:Dumond Smart Strip Advanced Paint Remover

Smart Strip is a water-based paint stripper that is safe and can be applied to any substrate or environment. The formula of this paint stripper is methylene-chloride-free, non-carcinogenic, non-toxic, and non-caustic. It can effectively remove multiple layers of paint such as oil-based and water-based paints, acrylics, varnishes, urethanes, and even old lead paints. The Dumond Smart Strip paint remover for wood is versatile and works on other exterior surfaces like brick, stone, concrete, plaster, metal, plastic, glass, fiberglass, etc. You just need to apply the Smart Strip for 24 hours, and it will get the job done! Here’s anhonest reviewof the product.

Pros

• Removes multiple layers of paint/coatings
• Odor-free
• Safe water-based formula
• 100% biodegradable
• Works on lead paints older than 20 years

Cons

• May require a pressure wash

3.Best Non-Flammable:Evapo-Rust Safe-Erase Paint And Varnish Remover Gel

Strip off layers of rust without manually scraping it for hours with the help of Evapo-Rust Safe-Erase varnish remover gel. Its new formula has powerful solvents that quickly removes multiple layers of paint without giving out fumes or vapors. The rust-removal gel is suitable for indoor use and is strong enough to remove layers of epoxy, latex, and powder coatings. Apply a coat of this gel onto the paint you want to remove, let it sit for an hour, and then gently scrape it off with a knife or spatula to get the desired results.

Pros

• Non-flammable and non-carcinogenic
• Easy to use
• Non-acidic
• Free of hazardous chemicals such as caustic alkalis, methylene chloride, and N-Methyl Pyrrolidone

Cons

• May not be suitable for use on rubber and plastic
• Might have a strong smell

4.Best Dust-Free:MAX Strip Paint & Varnish Stripper

麦克斯带油漆和清漆脱模处理石头ghest stripping tasks with its patented wet work system for safe dust-free removal. Designed specifically to remove most types of paint and varnish safely from a variety of surfaces, it has no toxic fumes or chemicals like methylene-chloride or NMP. This paint remover for wood is skin safe and requires no special ventilation for safe use indoors on materials like glass, laminate, fiberglass, metal, wood, porcelain, plastic, furniture, and more!

Pros

• Easy to clean
• Simple application with non-drip gel
• No harsh fumes or unpleasant odor
• Free of hazardous chemicals
• Leaves no unwanted residue

Cons

• May not work on factory-finished paints

5.Best Semi-Paste:Sunnyside Corporation 634G1 Paint & Varnish

This 2-minute paint remover for wood is designed to remove multiple layers of finish in one application. Its methylene-chloride-free, semi-paste formula clings to surfaces to make paint removal easy.它迅速作用于终点和减轻木圣ains but does not harm wood or corrode metal.It can be used on wood, metal, masonry, marine, and automotive finishes and can even remove lacquers, shellacs, varnishings, epoxy, and polyurethane finishes.

Pros

• Fast-acting formula
• Safe to use on vertical and horizontal surfaces
• 100 sq. ft. per gallon coverage
• Available as gel or liquid
• Free of hazardous chemicals

Cons

• Scrubbing may be required for removing the residue

6.Best Methylene-Chloride-Free:Super Remover New Generation Remover

Super Remover’s New Generation Remover is a newly launched, high-quality stripper with a new formula as effective as its original formula. This revolutionary formula is free of methylene-chloride, NMP, or other highly toxic chemicals but works on par with methylene-chloride products. It is ideal for all stripping jobs and can remove up to 5 layers with a single application. The fast-acting paint stripper only requires 15 minutes to set in before the paint can be removed, making it one of the best metal paint strippers.

Pros

• Works safely on wood, metal, and concrete
• Removes varnish, epoxy, shellacs, etc.
• Adds a natural finish to surfaces
• Industrial-grade paint stripper
• Free of hazardous chemicals

Cons

• Sanding may become harder

7.Best Drip-Free:TotalBoat TotalStrip Fast-Acting Heavy Duty Gel Paint and Varnish Remover

Dissolve almost ten layers of paint or varnish in 24 hours with TotalBoat’s TotalStrip paint remover. The low-odor and non-toxic paint stripper is free of hazardous chemicals such as methylene chloride, NMP, and caustics, making it a biodegradable alternative to standard paint stripers. This gel paint stripper starts working within 15 minutes of application and does not require neutralization via acid wash. Additionally, this easy-to-apply remover is compatible with wood, metal, stone, and fiberglass surfaces, enabling you to strip paint quickly and effectively.

Pros

• Suitable for indoor use
• Fast-acting formula
• Suitable to remove oil-based paints
• Removes multiple layers of paint
• Drip-free consistency

Cons

• Hard paints may need slight scraping

8.Best For Indoor And Outdoor:Dumond Chemicals 1005N Peel Away Paint Remover

The 1005N Peel Away Paint Remover is one of the industry-leading paint removal products formulated to remove up to 32 coats of paint with a single application. The formula of this product is the safest way to remove lead-based paints and coatings, and it is also water-based, making it a breeze to prime and use. The solution emulsifies the coating, eliminating the need for sanding and reducing the possibility of airborne dust that may be hazardous.

Pros

• Ideal for indoor and outdoor use
• No harmful fumes
• Perfect remover for antique surfaces
• No sanding required

Cons

• May need a deep clean after the procedure

9.Best Fume-Free:Safe ‘N Easy Graffiti Remover

Safe ‘N Easy has manufactured one of the top-tier paint removers that can remove, epitomize, and clean DIY items. This graffiti remover gel works great on non-permeable surfaces that have been marked with either spray paints, colored pencils, or any other form of paints or coatings.The formula of this spray paint remover is designed to be non-dripping and fume-free with the added bonus of leaving no surface damages that some removers may leave.

Pros

• Simple application
• Non-drip remover formula
• 100-150 square feet per gallon distribution rate
• Versatile solution

Cons

• May not be suitable for smooth surfaces

10.Best Biodegradable:Krud Kutter Latex Paint Remover

Krud Kutter is a company known for its diverse assortment of cleaning solutions, and its latex paint remover is no exception. The remover works well at removing both fresh and dried latex paint stains that you may find either in the interior or on the exterior of your home or workspace. The solution is biodegradable, and with its low VOC, it quickly soaks into the paint and starts to loosen it within minutes of application chemically. The eco-friendly paint remover for wood can be used on multiple other surfaces such as carpets, fabric, brick, etc.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Simple application
• Versatile paint remover
• Fast-acting

Cons

• May not be suitable on leather

11.Best For Antiques:Klean Strip Paint Stripper After Wash With Centaurus AZ Gloves

Klean Strip Paint Stripper After Wash is ideal for eliminating stains and reducing leftovers from stripping while conditioning the surface for paint, stain, or topcoat in the metal refinishing process. Apply small batches of liquid paint stripper to freshly washed and clean stripping pads until all surface residue is erased. This is one of the best metal paint strippers available and it is ideal for antiques as the unique formula is designed not to stain or damage the surfaces it is applied on. It can be used with any variety of paint remover and materials like wood, metal, and bricks.

Pros

• Works well on multiple surfaces
• Safe for beginners to use
• Suitable for surface preparation
• Centaurus AZ Chemical Resistant Gloves provided with purchase

Cons

• Solution is highly volatile

How To Choose The Right Metal Paint Stripper?

Keep these factors in mind when choosing the best metal paint stripper.

1. Toxicity:Specific removers are less toxic than others, and hence it is safer to work on your own without outside help. Certain paint removers, such as solvents and caustic removers, work best as there is a shorter wait time for the paint to begin dissolving. However, they produce a lot of toxic fumes and can damage certain surfaces, depending on the type of metal the object is made of. It is also wise to remember while employing caustic paint removers, the chances of side effects and health hazards must also be considered as each type of paint remover has its pros and cons and depending on your needs and requirements. It is advised that you analyze the work you require the paint stripper for and make the purchase accordingly.
2. Application:就像有不同类型的油漆,在那里are different types of removers with varying application processes. For example, solvents are generally applied with thin layers and can be removed with a paint scraper. Caustic removers require a much thicker layer and are required to be applied for a longer duration in comparison to solvents (approximately 30 minutes or more). Biochemicals must be applied with thick layers, and due to their mild nature, they must be applied for anywhere between 3 to 4 hours. Low-VOC paint strippers need to be applied for a whole day with a thickness of 1/8th of an inch. You cannot use the same brush that you apply the remover with for painting, as these brushes are usually disposed of once used with a remover.
3. Safety:When using paint removers, you must always ensure the safety of yourself and any other individual or pet that may be around you. It is best to cordon off the area in which you will be using the remover and ensure the area is well ventilated. The fumes that some removers give off are toxic, especially the solvent removers and caustic removers. So it is also advised to equip yourself and whomever you may be working with personal protective equipment (PPE). The low-VOC paint strippers are ideal as they are the most environmentally friendly and the least hazardous and toxic form of paint remover. However, they require 24 hours to dissolve the bonds of the paint stain or droplets fully.

Why Trust MomJunction?

Wedetso Chirhah has considerable experience writing about household tools and items for home improvement. His passion lies in curating research-driven information to help you choose the right product. In this post, he has compiled a list of the best paint strippers for metal surfaces after considering user feedback posted on multiple websites. Moreover, he has also mentioned the different types of paint strippers and added useful tips on choosing the right product.

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