Klean-Strip®

Strip Stubborn Paint

Step 1: Set Up

If working with a door, remove it from its hinges and place on sawhorse in a well-ventilated work area. If possible, keep work surface horizontal. Remove all hardware from the door, including knobs, lock, and hinges. If the door has inset glass, carefully tape off the glass before you begin.

Pour the KS-3 Premium Stripper into the metal container. Lay all of your tools nearby.

Step 2: Lay it on thick

Brush an even, liberal coat of stripper to a small area (up to 9 sq. ft.) The correct application is not like painting. Instead, you want to apply it at least 1/8" thick, so the stripper covers the old paint. Use short strokes in one direction only. Make sure to use the tip of your brush to work the stripper into the recesses of the wood.

Step 3: Check progress and remove paint

After 15-30 minutes, you should start to see the chemical reaction happening. The paint will start to bubble up and swell, and this will show that the finish is separating itself from the surface. Gently rub a small test area with the plastic stripping tool to see if the finish is softened and ready for removal. If not, wait an additional 15 minutes and check again.

Step 4: Remove the stripper and the paint comes with it

Remove loosened paint by gently scraping in direction of wood grain with the plastic stripping tool. Reapply stripper as necessary to keep the surface wet. Use the orange stick or stripping brush to scrape out old finish buried in recesses. Continue to alternately scrape, reapply stripper, and wipe with cloths as you progress.

Repeat as necessary. Multiple layers of paint may require several applications. There is no need to remove all stripper before starting a second application. Simply re-wet the working area and continue to let the old paint "soak" in the stripper.

Step 5: Finish up

By now, you should be seeing the fresh, clean surface emerging from beneath all that old finish. Use a clean abrasive pad dipped in KS-3 Premium Stripper to loosen remaining finish and remove any residue.

When the wood looks clean and clear of all finish, wipe off the stripper using an abrasive pad dipped in Klean-Strip Paint Stripper After Wash or Klean-Strip Odorless Mineral Spirits. The wood surface should be completely clean and dry before refinishing. Return unused stripper to the original container.

After each work session, place all rags, applicators, and old-finish residue in a well-ventilated area. Allow liquid to evaporate and residue to dry outdoors then dispose of in accordance with federal, state and local regulations.

If you need assistance, please contact a technical services representative at 800-398-3892, or email us at kleanStrip@wmbarr.com.

1. Read the instructions

Always read all cautions and directions on the product label before beginning a project. You should understand all aspects of the projects before you begin. You can also print this project plan and bring it along with you to the job site.

2. Prepare the work area

For best results, use chemicals in temperatures between 65° and 85°F. Open all windows and doors and use a fan to maintain a cross ventilation of moving fresh air across the work area. Protect surrounding areas with a heavy plastic drop cloth. Tape off painted areas around the wood you're stripping.

3. Ready to begin

When you are ready to get started, put on your chemical splash goggles and chemical-resistant gloves. Make sure you have soft rags within easy reach for clean-up of any splashes during the project.

Many windows and doors are finished in old paint compounds that may contain hazardous materials. Dispose of it in a metal container, and keep this in a well ventilated area until you are able to dispose of them. Check federal, state and local guidelines for proper disposal.