Paint removal professionals near you

The easiest method depends on the surface and paint type. For most walls, a combination of scraping, sanding, and using a chemical stripper is effective. This process can be messy, and for larger jobs, you might need professional junk removal to clear away the waste.

Professionals remove paint using methods chosen for the surface type, paint condition, and project size. For example, they might do the following:

• Chemical paint strippers: Applied to soften paint so it can be scraped away without damaging the surface.

• Heat-based methods: Heat guns or infrared tools loosen paint for safe removal.

• Sanding or grinding: Used for tough coatings or large areas, often with dust containment.

• Media blasting: Low-pressure blasting with materials like soda or sand for brick, metal, or concrete.

• Surface repairs: After removal, pros may patch, smooth, or prep the surface for repainting.

Using the right technique helps protect the surface, control dust and debris, and ensure a clean, paint-ready finish.

Whether it’s better to paint over or remove old paint depends on the condition of the existing surface:

• Paint over old paint: This works when the existing paint is in good shape—firmly adhered, smooth, and free of peeling or bubbling. Proper cleaning, light sanding, and priming help ensure good results.

• Remove old paint: Removal is recommended if the paint is peeling, cracking, blistering, or damaged by moisture. It’s also necessary when switching paint types or restoring historic surfaces.

In general, painting over sound paint saves time and money, while removing damaged paint creates a longer-lasting, higher-quality finish.

When looking for a professional for paint removal, make sure you complete the following steps:

• Verify their license and insurance: Your pro should have general liability insurance. For homes built before 1978, they may need an EPA Lead-Safe certification. Other licensing requirements can vary by region.

• Get several estimates: A proper estimate should detail the removal method, labor and material costs, and the plan for containment and cleanup.

• Read their reviews: Look for mentions of professionalism, careful work, and thorough cleanup. Red flags include complaints about damaged surfaces or unexpected fees.

• Look at their portfolios: Check for before-and-after photos of projects on surfaces similar to yours. The final result should be smooth and ready for a new finish.

• Find out if they have warranties: Ask if they offer a guarantee on the quality of their work or protection against damage to the underlying material.

• Ask important questions: You can ask, “What removal method will you use and why?” and “How will you manage dust, debris, and disposal?”

There are several factors that might impact the cost of this project, including:

• Project size: The total square footage that needs paint removal is a primary cost driver. A single room will naturally cost less than the entire exterior of a house.

• Surface material: Different surfaces require different techniques. Removing paint from delicate woodwork, for example, is often more labor-intensive than stripping it from a concrete floor.

• Type of paint: If the pro discovers lead-based paint, they'll need to follow specific safety and disposal protocols, which can increase the project's cost.

• Removal method: The technique your pro uses will affect the price. Methods can range from chemical strippers and sanding to using a heat gun. For some surfaces, a pro might even use pressure washing to strip away old paint.

• Number of layers: The more layers of paint there are, the more time and effort it will take to remove them all, which can impact the total labor cost.

Some of the biggest benefits of professional paint removal include the following:

• Safer process. Older paint can contain lead, and chemical strippers release strong fumes. A pro uses the correct safety equipment and containment methods to protect your home and family from hazardous materials.

• Surface protection. It’s easy to accidentally gouge wood or damage drywall when stripping paint. Professionals have the skill to remove paint gently, preserving the integrity of the surface for its new finish.

• Faster completion. Professional paint removal is far more efficient than a DIY job. With industrial-grade tools and experience, a pro can complete the work in a fraction of the time it would take you.

• A better final finish. For new paint or stain to last, the surface must be perfectly clean and smooth. Professionals ensure all old paint is gone, creating an ideal canvas for a durable, high-quality finish.

• No-hassle cleanup. Paint stripping is a messy job. A pro handles all the cleanup and disposal of debris, which can sometimes require coordination with a junk removal service for proper handling.

It’s recommended that you perform paint removal only when the paint is failing, not on a set schedule. You should look for signs like cracking, peeling, or bubbling, which indicate the old paint needs to be stripped for a new coat to adhere properly. This ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish and can create debris, so you may need to arrange for junk removal afterward.