Scrape off paint by dry scraping and sanding or using IR heat
Whether you are planning to repaint your facade, boat, windows or furniture, it is important that you remove the old paint first. You always want to paint on a clean, dry and solid surface so that the new paint does not settle as a surface over moisture and dirt. This means that the result will not be as nice and the paint will peel off faster. When choosing a paint removal method, there are several factors to consider. Paint removal using IR technology and dry scraping are two techniques that are gentle on the environment and people, but both have their advantages and disadvantages.
Speedheater IR system |
Dry scraper/grind |
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An IR lamp heats the paint, which softens and becomes easy to scrape off. | Scrape directly onto the paint with a paint scraper or sand with sandpaper |
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Does not release harmful amounts of toxins from the paint. | Minimal. Just make sure to collect the old paint and recycle it in the right place. |
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The method requires low energy consumption. | No one! Just old, honest, human labor. |
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The tool's low temperature means low risk of burns. Does not release harmful amounts of toxins. | Calm and methodical work with the paint scraper means minimal risk of personal injury. |
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Low risk of fire and burns on wooden surfaces. When the paint softens, it is easy to scrape off in a way that is gentle on the wood. | As the paint can be very sticky in some areas, be careful not to apply too much. This can result in scratches and marks. |
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In the short term, it is a relatively high purchase price. However, a long lifespan and low energy consumption provide good economics in the long term. | Very cheap method as all you need is a paint scraper and possibly sandpaper. |
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High resale value. Great demand on the used market. | Not very high, most people buy new tools. |
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Fast heating, covers large areas and no pre- or post-work required. | Dry scraping is the least time-efficient paint removal method. |
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High quality and long-lasting products. Replacement and support for any factory defects as well as service and repairs at favorable prices. | By sharpening your scrapers, you can use them many times. Sandpaper, on the other hand, wears out quickly and needs to be replaced. |
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Ergonomically designed to minimize personal injury and simplify use. | Requires patience and strength as the paint can stick hard. |
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High flexibility. Many areas of use, suitable for small and large projects and on different types of substrates. | Best suited for smaller areas and paint that has already started to peel off. |
When is it best to choose Speedheater over another method?
For paint removal on larger surfaces and especially if the paint has not dried out enough to come off on its own, Speedheater's IR technology is best. It is also preferable if you want a time-efficient job that is not particularly physically demanding. The fact that the paint comes off so easily after heating also makes it easier to get a gentle paint removal, so for those who are concerned about the substrate, this method can make the process easier.
Speedheater is clearly the more expensive option of these two. At the same time, it is a tool that has a long shelf life, can be used for furniture, facades, carpentry and boats, etc. So if you are a DIYer who thinks that you or someone close to you will have use for it again, then a Speedheater is an investment worth considering.
When is it best to choose dry scraping and sandpaper over Speedheater?
If you are just scraping off paint on a small, flat surface, you will be fine with a simple paint scraper. If the paint is old and has already started to peel off, it will make things a lot easier. If not, dry scraping is best for those who can afford to put a little extra time and energy into the paint removal process. If the paint is stubborn, it can be physically strenuous to scrape, but it can be done with a little patience and willpower. Just remember to be careful not to go too hard and damage the surface!
