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Tommy Walsh's DIY Guide
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Tommy Walsh's DIY Guide (2001)(Empire).iso
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t13b.txt
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1998-10-05
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1KB
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Summary
Using a heat gun is less hazardous to your health
than dry stripping paint. However, caution is still
required, read the following steps to minimise the risks:
1 Safety notice
2 Softening the paint
3 Removing the paint
Tools
Heat gun, face mask, goggles, gloves, scraper, shave hook.
Step 1 - Safety notice
Since the 1960s manufacturers have gradually reduced
the amount of lead in paint. While stripping old paint,
especially when dry stripping, there is a real danger of
inhaling the lead. Using heat will reduce this risk, but
you must take care not to burn the paint or the same lead
vapour will be released. Be wary of your own safety and
of the fire hazards associated with using heat.
Step 2 - Softening the paint
Never burn the paint as this will release toxic fumes and
is a serious fire hazard. It can also damage the surface
you are trying to prepare. Gently move the heat gun back
and forth over the area and do not concentrate on any one
part. The paint will soften in seconds unless it is
especially thick.
Step 3 - Removing the paint
Once the paint has been softened, use a broad bladed
scraper to remove the bulk of the paint. For mouldings
use a shave hook. Some heat guns have a scraper
attachment that can be used to directly soften and remove
the paint in one action.