Remover/Thinner/Cleaner Buying Guide


Remover/Thinner/Cleaner

Getting Started

As the name says, a thinner is a product used to "thin" and dissolve the content of a finish, mostly paint. They make the finish less reliable and much easier to remove. A remover is a chemical used to remove the product entirely from a surface. Cleaning agents are substances used every day in a different form and with a different purpose. Choosing the right product is imperative for getting the desired results.

What to Consider

The type - there are several types of removals, thinners and cleaners. All depends on the type of work you are about to get done.

The surface - consider the surface you are using the products for before choosing the right one.

Tools - when choosing the right product, consider the way you are about to apply it.

Tips - learn some tips on using all these agents before buying the right one for yourself. They might cause you to change your decision.

Types of Removers

Solvent based removers contain MC (methylene chloride), and they are active for 15-30 minutes. This strong remover can strip up to 15 layers of paint or some other finish. Solvent based removers are robust and efficient. Solvent, type of removers penetrate into the layers. The main characteristic is the ability to break the bond between paint layers.

Safer removers are as the name says safe and not dangerous for usage. They are water based. Also, they do not have a smell, and secure removers are not flammable. Recommended usage is for the brick and stone and also for the wood or metal.

Forms of Removers

Thin remover should be applied if a surface is flat and had a lot of layers. This remover is easy to apply.

Thick paste is perfect for vertical surfaces. Thick paint can be used without fear it will fall off the surface, or it will not stick well.

Safety issues - Some of the removers can be highly flammable, and it is necessary to use protection gear. Cover the body, hands and eyes.

Remover Tools and Applications

Brushes - use them to apply the remover on flat surfaces. Recommended for thin remover application.

Scrub pads - they help to remove the finish or paint. 

Scrapers - used to remove the finish after the thinner has dissolved it.

Heat gun - If the case chemical products are not available, or person does not want to use them, there is an option to use other non-chemical removers.  Best tool and option to do so is with the heat gun. Heat gun utilises a heated scraper which will make a finish less stronger and with sharp moves it can be removed without any chemical. This process will take longer time. However, there is no need for additional equipment.

Types of Thinners

Tips for Choosing The Best Remover

Cleaning Agents

Tips for Choosing The Right Cleaning Agent

Ingredients list - there should be the exact list of the ingredients used. If the list is not there, do not use the product

Know what are you using - get familiar with toxins. Some of them can be dangerous, and even they are used to clean and help us maintain our health.

Take time to find one you prefer to use and do not buy products with the label Caution, Corrosive, Danger, Irritant, Poison, or Warning.

Consider natural cleaners:  baking soda, vinegar,  castile soap, lemon juice. 

Important Points for Cleaning Agents

Cleaning Tools