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Strip old paint.
Chemical, heat-gun or sanded — old layers removed without damaging the timber or plaster underneath.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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Heat gun damage
Excessive heat scorches wood or melts uPVC. Use chemical strip on heat-sensitive substrates.
Skin contact with chemical stripper
Wear gloves, eye protection, ventilation. Modern water-based strippers are safer but still caustic.
Lead exposure
Dry sanding pre-1960s paint releases lead dust. Use wet methods only.
Incomplete removal
Multiple paint layers need multiple applications. Don't rush — let stripper work fully.
Costs & timeline
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Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Chemical stripper per litrePeelaway, Strypa
£15–£40
Heat gun hire per dayMost homeowners own one
£10–£25/day
Skirting/architrave per metreStripping labour
£10–£30
Internal door stripIncluding off-site option
£80–£250
Stair spindles per spindleFiddly, time-consuming
£15–£40
Soda blasting per m²Off-site service
£25–£60/m²
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
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Stripping old paint reveals original wood, removes failed coatings, or prepares a surface for a new finish. Expect to pay £15–£80 per m² for UK paint stripping depending on method, layer count, and lead-paint concerns.
What Does the Work Involve?
Three main methods. Chemical stripping: water-based or solvent-based paste applied, allowed to soften (15 minutes to 24 hours), paint scraped off. Heat gun: hot air softens paint, scraped off with putty knife. Abrasive: sanding, scraping, or media-blasting (sand, soda, dry-ice). Method depends on substrate, layer count, and lead-paint presence (always test if pre-1960).
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical stripper per litre | 15 | 40 | Peelaway, Strypa |
| Heat gun hire per day | 10 | 25 | Most homeowners own one |
| Skirting/architrave per metre | 10 | 30 | Stripping labour |
| Internal door strip | 80 | 250 | Including off-site option |
| Stair spindles per spindle | 15 | 40 | Fiddly, time-consuming |
| Soda blasting per m² | 25 | 60 | Off-site service |
| Lead paint test | 30 | 80 | One sample |
| Asbestos test (textured paint) | 30 | 80 | If pre-2000 Artex |
How Long Does It Take?
Single internal door: half to full day. Whole staircase including spindles: 1–2 days. Whole-room woodwork strip: 2–4 days.
DIY or Professional?
DIY-able for small areas with chemical stripper or heat gun. Lead paint testing required for pre-1960s properties — wet sanding only. Professional service for stairs, spindles, or large jobs.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
A specialist paint stripper or decorator. For lead paint, use a contractor familiar with CONIAC/HSE guidelines. Off-site soda blasting (eco-friendly, no chemicals) is a great option for doors and furniture.
UK Regulations
Lead paint: pre-1960s painted surfaces likely contain lead. Wet methods only (no dry sanding). HSE guidelines apply. Asbestos: pre-2000 Artex may contain asbestos — test first, never dry-strip.
Common Problems
- Heat gun damage: Excessive heat scorches wood or melts uPVC. Use chemical strip on heat-sensitive substrates.
- Skin contact with chemical stripper: Wear gloves, eye protection, ventilation. Modern water-based strippers are safer but still caustic.
- Lead exposure: Dry sanding pre-1960s paint releases lead dust. Use wet methods only.
- Incomplete removal: Multiple paint layers need multiple applications. Don't rush — let stripper work fully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the easiest way to strip old paint?
Chemical strippers (Peelaway, Strypa) for most situations. Heat gun for thicker built-up paint on wood. Soda blasting (off-site) for the cleanest job.
Is my old paint lead-based?
Pre-1960s: likely yes. Pre-1990s: possible. Get a £30 lead test if uncertain. Treat as lead and wet-method if not tested.
Can I just sand the paint off?
For modern paint, yes — wear a dust mask. For pre-1960s paint, never dry-sand — lead risk.
Heat gun safe?
Yes, with proper technique. Don't hold too close (charring), wear eye protection (chips fly). Risk-assess for lead paint first.
What's soda blasting?
Bicarbonate of soda media propelled at the surface — strips paint without damaging substrate. Eco-friendly, professional service.
Cost of stripping a whole staircase?
£500–£1,500 professional including spindles, newel posts, handrail, treads (if exposed wood). DIY: 2–3 weekends with chemical stripper.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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