Wood Stripping
We were referred to Andy Bristow, owner of the Tom Sawyer Stripping Service, to help us with the restoration of the wood trim and doors. Over the years, all of it had been heavily painted. To properly restore the wood and recapture the original look, we would need to remove all of the paint layers and then apply a light protective stain. Andy operates what may be the only "hot vat stripper" in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. At his shop in Arlington, his staff can handle the paint removal part quite easily.
The first step is to put each piece into a sodium hydroxide solution that has been heated to 160°. Here, Arthur Calhoun carefully places each piece into the hot vat stripper. After soaking for 15-20 minutes, all of the accumulated paint dissolves.
The residue is rinsed off with water and then each piece is set out to dry. After drying, vinegar is sprayed onto the wood to neutralize any of the chemicals that may have penetrated the wood.
If you have similar needs, call Andy at (817)261-7793
