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Remove Old Paint from Walls
(A practical guide for Aussie homeowners and renovators)
Ever started painting a room and noticed the old paint bubbling, cracking, or peeling off like paper? That's your wall telling you it needs a proper clean-up before the next coat. Removing old paint might not sound exciting, but it’s one of the most important steps for getting a smooth, lasting finish.
This guide will cover everything you need to know, from what tools you'll need to how to do it safely and effectively, whether you're planning a complete home makeover or just cleaning up a shabby area.
Why Bother Removing Old Paint?
You might wonder, "Can't I just paint over the old stuff?"
In some cases, you can, but not always. Here's why removing old paint is often worth the effort:
- Better adhesion: New paint sticks best to a clean, stable surface.
- Longer life: Layers of old paint can hide cracks, mould, or moisture issues.
- Smooth finish: Flaking or uneven paint can ruin the look of your new colour.
- Prevents peeling: Paint that isn't bonded properly will peel again, even if it looks fine at first.
At Painters Link, our professional painting services in Sydney often start with thorough surface preparation. We've seen jobs where skipping paint removal caused entire sections to peel off within months. Don't let that happen to your freshly painted wall.
Step 1: Identify the Type of Paint
Determine the type of paint you are working with before you begin to scrape away. Lead-based paint may be present in older homes, particularly those constructed prior to the 1970s.
Do not sand or scrape it dry if you suspect this. Lead dust is harmful and can have an impact on your health.
How to check:
If lead is present, it's best to call a licensed professional to handle removal safely.
For newer homes, the paint is usually latex (acrylic) or oil-based.
- Acrylic paint tends to soften with water or heat.
- Oil paint needs solvents or more aggressive removal methods.
Step 2: Gather the Right Tools and Safety Gear
Having the right gear makes a world of difference. Here's a checklist that’ll get you ready:
| Category | Tools and Products |
| Safety Gear | Gloves, goggles, dust mask or respirator (P2), long sleeves |
| Tools | Paint scraper, putty knife, wire brush, sanding block, drop sheets |
| Heat/Power Tools | Heat gun, electric sander, extension cord |
| Chemicals (optional) | Paint remover or stripper (look for low-VOC, biodegradable options like Dulux Precision Paint Remover) |
| Clean-Up | Bucket, mild detergent, sponge, rags |
Tip: Always keep windows open and fans on to ventilate the room, especially if you're using paint stripper or sanding indoors.
Step 3: Protect the Area
Before you start, prepare the space.
- Move furniture out or cover it with plastic sheets.
- Lay down drop sheets to protect floors.
- Tape around window frames, switches, and skirting boards.
If you're working in Sydney's humid summer months, it's best to start early in the morning when it's cooler. Paint removal can be sweaty work, and ventilation matters more when humidity is high.
Step 4: Choose the Best Paint Removal Method
There is no one "right" way to do it; it all depends on the type of wall, the paint, and how patient you are. These are the most popular and successful choices.
1. Scraping and Sanding (For Light Layers)
This is the old-school method that still works wonders.
How to do sanding:
- Use a paint scraper or putty knife to lift loose or flaking paint.
- For stubborn areas, lightly sand with 120- to 150-grit sandpaper.
- Wipe off dust with a damp cloth.
If the wall underneath is plaster, be gentle, you don't want to gouge it. For gyprock or drywall, avoid too much pressure or you'll damage the paper layer.
Tip: Professional painters often use Festool or Mirka sanders with built-in dust extraction for cleaner results.
2. Heat Gun (For Multiple Layers)
A heat gun softens old paint so you can scrape it off easily. It’s great for timber trims and plaster walls with thick paint build-up.
How to do it:
- Hold the heat gun about 10-15 cm from the surface.
- Move it slowly until the paint starts to bubble.
- Scrape gently before it cools down.
- Don't stay too long in one spot, it can scorch the wall or cause plaster to crack.
Safety tip: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case. Avoid this method on lead-based paint unless handled by professionals.
3. Paint Stripper (For Stubborn or Oil-Based Paint)
When you're dealing with old oil paint or several layers that just won't budge, a chemical paint remover works best.
How to use it to remove the old paint:
- Apply the stripper with a brush or roller.
- Wait 15-30 minutes (or as the label says).
- Once the paint softens, scrape it off carefully.
- Clean the wall with mild detergent and water to remove residue.
Modern strippers like Dulux Professional Paint Remover or 3M Safest Stripper are safer and less harsh than older formulas, often being low-VOC and water-based.
4. Steam Stripping (For Wallpapered or Painted Surfaces)
If the wall has both paint and wallpaper layers, a steam stripper helps loosen both at once.
- Hold the steamer pad against the wall for a few seconds.
- Peel off softened layers with a scraper.
- Wipe the surface clean and let it dry.
Steam is gentle and chemical-free, making it perfect for older Sydney terrace homes with delicate plaster walls.
5. Professional Paint Removal (For Large or Delicate Surfaces)
Sometimes it’s just easier and safer to call in the experts.
Professional painters in Sydney, like the team at Painters Link, use industrial-grade sanding systems, HEPA dust extractors, and eco-friendly strippers to remove paint quickly without damaging walls.
They also handle:
- Lead paint removal and encapsulation
- Heritage and decorative wall restoration
- External paint stripping for brick and render
If you're repainting a large property or preparing a heritage facade, this option saves time and ensures compliance with safety regulations.
Step 5: Clean and Repair the Surface
Once the old paint is gone, the wall often looks patchy or uneven. Don't worry, this is normal.
Follow these steps:
- Wash the wall with mild detergent and rinse with clean water.
- Fill any cracks or holes using Dulux Acratex Patch & Prep or a ready-made filler.
- Let it dry completely (overnight if possible).
- Sand lightly to even out repaired areas.
- Wipe off dust with a clean damp cloth.
This prep step is crucial before applying any new primer or topcoat.
Step 6: Apply Primer (Optional but Recommended)
A good primer seals the wall and helps your new paint stick better.
If you've exposed bare plaster or repaired sections, use a sealing primer like Dulux PRECISION Sealer Binder or Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3.
Let it dry completely before painting.
Skipping this step often leads to uneven sheen and patchy colour later.
Mistakes when remove the old paint from walls
- Rushing: Not allowing the wall to dry properly before painting.
- Using wrong grit sandpaper: Too coarse can damage walls, too fine won’t remove enough paint.
- Ignoring ventilation: Especially with solvents or strippers.
- Painting over dust: Always clean before painting.
- Not checking for lead paint: This one can be dangerous.
If you're unsure, get a quote from a professional painting service in Sydney. They can inspect your walls and recommend the safest approach.
Eco-Friendly Paint Removal Options
Australians are becoming more environmentally conscious, and paint removal methods have evolved too.
Some green alternatives for removing an old paint include:
- Soy-based strippers (like Franmar Blue Bear) that are biodegradable and low-odour.
- Infrared paint removers that soften paint without open flames or chemicals.
- Dustless sanding systems that capture paint particles safely.
At Painters Link, we're committed to using sustainable, low-VOC solutions where possible, especially in family homes and schools.
When to Call a Professional for removing old paints from wall
DIY is fine for small jobs, but it's best to call in the pros when:
- The paint is lead-based or over asbestos sheeting.
- You’re removing paint from large surfaces (e.g. exterior walls).
- The wall has heritage value or decorative mouldings, heritage building repainting.
- You need to repaint commercial or strata repainting properties.
Professional painters don't just remove paint, they prepare your walls for a long-lasting, flawless finish. That's what makes the difference between an okay job and an excellent one.
In the meantime, if you're based in Eastern suburbs, you can be in touch with us. We have eastern suburb painters to remove the old paints professionally.
Case study for removing old paint from wall
Case Study 1: Lead Paint Removal in a Federation Home (Balmain, NSW)
A homeowner in Balmain wanted to restore their 1920s Federation house. During prep, our team discovered layers of lead paint under the flaking topcoat. We sealed off the area, used HEPA vacuum-assisted sanding systems, and applied Dulux Professional Envirosolutions Remover to strip paint safely.
After priming with Dulux Acraprime 501/1, we repainted the interiors in soft neutral tones. The result, a safer, fresher home with a beautiful heritage finish.
Case Study 2: Peeling Wall Paint in a Sydney Apartment
A tenant in Parramatta noticed bubbling paint near the bathroom wall. Before repainting, we used a heat gun to remove the plaster, patched the wall, and applied a moisture-resistant primer. The finish stayed smooth for years, no more bubbling.
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Case Study 3: Exterior Paint Removal on Rendered Walls (Northern Beaches)
In coastal suburbs like Manly and Dee Why, salty air can cause exterior paint to deteriorate quickly. Our crew used an eco-friendly paint remover and pressure washer to strip the old paint, then sealed the surface with Dulux Acratex RenderPrime before repainting. The new coating resisted salt damage and kept the facade looking fresh even after several summers.
FAQs About Removing Old Paint from Walls
Final Thoughts
Removing old paint from walls might seem like a messy job, but it's worth every bit of effort. It’s the difference between a temporary cover-up and a long-lasting transformation.
If you're after professional results without the fuss, Painters Link offers professional painting services across Sydney, from old paint removal to complete repaints for residential, strata, and commercial projects.
Clean walls, smooth finish, and a coat that lasts, that's what every Sydney home deserves.
