That 1 Painter is the fastest-growing painting company in the world. Painting your house can be complicated, but with our expertise, we make the process easy and stress-free for homeowners. With locations across the nation, we have helped tens of thousands of homeowners make the best choices for their homes without sacrificing quality, and we are here to show you how.
You’re ready to repaint
but first, you’ve got to deal with what’s already on the surface.
Old paint can be stubborn.
Sometimes it flakes right off.
Other times, it clings on like it’s never letting go.
So what’s the best way to remove it?
It depends on the surface, the condition of the paint,
and where you’re working.
For smaller areas or interior walls,
you can usually keep it simple.
• Sandpaper
Great for smoothing rough spots or removing light layers
• Paint scraper
Perfect for peeling edges and flaking paint
• Chemical stripper
Useful for thick, stubborn layers
Just be careful — they’re strong and require good ventilation
• Pressure washer
Best for exterior surfaces like siding or fences
Helps blast off loose paint quickly
A quick note on safety:
Old paint, especially really old paint, can release harmful dust
so always wear a mask and goggles
and check for lead-based paint if the home is older.
Sometimes, calling in a pro is the smartest move.
They’ll have the tools, know-how, and gear to do it safely.
So, what’s the best way to remove old paint?
Start simple with sandpaper or a scraper
Only move to chemicals or pressure washing if you really need to
And always protect yourself during the process
Still not sure what you’re working with? Call That 1 Painter
We’re happy to take a look and walk you through the next step.