How can you remove dried latex paint or primer from hard surfaces?

Bonzo_do

Hey, This is Mike with The Home Depot in California. I would take several approaches.

First, on the hard surfaces, such as concrete and stone, I would try to scrape away as much as possible using a scraper or stiff putty knife. On wood such as a deck, try a plastic putty knife or plastic abrasive cleaner such as scotch-brite. Being careful not to damage the surface.

Next, I would try a water based paint remover. This product will help remove the paint without damaging the surface. One product we sell is called Lift Off. It can be used indoors or out. This product is safe even for clothing. I have included a link below with more information.

Finally if all else fails, you can try power washing the surface, or on stone or concrete, sand blasting the surface. Check out the links below for information on a good sandblaster, and power washer.

I hope this helps solve your problem.

Mike, The Home Depot Answer Man

http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1vZ1xhc/R-10011...

http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1vZ1xhc/R-10063...

http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1vZ1xhc/R-10066...

I'm not a painter, myself, but my sister owned rental property a few years back & learned to to use some kind of sizing that she used a sponge to put on - I think. I also used to work with a painter, many years ago, & I think he had a way of putting something on over the oil based paint to make the latex adhere. I'm not sure if its called sizing, or some kind of primer, or what. I think he used to rough up the oil-based paint with sandpaper first, then put this stuff on with a paint roller, let it dry overnight, then use the latex - but I'm not positive. Why not just call a Sherwin-Williams or other paint store & ask - "What would I need to do if I want to use latex paint on a wall that previously had oil-based paint on it?" That way, someone who really knows something about paint can answer your question & if you don't want them to know who you are, or buy anything from them, you won't have to. (Although if it were me & they told me a way that by spending another $20 on a product or 2 I could use the $60 worth of paint I'd already bought - I'd give them my business for the $20 now & in the future.) Good luck!!

use some alcohol, not jack Daniels or bud wiser. more like rubbing alcohol and ethanol. if you can get the film remover it works wonders. just pour some on the plaint let it sit for a couple min. and then scrub. (it may take a few tries) super clean works too but you'll have to let it sit longer.

Keep it wet with plain water, and scrub it out with a scrub brush or hose.