Are you planning to get rid of stubborn paint stains on your hardwood floors? Don't worry– we've got you covered.
It's essential to do whatever it takes to maintain hardwood's natural beauty and luster. Tiny paint drops may leave visible marks on the floor, affecting its visual appeal and value.
In this article, let's discuss the standard methods you can follow to remove paint stains from your wood floors. Who knows, it may save you the costs of hiring a specialist to do it for you!
Area Preparation
Before anything else, you will need to prepare the floor surface accordingly. Ensure the area is free from dirt, dust, and grit.
Before choosing a particular paint removal method, it's also essential to check if the paint stains are either oil or water-based.
Note: Oil-based paint will be harder to remove than acrylic. Some of the solvents you need may potentially damage your hardwood floor's finish in the process.
Ideally, it’s best to try other methods to remove paint from the wood before using harsh, commercial chemicals.
6 Methods in Removing Paint From Wood Floors
Method #1: Scrape Off Hardened Paint
Scraping off hardened water-based paint involves using a putty knife and some restraint. The key is to remove the hardened paint without damaging the wood floor surface.
In some cases, you may use a hammer to tap the putty knife to remove hard paint spots gently.
When dealing with dried oil-based paints, you may warm the spot with a hairdryer for no more than 20 seconds. The use of heat guns is strongly discouraged. These may only damage your hardwood floor's finish.
Method #2: Use of Mild Detergent
Mix a drop of dishwashing soap to a damp paper and wipe the stain well using a paper towel.
Give it a thorough rubbing for a few minutes before wiping out the stain with a dry rag. Doing so makes the paint stain easier to remove as the soapy water technically softens it.
Consider using a blunt knife to scratch the paint layer away gently.
Method #3: Use Commercial Paint Removers
Think of this method as a quick and easy way to remove stubborn dried paint off your wooden floors. Visit your local home improvement store to buy a paint remover and apply it to the dried paint.
You may need to let it soak for a couple of minutes for the solution to break down the paint effectively.
Method #4: Use Denatured Alcohol
If you’re dealing with old gloss paint on your hardwood floors, you may use alcohol to remove it. Wipe the stain with water mixed with denatured alcohol– and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
Once the paint absorbs enough alcohol and starts to break up, it will be easier to remove.
Method #5: Use an Alcohol-Based Cleansing Pad
Alcohol-based cleansing pads are readily accessible and convenient to use. You may scrub it over the paint stain and once it dries out, use a new cleansing pad to erase the paint from your wood floors.
Method #6: Use a Paint Thinner
Paint thinners should be your last resort in removing paint stains from your hardwood floors. When using a thinner on your floors, always work with caution as it may only damage or remove the finish.
If you're working indoors– ensure that the area will have proper ventilation at the very least.
Removing Paint on Your Wood Floors By Type
If you know the particular paint type you have on your wooden floors, here are some methods to try out at home.
How to Remove Latex Paint Stains
How to Remove Spray Paint
How to Remove Dried Paint
Pro Tip: Always be cautious when working with a heat gun to remove paint marks on your floors. If you’re not careful enough, it may leave visible scorch marks on the surface.
Not to mention, it may unwittingly start a fire. Ensure the heat gun will never come in direct contact with your floors.
How to Remove Paint from Laminate Wood Floors
Commercial Paint Removal Products
Though non-toxic cleaning solutions are gentle and less damaging to the floors, you may be left with no choice but to use chemical-based paint removal products in some cases.
For your reference, here’s a list of the most common paint removal agents in the market today.
Expert Tips and Advice in Removing Paint from Wood Floors
Final Thoughts
Fortunately, stubborn paint splatters on your wood floors do not last forever. Regardless of whether you’re dealing with latex paint stains or spray paint, there are different methods you can try to remove them from your wooden floors. (Related: Step By Step: How To White Wash Wood Floors)