Polycrylic tends to be one hell of a stubborn kind of finish! They’re so hard to get rid of through conventional removal methods. Even if we do manage to get them removed, we may still face some mishaps.
Worst of all, the removal process could do some damages to the wood! So you must know how to get it done.
So, how to remove Polycrylic?
We could remove them by sanding but it’s a work of great hassle. Acetone and other such solvents do work on most finishes pretty good. But, they can be disastrous on Polycrylic! However, chemical strippers work very well in removing Polycrylic. You can get them removed in 5 steps.
Wanna know the whole process? Then dive in and learn some additional tips as well along with the whole process!
SKIP AHEAD
Which Medium Should You Choose To Remove Polycrylic?
Sanding is the most traditional method of removal of finishers from any wood surface. It’s a process that can remove almost any sort of finisher.
Now the question is, can sanding remove Polycrylic?
The answer is, it can. But it imposes a lot of limitations. A 200 to 320 grit sandpaper is a must in this case. And, this process will take a very long time and loads of your valuable energy.
Now, coming to solvents. The Polycrylic does not come off completely. No matter for how long you keep rubbing the solvent over it. Over-rubbing it may even damage the wood surface.
Now, which one is really the best option?
Hands down, Chemical strippers!
This method of removal is not usually done for other finishers. However, it’s a go-to removal process for Polycrylic. Also, they’re not damaging to the wood.
It’s also very hazardous and can impose some damage to the environment if not handled properly. You should also choose the right type of stripper. That depends on the condition in which you’ll be working.
Every chemical strippers contain a harsh, corrosive chemical called methylene chloride. This can cause serious damage if it comes in contact with our eyes or skin. Its gases should not be inhaled or our respiratory system could be damaged.
Hence, it’s not environmentally friendly as well.
As a result, we must take the right precautionary materials. We should also carry out the experiment in a well-ventilated room. If such conditions can be made available, go for the chemical strippers containing methylene chloride.
However, over the years, some modern versions of chemical strippers can be found.
In that case, buy the water-based chemical strippers then! We just have to work for much longer hours with water-based strippers.
Are you concerned about the harmful effects it can have on the environment? You could get the soy-based or ecological ones. However, these ones tend to be less volatile.
5 Step Process on How To Remove Policrylic From Wood
So, in this segment, we’ve designed the whole process step-by-step. We’ve also listed the materials that we will need. So, get ready!
Materials You’d Need
- Mask (preferably KN95)
- Goggles
- Rubber gloves
- Lab coat
- Steel wool
- Scraper
- Chemical stripper
- Brush/Spray applicator
- Waxed paper state (optional)
Once you’ve gathered all your belongings, it’s time to work!
Step 1 of 5: Prepare The Work Area
Make sure to choose a room that is well ventilated. The room should be airy.
Before you begin, turn on the fan. Just ensure the temperature of the room is either not too hot or too cold. don’t sit under direct sunlight. And try to avoid working in the basement.
Then, place a towel under the furniture we’d be removing Polycrylic from to prevent leaving stains.
Step 2 f o5: Apply The Chemical Stripper
We could either use a brush or a spray to coat the chemical stripper. However, do it over a small area of the wood surface. And make sure to use a good quality spray.
If you don’t know what to look for. Here are our top picks-
Leave the solvent over for about 15 minutes. We could cover the surface with a waxed paper state if the room is not ventilated enough.
Step 3 of 5: Scrape Off Polycrylic
Using the side blade of the scraper, scrape off the Polycrylic with care. Continue scraping as long a full layer of Polycrylic is removed from the wood surface. Place the removed layers in a disposable bag or rag.
Paint over the chemical stripper again if there’s any residual Polycrylic to be removed.
Make sure not to sand between each application.
Step 4 of 5: Get Into The Details
Remove Polycrylic from the fine cracks or designs of the wood by scraping it with steel wool.
Pro tip: Before going in with the steel wool remove as much of the Polycrylic from the surface.
Sand the surface after all the Polycrylic is removed. And it’s ready to be repainted!
Step 5 of 5: Safely Dispose Of Chemical Stripper
Did we mention earlier that chemical strippers are highly flammable as well?
So, to avoid fires. Get rid of the disposables by soaking all of them in a bucket of water. Leave them overnight. Then strain off the water in a landfill.
Don’t dispose of the wastes in a trash bin!
And that’s it. You’re all done.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Does acetone remove Polycrylic?
Answer: Yes they do. But, they don’t work as well as chemical strippers do. Acetone tends to leave off some stains over the wood.
Question: Can you sand Polycrylic off?
Answer: Yes. But sanding a Polycrylic off is a very labor-intensive job. It can take lots of time and energy. It would also be difficult to sand off from the fine and detailed designs of the wood. However, it is true that the process is simple and harmless.
Question: Does vinegar remove polyurethane?
Answer: Vinegar is a hard kind of finish. And vinegar is acidic. So yes, vinegar can help scrape off the polyurethane. However, we should try to use white vinegar that is diluted in water.
Wrapping Up
Yes, Polycrylics are stubborn. Now we’ve gained all knowledge about how to remove Polycrylic. So, can be even more stubborn!
Hope you have a great experience. And make sure to stay safe through the process! Let us know how it goes!
Good luck!
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