How do I remove a line of heavy paint buildup on my wall?

Question

It looks like someone painted around 'frames' of wood they build on the wall to simulate wainscoating, and left a heavy line of paint on the wall all around each 'panel of waincoating'. I tried a putty knife, but it's really tough and there's a lot as I have removed all the fake panels and I want to get back to a flat wall. Any thoughts?

Janet Pizaro · Answer

Maybe try a Heat Gun or if this not possible soak the areas a little at a time with white vinegar. I read a while ago it acts as a stripper so to speak.

MN Mom · Answer

You could try sanding it. For sure sanding will get you a smoother surface.

Dee · Answer

Thanks!

MN Mom · Answer

You are welcome!

Sophie Breau · Answer

You may need a palm sander, old paint will require more than just elbow grease. If the lines still show, use a metal putty knife to scrape the lines off, then putty the areas where you may rip though the paper coat of the drywall. Good luck!

Julie Arteaga · Answer

Light sanding with fine sandpaper

Patricia · Answer

I was told, never have done it. But apparently acrylic paint canbe removed with very hot water. Like a steamer. It might soften the paint so that you can scrap it. Hope this helps.

Dee · Answer

Thank you, sound logical!

Dee · Answer

Thanks to all!

Redcatcec · Answer

I would go with the palm sander, the hot water might take the layers of paint down too far and you'll have unevenness in the layers of the paint.

Mogie · Answer

I would sand it down that way you can control exactly how much is removed.

Mogie · Answer

If have to deal with this but on my closet doors. I plan to sand them soothe and then repaint them.

Ann|The Apple Street Cottage · Answer

Strip off as much paint as you can with a chemical stripper - Citristrip. Then you can sand without 'gumming up' the sandpaper.

How do I remove a line of heavy paint buildup on my wall?

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How do I remove a line of heavy paint buildup on my wall?

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