4 Steps to Safely and Easily Strip Old Fiberglass Paint for Refinishing

Stripping paint from fiberglass can be a difficult process, but when done properly, the results are well worth the effort. To avoid damaged fiberglass and costly repairs, here are four tips to help you safely strip paint off of fiberglass:

1. Test in a small inconspicuous area. Before you expose the entire fiberglass surface to any paint stripping method, it’s important to test a small, inconspicuous area first. This can help you determine if the paint will strip easily and if the fiberglass will stay intact and unscathed.

2. Scrape away paint with a plastic scraper. Use a plastic scraper to carefully pry old paint away from the fiberglass. Since fiberglass absorbs paint well, several layers of old paint may need to be scraped away. Scrape away the paint at a slow but steady pace for the best results.

3. Use a fiberglass paint stripper. On the market, you can find a variety of fiberglass strippers from mild to highly potent, and it’s important to wear a respirator or the recommended protection when using strong strippers. Roll or brush the stripper onto the fiberglass and let it sit for the optimal time according to the product labels directions. Then use a plastic scraper to carefully remove the loosened paint. To finish, wipe down the surface with a rag dampened with denatured alcohol and rinse with plain water.

4. Gently sand away paint. If you plan on using a new coat of paint, sanding may be a good option. Use fine grit sandpaper to gently sand the paint away from the fiberglass. Take your time and sand patiently until the paint is be powder and rubbing the paint off is easy. Once the paint is gone, wipe down the surface with rag dampened with denatured alcohol and rinse with plain water. Allow the material to dry before applying a new coat of paint.

Whether you prefer to use paint strippers, baking soda or sandpaper to strip away paint from fiberglass, taking the proper precautions is important for protecting both the fiberglass and your personal health. On the plus side, when you take the time to do the job safely and effectively, you will have a beautifully finished fiberglass surface.