Application Guide

Apply a thick, even layer of stripper onto the coating being removed. An airless sprayer is the most effective means of application. Always start the sprayer pump at the lowest pressure setting and slowly build up the pressure until an adequate fan pattern has been generated. High pressure and narrow tip sizes will break the stripper's emulsion and destroy its effectiveness.

The stripper must be applied 1.5 to 2 times the thickness of the removed coating, i.e. 20 mils of coating require 30-40 mils of stripper to be removed effectively. When trying to build up films thicker than 30 mils (600 microns) or applying the stripper on a glossy or greasy vertical surface, it is advisable to build the stripper film in two separate applications.

First, apply a light coat of approximately 15 mils (300 microns), thick enough to hide the surface colour of the coating and allow it to dwell for 5 to 30 minutes and then build the rest of the stripper film thickness in a second application.

Once applied, leave the stripper alone, as agitation slows down penetration. If using a brush, ensure the underlying surface is completely covered with EcoSafe Strip High-Performance Paint Stripper.

Re-Application

When there are multiple layers of paint, there may be poor inter-coat adhesion between some layers. Premature lifting may occur at this interface. If this happens, remove the lifted layers and reapply the stripper. Do not rinse with water between applications. Do not allow the stripper to dry out. The stripper is designed to remain wet and effective over extended periods (up to 48 hours), but excessive sunshine, windy conditions or insufficient stripper thickness can cause early drying. If the stripper starts to dry, reapply a light coating and allow extra time for completion.

Dwell Time

The time required for penetration varies according to the type of paint, the thickness of the paint, and the temperature. Most paint systems require between 2 to 36 hours. EcoSafe Strip High-Performance Paint Stripper can be left overnight, but do not allow it to dry out.

Coverage

Coverage is approximately 1 to 2.2 sq.m./L depending on the substrate and coating to be removed.

Optimum Temperature

Surface temperatures should be 20° to 32°C. The product performs effectively at lower temperatures - even at 0°C, but the dwell time increases.

Removal & Clean Up

Lifting paint removal can be completed by a scraper, squeegee, wet/dry vacuum suction system, or high-pressure (2,500 - 3,500 psi) water wash. Be careful if using a high-pressure washer on porous surfaces, as it may harm the surface. Pressure wash from the bottom up on vertical surfaces to prevent rinse water from deactivating the stripper in the sections below. The stripped surface must be rinsed with water to remove all chemical residue before repainting.

Collect lifted paint and place it in plastic containers. Add EcoSafe Strip Ecozorb to absorb the remaining liquids and dispose of them following local government regulations. Do not collect and/or store removed paint and stripper waste residue in metal containers. Clean up spray equipment by running water through the equipment soon after the spraying has been completed.