Many finishes require specific methods for removal. Epoxy paint, polyurethane and shellac all have their own peculiarities which require specific tools to remove. We've outlined the most common finishes along with our recommended method of removing them. You'll most likely need to use a combination of these techniques to completely remove your finish and will always be required to sand your finish before moving on to staining or protecting.
Paint: Paint is easy to identify. Both oil-based and latex paints can be removed with heat strippers, chemical strippers, scraping or sanding. Important safety note: If you think the piece was painted before the mid-1970s, you should use a lead-testing kit to determine if lead paint is present. If you find lead, don't attempt to refinish it yourself. Take it to a professional refinisher instead.
Epoxy paint: Epoxy paint is thick and cannot be scraped off. There is no easy way out with epoxy paint. This very strong and stubborn finish must be sanded off.
Polyurethane: A chemical stripper is best for removing polyurethane. This surface can't be recoated or repaired, but must always be stripped off completely.
Oil finish: Oil finish has a natural look and is often tinted with stain. Usually mineral spirits will dissolve oil, but any stain will have to be sanded out.
Shellac: For the record, shellac isn't made out of bugs but from bug secretions. When it ages, it tends to get an alligator-like finish. The finish was very common in furniture made before 1930 and is still used today. To test a surface, dab on denatured alcohol and wipe it off right away. If it dissolves, you have shellac.
Lacquer: This very hard finish is brittle and will fracture when it's exposed to extreme cold. You can test the surface by applying a dab of lacquer thinner. If you see finish residue on your application rag, you have a lacquer finish.
