The Best Paint Scrapers of 2023 - Review by Old House Journal (2024)

We understand that paint scraping can be tiring and fun at the same time. If you end up buying the wrong tool, you may feel like smashing your head against the wall. However, with the right paint scrapers in hand, even heavy duty jobs can be easy and prove to be a fun activity. Are you looking for ways to remove that old paint? There is no need to look any further. The detailed buying guide for the top paint scrapers is here.

What Are the Different Types of Scrapers Available in the Market?

Today’s paint scrapers come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Basic paint scraper

A basic paint scraper is a convenient tool that consists of a flat blade linked to a wooden, plastic, or metal handle. It’s available in a range of sizes and forms, with a common one being the manual paint scraper. Paint scrapers in the shapes of triangles, ovals, and rectangles are examples.

Paint scraper with a single edge

Since you must angle the tool to scrape off the paint, every basic paint scraper is single-edged.

Double edge paint scraper

When you need to scrape off big sections of paint at once, a double edge paint scraper is appropriate. They are suggested for beginners.

Scrapers with hooks

When it comes to difficult-to-remove paint, hook scrapers are the way to go.

Scraper with blades

The blade scraper has many blades that may be removed and replaced as needed. Razorblade scrapers constructed of metal or plastic blade scrapers can be used. Scrapers with plastic blades are useful for delicate surfaces.

If you’re scraping paint off of the natural wood siding on your house, check out this video from Tribble Painting Company for a start-to-finish tutorial:

Which Features To Look For in the Best Paint Scraper?

Handle of the paint scraper

Pay attention to the paint scraper’s handle while determining which one to purchase. A hardwood handle is seen on the greatest paint scrapers. This is due to the fact that paint scrapers with wooden handles are stiffer than those with plastic handles. In addition, they are comfier to grasp than metal handles.

Material

The paint scraper’s quality is determined by the material used in its production. Stainless steel blades are used in some of the top paint scrapers because they are long-lasting and don’t corrode quickly. Carbon steel is also a fantastic option because it is durable. Some paint scrapers utilize softer materials, like plastic. These can even help you out with other jobs, like scraping off a car decal while maintaining the integrity of the metal or glass underneath.

Paint scraper size and shape

The size and design of the paint scraper’s blade will also influence your purchasing choices. Choose paint scrapers with big blades for huge walls that need to be painted quickly. Narrow blades are suitable for little jobs or places that are difficult to reach. Also, give focus to the paint scraper’s shape. The shape will influence how quickly you complete the task. For corners, cabinets, and crown molding, use curved blade scrapers.

What Will Be the Cost of the Paint Scraper?

The price of the paint scraper is also an important consideration when making a purchase. Your purchasing power is determined by the price of the paint scraper and your budget. Always invest in a high-quality paint scraper. Paint scrapers with wooden handles are recommended because they are more pleasant and durable. A paint scraper will cost you at least $13.99 on average.

What Are the Tips for Choosing the Best Paint Scrapers?

The tips below will assist you in selecting the finest paint scraper.

Easy to hold

If the handle’s diameter is too large for your little hands, you may have to continually adjust the handle between your palms. Similarly, if the diameter is tiny, you will continue to lose hold of the handle on your palms.

Solid grip

Having the proper handle diameter fixes your problem to a large extent. It eliminates the need to re-adjust the handle after each usage. The material used to make the handle, on the other hand, is crucial. Especially if the job is going to take a long time and you don’t want to hurt your hand. A strong, lightweight black polypropylene handle is a good option to go with.

The blade type

When someone states carbide is superior to high-speed steel (HSS) blade, they are arguably correct. Its longevity is the cause behind this. Carbide scraper edges endure 20 to 50 times longer than HSS scraper edges. Furthermore, obtaining the necessary equipment to sharpen and polish carbide scraper blades is not a costly process. However, if you just use a scraper once in a while, steel blades are the ideal option since they are more flexible and rust-resistant.

The Best Paint Scrapers of 2023 - Review by Old House Journal (2024)

FAQs

What is the best tool to scrape paint with? ›

Putty knife: While a putty knife is designed for using wood filler or joint compound, its blunt end makes it ideal for scraping paint while reducing the chance of gouging the surface.

Do paint scrapers get dull? ›

If you're shaving wood with a paint scraper and it's leaving powdery wood shavings behind, the tool needs sharpening.

When to use a carbide scraper? ›

For removing stubborn built-up finishes, a tough, professional-quality carbide scraper is your best bet. If you live in an old house, the chances are good that you'll eventually have to scrape built-up paint or debris off of something.

Is it better to pressure wash or scrape paint? ›

For small projects like paint scraping for a one-story home, pressure washing is a better option than doing the work by hand. It's less abrasive to surfaces like wood, brick patios, concrete, and masonry.

Do you have to sand after scraping paint? ›

Do I need to sand after scraping? If you've done a good job of scraping away loose chips, most people will not be able to detect the edges of pre-existing paint on the surfaces. Certainly, various wood has unique qualities, but overall, you should not need to sand your exterior prior to painting.

When should you stop scraping paint? ›

As a rule of thumb, you can stop scraping when the surface is no longer flaking. Remember, the paint must bond to the surface, and if that surface is loose and flaky, then the new paint has nothing to cling to. Be sure the surface is clear of loose paint chips and debris to get the best adhesion.

What is a tungsten scraper used for? ›

Designed to remove carbon on exhaust systems, burned corrosion on brakes, corroded gaskets on cylinder heads, varnish, glue, metal buildup and etc.

Can you sharpen carbide paint scraper blades? ›

Diamond sharpening tools are easy and cheap to get thee days. W&D paper on a flat surface is good for sharpening a lot of things, I find it nice for the final polished edge. If it's a Harris carbide scraper, you might find you can use blades from an electric planer cut in half? Cut them with a dremel.

Does vinegar remove paint? ›

Yes, it will. In fact, you can substitute vinegar for baking soda and achieve similar results. Best Used For: Small items like door hinges, tools that accidentally got paint on them, etc.

What is the best solvent to remove old paint? ›

You can use mineral spirits to remove paint, clean paint brushes and thin varnish and oil-based paints. Its liquid and vapor are flammable. Turpentine: Derived from tree resin, this organic solvent is often used by artists to thin and remove paint.

How to scrape paint off without a scraper? ›

Use Sandpaper

Sandpaper and power sanders provide another quick way to remove old paint from wood. It's an efficient method for flat surfaces but must be done carefully to avoid wood damage. Always sand with the grain of the wood.

What can I use as a paint scraper? ›

Razor Blade Scrapers and Utility Knives

A utility knife with a razor blade will remove paint, but it only removes a little bit at a time, requires precise control over the tool, and you need to exercise great care and caution so you don't damage the material you work with.

What makes scraping paint easier? ›

Use a Heat Gun

Heated air from the tool is directed onto the painted surface. This causes the paint to loosen, blister and bubble from the wood, making it easy to remove with a metal scraper. Heat guns are also effective at taking off varnish and other finishes.

What is the best power tool to remove paint? ›

Whether you're a Professional or a Do-It-Yourselfer, the Paintshaver® Pro is the fastest, cleanest, most economical tool for stripping all coatings (including lead paint) from clapboards, shingles, shakes, flat trim, flat windows, flat doors and all other flat wood, concrete, steel and fiberglass surfaces.

Do you have to scrape all the paint off before painting? ›

Removing old paint isn't always necessary when you're repainting a room. For instance, if the old paint job was relatively recent and is in good condition, removing it usually isn't necessary. Old paint becomes a problem when it's chipped, peeling, or cracked in places or if it's a texture you don't want.

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