Best Heat Gun for Paint Stripping: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Restoration Specialist
Stripping paint is arguably the most tedious job in the trade, but it's the foundation of a good finish. In York's older properties, we often encounter windows and doors with ten or more layers of gloss, hiding the beautiful softwood or hardwood details underneath.
Whilst chemical strippers have their place, a decent heat gun is often the most efficient way to lift thick coats of paint. However, choose the wrong one, and you risk scorching the timber, cracking the glass, or burning out the motor halfway through the job.
In this review, I've selected three heat guns that cover different needs: a budget-friendly option for quick DIY tasks, a reliable branded workhorse for larger projects, and a mini precision tool perfect for delicate glazing bars.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Temperature Claims (600°C+)"
"Higher temperatures strip paint faster."
Maximum heat often scorches timber before the paint bubbles properly. For wood restoration, I rarely go above 450°C. Control is far more important than raw heat.
The Spec: "Paint Removal Speed"
"The box says it strips paint in seconds."
It takes patience. You need to heat the paint just enough to soften the bond without turning it into a gooey mess or releasing dangerous fumes—especially with pre-1970s lead paint.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Huepar Tools Heat Gun, Professional Hot Air Gun Kit Dual Temperature
Huepar Tools
If you just need to strip one windowsill or free up a stuck sash, this Huepar unit offers incredible value. It heats up quickly and includes four nozzles, making it versatile enough for general DIY tasks without breaking the bank.
The Good
- Excellent price point for the features included
- Includes 4 nozzles (deflector nozzle is essential for windows)
- Flat-back design allows it to stand upright for cooling
The Bad
- Build quality feels less robust than trade brands
- Temperature control is basic (only two settings)
- Cable could be longer for working at height
Installer Tip:
Use the 'flat-back' feature often. When you pause to scrape, stand the gun upright. This prevents the hot nozzle from burning your bench or carpet and helps the element cool down properly, extending the tool's life.
Priced at £16.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonBLACK+DECKER 1750W Heat Gun, KX1650-GB
BLACK+DECKER
Black+Decker is a staple in many toolkits for a reason. This no-nonsense heat gun focuses on reliability over fancy gadgets. The 1750W motor delivers consistent heat without fluctuating, which is crucial when you're working on expensive hardwood joinery.
The Good
- Robust motor suitable for longer sessions
- Consistent airflow and heat maintenance
- Durable casing can take a few knocks on site
The Bad
- Lack of variable temperature dial (just a toggle)
- Does not come with a wide range of accessories/scrapers
Installer Tip:
When stripping sash windows, I favour this gun's steady airflow. However, be careful near the glass. Always use a glass protection shield (or a wide filling knife held against the glass) to deflect heat, otherwise, the thermal shock will crack your detailed Victorian glazing.
Priced at £22.98 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonMini Heat Gun, Huepar Tools 500W Hot Air Gun
Huepar Tools
Standard heat guns are often too aggressive for delicate tasks like stripping narrow glazing bars or beading. This mini 500W unit is the perfect problem-solver. It allows for precision heating without risking the surrounding glass or delicate mouldings.
The Good
- Perfect for intricate glazing bars (muntins)
- Much lighter than a standard gun, reducing wrist fatigue
- Lower airflow reduces risk of blowing dust onto wet paint nearby
The Bad
- Not powerful enough for stripping large flat surfaces (doors/frames)
- Smaller handle might feel odd for those with large hands
Installer Tip:
I keep this in my bag specifically for the corners of sash windows. Standard guns can be clumsy in tight corners, often burning the timber profile. This mini gun lets you soften the paint in the quirk of the moulding without ruining the sharp edges.
Priced at £19.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Heat gun vs Chemical stripper: Which is better for sash windows?
How do I stop the glass from cracking when stripping window paint?
Is it safe to strip old paint in Victorian houses?
What tools should I use alongside a heat gun?
Do I need professional help for sash window restoration?
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