Best Infrared Paint Remover & Alternatives: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Restoration Specialist
Restoring sash windows in older properties is a labour of love, but the stripping process can be a nightmare. In York's historic terraces, we often find windows with ten or more layers of paint, hiding the beautiful softwood or oak beneath.
The 'gold standard' for professional restoration is the infrared paint remover. Unlike aggressive heat guns which can scorch timber and crack glass, or torches which vaporise lead paint, infrared heat softens the paint at a lower temperature, making it peel away like a skin. However, it's not always the only tool you need.
In this review, I'll examine a dedicated infrared tool alongside two chemical alternatives. Whilst the infrared heater is superior for the main flat surfaces of a sash box, sometimes a chemical gel is necessary for the intricate scribing and corners where a heater simply can't reach.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Speed of Removal"
"Marketing often claims instant removal of all layers in one go."
On a 100-year-old sash window, infrared takes about 20-40 seconds of heating per section. It's faster than chemical mess, but slower than a blowtorch (though far safer for the timber and your lungs).
The Spec: "Glass Safety"
"Infrared is safer than heat guns near glass panes."
Whilst truer than with blowtorches, sudden thermal shock can still crack heritage glass. You must use a shield (or a piece of plywood) to protect the glazing while stripping the frame.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
JENOLITE Industrial Strength Paint Stripper Aerosol | Non-Drip Gel Formula | 400ml
JENOLITE
Whilst not an infrared tool, this aerosol stripper is an essential companion for the budget-conscious restorer. Infrared heaters struggle with the intricate internal corners of sash boxes; this spray gets right into those nooks without the initial investment of expensive hardware.
The Good
- Excellent for reaching deep corners where infrared tools can't fit
- Non-drip formula creates less mess on vertical sash stiles
- Cost-effective for small patch repairs or single windows
The Bad
- Strong odour - requires very good ventilation
- More expensive per litre than bulk buying liquid stripper
- Can require multiple applications for thick Victorian paint build-up
Installer Tip:
Use this specifically for the 'staff beads' and ornate moulding profiles. Strip the flat timber with heat, then use this spray for the detailed bits to avoid gouging the wood with a scraper.
Priced at £13.95 (at the time of writing)
Check Price on AmazonIR Paint Stripper Infrared Tool - Spengar DIY Home Decorating
Generic
This is the primary tool needed for serious restoration work. By using infrared waves rather than blown hot air, it heats the paint from the substrate up, minimising the risk of scorching the timber or vaporising dangerous lead paint dust. Ideally suited for the flat runs of sash boxes and sills.
The Good
- Significantly reduces dust and toxic fumes compared to sanding or heat guns
- Softens old rock-hard putty effectively for removal
- Preserves the timber face underneath, reducing sanding time later
The Bad
- Higher upfront cost than chemical strippers
- Requires care near glass (needs shielding)
- Can be heavy to hold for overhead work on top sashes
Installer Tip:
Don't force the scraper. Allow the infrared heat to do the work. Once you see the paint bubble or soften, use a pull-scraper with the grain. If resistance is felt, apply heat for another 10 seconds. Patience saves the timber.
Priced at £59.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonProfessional Paint Stripper Bundle for Wood and Metal
Decorator's Friend
If you are dealing with a mix of materials (metal ironmongery and wood) or need a cleanup solution after the bulk removal, this bundle is ideal. It includes the necessary tools and a non-caustic formula that is kinder to the environment than traditional solvents.
The Good
- Complete kit gets you started immediately without buying extra tools
- Non-caustic formula is safer for older, porous heritage brick or softwood
- Great for cleaning up residue left behind after infrared scraping
The Bad
- Slower action than infrared heat
- Can be messy to clean up the sludge residue
Installer Tip:
Use this kit for the window furniture (pulleys, lifts, and catches). Remove the metal hardware, soak them in a container with this stripper, and scrub them clean. It saves you from buying new ironmongery.
Priced at £26.84 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Is infrared paint removal safer for lead paint?
Can I use infrared strippers on window glazing putty?
Do I need to sand the wood after using an infrared remover?
How does infrared compare to chemical stripping for sash windows?
Why hire a professional for sash window restoration?
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