When it comes to exterior painting in Portland, proper sanding and removal of old paint and stain is absolutely critical – not just for looks, but for durability. If we don’t address bubbling paint, peeling finishes, or tired old stain properly, no amount of high-end paint will last. So let’s answer some of our most frequently asked questions about exactly how we prep your exterior surfaces to ensure your new paint job goes on smooth and stays beautiful for years to come.
"Can You Strip Old Stain from My Wood Shingles or Siding?"
Yes, and we do it the right way. Whether it’s cedar shingles or vertical wood siding, old stain can wear unevenly and absorb moisture in unpredictable ways. If you’re dealing with grayed-out wood or patchy stain, we’ll evaluate how much of the stain needs to be removed based on your goals and the condition of the wood.
Sometimes, a thorough cleaning is enough to prep the surface for a fresh coat. But when complete removal is necessary, we’ll use a combination of sanding, scraping, and in some cases chemical strippers. Our goal is always to respect the wood while getting it ready for a durable new finish.
"Can You Strip Old Paint?"
We can, and we often do. Removing old exterior paint is a common part of our prep process, especially when the existing paint is peeling, flaking, or bubbling. It’s important to note that we don’t indiscriminately strip everything off unless it’s necessary. Instead, we remove what’s loose or unstable and create a solid foundation for the new primer and paint.
The tools we use range from carbide blade scrapers and orbital sanders to Festool HEPA sanding systems that control dust and help us work clean.
"How Do You Deal with Bubbling and Peeling Paint?"
Bubbling and peeling paint isn’t just unsightly – it’s a sign of failure underneath. It could mean moisture intrusion, poor previous prep, or cheap paint that didn’t adhere properly. At Pearl Painters, we don’t just paint over the problem.
We scrape off anything loose or failing. Once we’re down to a solid base, we feather sand the edges to smooth the transition between bare substrate and old paint. We then apply specialized primers to seal bare areas and ensure adhesion.
"What Will You Sand?"
In short: everything that needs it.
Peeling or bubbling paint areas – to remove failures and create a solid foundation for primer and paint top coats.
Exposed wood – to open up the grain and promote better absorption of primer or stain.
High-touch areas – doors, railings, trim and where wear and tear is most visible.
"How Will You Sand?"
We use a variety of methods based on the material, condition, and location:
Hand sanding for precision spots and delicate trim.
Orbital and rotary sanders with vacuum attachments for smooth broad surfaces.
HEPA filter-equipped sanding systems to contain dust, especially when inside your home.
Festool sanders for high-performance, dust-free prep.
Detail sanders for getting into tricky corners, grooves, and ornate trim.
Every surface gets what it needs. The result? A perfectly prepped surface that’s ready for a finish that lasts.
"Can You Strip the Old Finish from My Wood Front Door?"
Absolutely. Front doors are a focal point of your home, and if you’ve got an older wood door that’s seen better days, we know how to bring it back to life.
Stripping a front door is meticulous work. We start by carefully removing the hardware and then assessing whether the finish is oil-based, water-based, or polyurethane. From there, we choose the best removal technique:
Chemical stripping for heavy layers of old finish.
Heat guns in specific scenarios (used carefully to avoid damaging the wood).
Sanding to clean up and smooth the surface once the bulk of the finish is removed.
After that, we apply stain or paint, depending on your preference, and follow it with a durable clear coat that can stand up to the elements.
Why It All Matters
It’s tempting to think that prep is just the “boring” part of painting. But skipping or rushing through sanding and removal is the number one reason exterior paint jobs fail prematurely. That’s why at Pearl Painters, we put so much emphasis on this phase of the project.
A well-prepped surface:
Holds paint better
Resists moisture intrusion
Looks smoother and more uniform
Lasts years longer
We’ve been doing this work in the Portland area for over 20 years. That means we know how to deal with the Pacific Northwest’s moisture, sun cycles, and seasonal weather shifts. Our prep techniques aren’t just about looks – they’re about longevity and protecting your home investment.
