technical manu al table of contents - Jamestown Distributors

Question:
What is the best way to remove old finish?
Answer:
There is no right way or wrong way to strip varnish. Whatever works for you, is the best
way. Our recommendations are based on our own experiences and preferences.
First, begin with a good (6 or more. You can't have too many) selection of scrapers. Go
nuts, experiment with a variety of styles, brands, and shapes. These should be treated
as tools. That is what they are. Learn how to sharpen them. We cannot emphasize
enough the value of a sharp scraper. Books should be written on this subject. If you want
to know more, ask us.
Next, experiment with stripping methods. There are a vast number of chemicals out
there to choose from. We do not use chemicals. We have tried most of them and have
always returned to a heat (hot air) gun and sharp scrapers. This method is by far the
least messy and most effective for us. However, having said this, try different methods.
You may discover a combination that works better for you. That is o.k. On the subject of
heat guns, we have tried them all from the most expensive at $140.00 to a $25.00 Black
& Decker. We use the Black & Decker exclusively. Why? It is a fraction of the weight and
produces the same thing. Hot air!
Once you have determined the method that works best for you and your boat, get
organized. Establish a sharpening area, lay out your tools, clean your space, put on your
favorite music and begin. Start at one end and work your way to the other. This sounds
basic but avoid the tendency to jump form here to there. You will have better success if
you approach the job logically and orderly.
You may find that stripping is a two-stage process. Strip off the bulk of the varnish first
time around then, hit it a second time removing the residue and bringing the wood back
to fresh. This is o.k. too. Scrapers remove more material easier and faster than
sandpaper. Stay with them until the job is done. If you find that your scrapers do not
work on a particularly tight spot, make one that does. With an old file and a grinder, one
can make an excellent specialized scraper.
Deck seams. The old caulk, and it may be very old, very hard putty, needs to be
removed. Do not try to save this. You will not be able to and still retain the integrity
between the caulking and the seam edges. Again, a heat gun works best. Make a
gouging tool that fits your seam width. Take your time and be careful! Do not lie awake