Stripping Edwardian Sash Window

[SwingsitlikeHogan]

Renovating a sash window in our Edwardian house - paint has been stripped back but there is a hard white coating/layer on the timber that paint stripper doesn't seem to work on. What is it? And how do I strip it off? Any suggestions most welcome.

 

[LIG]

Renovating a sash window in our Edwardian house - paint has been stripped back but there is a hard white coating/layer on the timber that paint stripper doesn't seem to work on. What is it? And how do I strip it off? Any suggestions most welcome.

Are you sure its timber?

I've seen a window that's been repaired after damage caused by a burglar. A white, resin-like substance which bonds to the wood. But this is only in 'patches' not over all, as its an expensive substance.

 

[Rooter]

would suggest if its smooth and not coming off, go ahead and undercoat!

 

[SwingsitlikeHogan]

Are you sure its timber?

I've seen a window that's been repaired after damage caused by a burglar. A white, resin-like substance which bonds to the wood. But this is only in 'patches' not over all, as its an expensive substance.

I can chip it off and yes there is wood below The window will not have been stripped back to the wood since the house was built 100yrs ago. I'm guessing it might be some form of base they used back then before primer came along.

 

[SwingsitlikeHogan]

would suggest if its smooth and not coming off, go ahead and undercoat!

Unfortunately small areas have 'chipped' off so would have to do a bit of filling. Would rather get the window back to the wood if possible.

 

[richart]

You need to be careful stripping old paint. Paint from the 60's and before can have lead it in which can be harmful especially if burnt off. The white bits sound like old filler which used to be like concrete, not the flexible stuff used now, a primer, or a knot treatment.

Remember to treat all the knots if you go back to bare wood. I stripped all our wooden doors and windows on our 1850's Victorian house. It took forever, but the finish is now so much better. The paint also keeps its white colour, and doesn't go creamy now.