Remove paint from hinges on cabinet - DIY Chatroom

debpie · 11-05-2009, 12:12 PM

Problem: The people who owned the house before we did painted over the hinges on the bathroom cabinets. I cannot unscrew the hinges because of the paint. What can I use to get the paint off the hinges -- so I can get the hinges off the cabinets.

I much prefer to use something natural as I have allergies and try to avoid harsh chemicals.

I'd appreciate any suggestions.

Thank you.

ArmchairDIY · 11-05-2009, 12:53 PM

Use a small screwdriver or a knife tip to clean out the screws. Then remove the hinges and scrub them with a scotch brite pad. That is the least caustic method.

Option 2 would be to clean them carefully with Goof Off or lacquer thinner. Stinky, but effective.

sdsester · 11-05-2009, 01:34 PM

Assuming you plan to do something with the cabinets too? Use one of the new gel paint strippers. Otherwise, as suggested, use sharp tools to get to the screw head. There is nothing more dangerous than a tool that is dull though so do not compromise.

nerd_flanders · 11-09-2009, 02:09 AM

If you have trouble unscrewing the screws, scrape out the paint and put a driver bit in to match the screw head and then get a socket to fit the driver head and ratchet it off.
No need to thank me .