How to

How to remove old paint from door and window latches

With their classic heritage features and sturdy construction, character homes provide a timeless living environment and are very common in our part of the world. Villas, bungalows and mid-century homes are crafted with natural materials that do require a little more upkeep than some more modern alternatives but can be easily managed with a little maintenance and fresh coats of Resene paint.

More often than not, these homes come with original metal window and door latches, which can be splashed with layers of old paint. This can seriously diminish the overall look but can be instantly revived and returned to their former glory with a little know-how. Resene Paint Expert Murdo Shaw shows us exactly how to rejuvenate hardware quickly and easily with some simple step-by-step instructions.

Screwdriver
Safety gear
Resene Strip-Off paint stripper
Resene paint pots
Nylon scouring pad
Mild detergent

1

Remove latches

Use a screwdriver to remove all your latches and lay them all out. Keep them grouped together with screws so you don’t lose track and make a note to yourself which set belongs on which window or door.

2

Cover up

Resene Strip-Off paint stripper is a very powerful solvent, so be sure to wear your safety gear, including solvent-resistant gloves, mask and glasses.

3

Prep your product

Pour Resene Strip-Off paint stripper into a paint pot.

Resene Strip-Off is an effective, low-odour paint stripper, free from methylene chloride, caustic soda and other strong alkalis. It’s also non-drip and suitable for removing a wide range of paints from common household items.

4

Strip down

Place your latches into the paint pot. Use a brush to thoroughly wet the surface of each latch with the Resene Strip-Off and leave for at least 30 minutes before testing. If the paint removes easily, use a broad knife to scrape it off the surface.

If the paint is still adhering firmly, leave for another 30 minutes before testing again. A softening period of an hour or more may be necessary. Do not allow the Resene Strip-Off to dry on the surface of the latch.

5

Scrub clean

In another bucket mix weak detergent with water and use a nylon scouring pad to scrub the remaining paint off the latches. Dry your latches with an old rag.

Allow the painted surface to dry for at least 24 hours before you add the latches.

6

Ready to reattach

Reattach latches to your windows and doors, then stand back and marvel at the extraordinary difference this simple job has made.

Other projects for character homes

Paint your frames

Painting your windows inside and out is not only an essential part of home maintenance, but you’ll be surprised at the big impact this relatively simple DIY job has. While the process is very similar for both sides, the exterior will require a little more prep work due to the surface being exposed to the elements. On the inside, clean with Resene Interior Paintwork Cleaner, prime then fill any holes with Resene EzyFill Quick, then sand smooth and remove sanding dust. Prime with Resene Quick Dry and topcoat with Resene Lustacryl semi-gloss in your chosen colour or use Resene Enamacryl for a gloss finish. Outside, treat with Resene Moss & Mould Killer and clean with Resene Paint Prep and Housewash, then follow the same prep, prime and paint steps as the inside.

French touch

Like windows, French doors can look like new with a fresh coat of paint. Clean and prep as per the windows above, then spot prime with Resene Quick Dry, and prime fully with Resene Wood Primer. Once dry, apply two coats of Resene Lustacryl in your chosen colour.

Stairwell to heaven

Refreshing interior balustrades can instantly modernise and reinvigorate your stairwell, while still retaining their classic character and allowing it to shine through. Plus, painting not only transforms the look and feel of the area, it also provides good protection, as balustrades are one of the most touched surfaces in your home and are subjected to lots of daily wear and tear. Prep with Resene Interior Paintwork Cleaner, fill any holes and sand smooth, wiping away sanding dust. Prime with Resene Quick Dry, then topcoat with Resene Lustacryl.