Suggestions for stripping paint off of bronze

I have 5 bronze fireplace surrounds that were painted an aweful shade of brown by the previous owner.  I can think of few more egregious sins than painting bronze, but unfortunately this is the case.  They are all fairly ornate with lots of little grooves.  As far as I can tell, there is only one or two layers of latex paint that is not very old, however since they are so heavily ornamented, removing the paint is proving to be a very difficult task.  I have tried a using a methylene chloride based stripper and this works well on the flat surfaces but has not been successful in the ornamented areas.  I have also noticed a bit or tarnishing starting to appear in the small areas that I have tested with the stripper.  I dont want to cause any further damage but I need something strong enough to get the paint off.  I have thought of removing them and boiling them in vinegar but I doubt I’d be able to find a pot or tank large enought to do this.  Anyone have any suggestions or experience stripping bronze?

eric3872

in Metalwork 13 years and 3 months ago

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biggles | 13 years and 3 months ago

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might consider BIx paint stripper spray or brush it on 24hrs overnight and wash it off

stevecym | 13 years and 3 months ago

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any time we do any detailed metal, which is often as we do a lot of door hardware, we use fine brass and steel brushes (whichever does not scratch) to get the detail; it is the only way (unless you have compressed air or a power washer which need to be used out of doors).  Also, with respect to sandblasting, you are right not to want to do that as silica – be it sand or glass bead – will leave a whitish finish on the metal.   You mention tarnish, that can be polished out and once done, perhaps the metal can be lacquered to protect it.  If you still wish to out source, you are probably best to work with the park slope folks above as I doubt we could compete with their prices. steve

ParkSlopePS | 13 years and 3 months ago

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you could try a heat gun, or an infra-red paint stripper. Should be somewhat easy once the metal gets hot. Also , there’s Smart Strip – which you apply and let dwell for 24-48 hours. If you should choose to have it done for you, our shop charges $75 for a detailed  summer screen insert, and $50-75 for the surround. Park Slope Paint Strippers  718 783 4112

hancockone | 13 years and 3 months ago

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Two ideas. For metal hardware I have had good luck with Peel Away stripper. No fumes, washes off with water, mine was wrapped for 24 hrs and the paint fell off. Recently I had my fireplace surround sent out to EverNu Metal Finishing, and sandblasted and powder-coated (gold, in my case, you can have any color). It looks awesome.