Denatured alcohol can be a painter's best friend: This versatile solvent saves time and frustration on everything from surface preparation to tool maintenance. The experts at Complete Paint & Supplies recommend keeping this affordable solution on hand for every home paint project undertaken.
If you're unfamiliar with this solvent, we're happy to explain what it is and how to use it. Over time, you'll rely on it time and time again when painting.
The Nature of Denatured Alcohol
What is denatured alcohol? It is basically ethanol (the same type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages) that was treated with additives to make it suitable for industrial and household use and unsuitable for drinking. Manufacturers add denaturants, typically methanol or other chemicals, which turn the product into a cleaning solvent.
Denatured alcohol is widely available at a lower cost than pure ethanol; it's a clear liquid with a strong, distinctive smell. Even more importantly, it's a powerful cleaning agent that evaporates quickly, leaving no residue. You'll find it sold at hardware stores, home improvement centers, and paint supply shops.
Denatured Alcohol Prepares Surfaces for Paint
One of the most valuable uses for this solvent is surface preparation for painting. Denatured alcohol removes oils, grease, and other contaminants that can prevent paint from adhering effectively. It works particularly well on wood, metal, and glass surfaces.
It's simple to use: Before applying primer, paint, or stain, wipe down the surface with a clean cloth dampened with denatured alcohol. The solvent cuts through fingerprints, dust, and light oils that accumulate during handling. And because it evaporates so rapidly, you won't need to wait long before applying your primer or paint.
For stubborn residue or waxy buildup, apply denatured alcohol more liberally. Let it sit for a moment to break down the contaminant, then wipe clean with a fresh cloth. But always work in a well-ventilated area, since the fumes can be intense.
How To Use Denatured Alcohol for Painting Tools
Denatured alcohol also cleans shellac- and oil-based paints from tools and equipment. Simply soak your brushes or other tools in a bucket of denatured alcohol, then wipe off the residue with paper towels.
It also works as a degreaser for plastic, wood, metal, and tile surfaces. Apply denatured alcohol to a rag and gently rub it to remove dirt, scuffs, grease, and stains. It also removes wax, dissolves glue, and kills mildew.
Handle Denatured Alcohol Carefully
Denatured alcohol is extremely useful, but handle it with care. Always wear gloves when working with this solvent, as it can cause skin dryness. Make sure your workspace has adequate ventilation, as the fumes can be overwhelming in enclosed spaces. And keep it away from open flames and other heat sources, as it's highly flammable.
Store denatured alcohol in its original container with the lid tightly sealed. Keep it out of reach of children and pets because it is poisonous if ingested. Finally, never pour it down the drain—dispose of it according to your local hazardous-waste guidelines.
We'll Help You Start Your Next Project with Confidence
Having the right supplies makes all the difference in achieving professional results, and Complete Paint & Supplies stocks everything you need for surface preparation and tool maintenance. We feature Benjamin Moore PPG interior/exterior paint, paint supplies, and equipment. Stop by or contact us for information in Service Areas: Petoskey, Charlevoix, Boyne City, Harbor Springs, and Cheboygan, MI.