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Tips & Techniques

A Chute for Scraping Paint

Use a 4-ft. length of 4-mil plastic sheeting, stapled to 2 4-ft. lengths of 1x2, for easy dumping.

By Charles Miller Issue 269 - Aug/Sept 2017

When I need to scrape some exterior paint, I create a plastic chute to make cleanup a breeze. I cut a 4-ft. length of 4-mil plastic sheeting and then staple a 4-ft. length of 1×2 to each end. The 1x2s give the rig just enough weight and stiffness so the sheeting doesn’t blow around. When I’m done scraping, I pick up the 1x2s and my plastic sheeting becomes a chute for dumping the paint scrapings into the garbage. For storage, just roll each 1×2 toward the center. It takes up just a bit more space than a pair of 1x2s.

— Jim Argeropoulos, Marquette, Mich.

Edited and illustrated by Charles Miller

From Fine Homebuilding #269

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  1. rsweden | Aug 28, 2017 11:11pm | #1

    A good idea if combined with lead safe work practices when necessary.

  2. user-7038851 | May 25, 2019 03:30pm | #2

    Yes, i was thinking also about lead. Unless you TEST the paint, you are not sure if it is lead paint or not. Lead paint would require you to use Renovate Right RRP methods the EPA suggests. For one thing, 6 mil poly would be preferred, and a bigger area between your work location and the edges of the poly.

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