Restoration Works Inc. has developed a method of paint stripping called the Light Wave Stripper. This method utilizes infrared technology and is changing the way old paint coatings can be removed. By placing the Light Wave Stripper over a section of wood for 60 seconds, multiple layers of paint are loosened and lifted and the paint can be scraped off as if it were butter.
The paint stripping industry is dominated by chemical based paint removal products, most of which are toxic or harmful to humans in some way. Eliminating chemicals used in paint stripping can have an impact on our health and our environment, and it can encourage more reuse and recycling of materials, such as original, old growth forest wood. Professional painting contractors, lead abatement contractors, restoration companies, and others who strip high volumes of paint-laden objects can now do so without the use of any chemicals.
Restoration Works Inc. has been using the Light Wave Stripper internally for over 4 years with success. Stripping production has increased because the removal process is efficient and toxic waste has decreased (by up to 90 percent) because no chemicals are needed. Whether used in a shop setting or on a job site, the Light Wave Stripper saves time and money. Traditional paint stripping methods are time consuming and bad for the environment. The traditional process involves applying chemicals; waiting for the chemicals to penetrate (12-24 hours); removing the chemicals and paint; and disposing of the waste. In contrast, the Light Wave Stripper requires a 60-second zap. The one thing left to collect is the paint shavings, which if lead-based must be disposed of properly.
The Light Wave Stripper was developed by Restoration Works Inc. to solve the difficulty of paint stripping and to allow more historic material to be saved and restored, as well as to promote the Green movement which encourages us to recycle, reuse, and restore older materials that are just being thrown away. Because the public considers paint stripping to be difficult, people often choose to replace the original forest wood used in older buildings rather than to restore and reuse it. As a result, a large amount of original forest wood is thrown away. When people remodel old buildings, they often use inferior substitute products, such as early growth pulp wood, composite wood, plastic imitation wood, and laminated boards when they could be reusing the real wood beams and boards that are being thrown away.
Restoration Works Inc. and Light Wave Stripping Inc. won an award from the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center for having demonstrated a commitment to environmental excellence through outstanding and innovative sustainability practices. Winners are selected through a process of review and examination by ISTC experts. This award recognized all of the sustainable practices Restoration Works Inc. has developed, especially its stripping method, the Light Wave Stripper.
Light Wave Stripping Inc. is introducing its stripping devices to the market.