Strange sticky substance...

[moonfrog1]

Hi

I've recently bought a flat and have been stripping paint off a number of wooden surfaces in my hall using a heat gun (bannisters, door frames etc.)
The top coats of paint come off fine but the last coat before the wood is a bizarre substance that, when heated, turns into a sticky plastic gunk which is almost impossible to get off. I've tried sanding it off, but with little effect - it seems to clog up sandpaper almost immediately.

Does anybody know what this bizarre substance could be? (it's a light beige colour) I presume it's some type of very old primer or wood sealant. If anyone can shed light on the mysterious stuff, i'd be most grateful.

 

[2scoops0406]

It's probably pine resin.

 

[david and julie]

Eddie is probably right. But, depending on age of the flat, it could also be old lead based paint, which also as a tendency to do as you describe.

You may be best doing a search on removing lead paint, this will explain what to look for.

I am probably wrong, but it is safer for you to make sure.

 

[Tom.]

I had the same stuff around the edges of my floors, where the carpet didn't meet the wall.

I removed it with a drill, metal sanding disc, and a wire brush (to clean the disc every few minutes). Its hard work, but it will come off eventually.