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Paint removal is a time-consuming job that can take anywhere from an hour for small surfaces, like a single stair banister, to multiple days for larger projects, like removing paint from wood siding. Expect to spend between five and 20 minutes per square foot. You can use chemical paint strippers to speed up the process, but be sure you use proper protective gear and take care to pick a product that’s suited for your material.

To remove paint from brick with vinegar, you can use the vinegar in much the same way you would paint stripper. However, vinegar needs significantly more time to soak into the paint. Apply the vinegar with a spray bottle, let it soak in, then scrub the paint's surface.

While a pressure washer is certainly powerful enough to remove old and peeling paint, this is not a great idea to do yourself. The pressure washer is so powerful that you could actually damage the walls as you strip away the paint. It’s best to leave paint stripping to the pros. 

Yes, you can paint over old exterior paint, but success depends on the condition of the existing paint and proper surface preparation. If the previous coating is in good shape (not cracked, peeling, or flaky), you can paint over it with less prep work. However, for the most durable and professional-looking results, follow these key preparation steps:

• Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the exterior to remove all dirt, grime, and mildew. A pressure washer can be very effective for this.

• Scrape and Sand: If the old paint is peeling, cracked, or flaky, you must scrape off all loose paint. After scraping, sand the surface to create a smooth, even base for the new paint. Sanding is especially important for wood siding.

• Apply Primer: Using a quality exterior primer is highly recommended. It ensures the new paint adheres properly, improves durability, and provides a uniform finish. If you are painting a lighter color over a dark one, a tinted primer will help cover the old color more effectively.

Some brands offer paint-and-primer-in-one products for convenience. Taking the time to prepare the surface properly will not only increase your home's curb appeal but also help protect your siding and extend its life.