Product Comparison:
Heat Gun vs. Citristrip Stripping Gel
Mess:
Odor:
Heat gun does not give off harsh odors as compared to chemical varnish removers.
Citristrip gives off fumes and requires ventilation.
Ease of Use:
Heat gun require two hand coordination. One hand to hold the gun and one to scrap the varnish off.
Citristrip gel is applied onto the wood surface with a paintbrush.
Mess:
Heat gun produces less mess.
Citristrip requires gel application, scraping off a mixture of Citristrip gel with varnish, and surface cleaning.
Cost:
Heat gun will cost less in the long run.
Wood Damage:
Heat gun can easily burn the wood and discolor it.
Citristrip will not discolor wood.
Personal Safety:
Citristrip fumes can irritate the respiratory system.
Citristrip chemical can irritate the skin upon prolong contact.
Citristrip chemical can irritate the skin upon prolong contact.
Heat gun can burn the skin upon contact.
Conclusion:
Citristrip is easier to achieve the desired result without the accidental burning of wood surfaces.
