Abstract: Paint is removed from a painted surface by applying to the surface a solution containing an alkali metal hydroxide and a polyacrylate thickening agent having a viscosity which decreases above a predetermined transition pH. The initial pH of the composition is adjusted to just above the transition pH by including a sufficient amount of the hydroxide in the composition so that the composition is readily spreadable. As the pH of the composition falls during use its viscosity increases; thereby becoming more firmly attached to the surface; permitting the composition to remain in contact with the surface for a sufficient time to destroy the adhesion of the paint to the surface.The thickening agent is a cross-linked carboxylated copolymer of acrylic acid and methacrylate.