If the wall coverings in your home are starting to feel dated, stripping off the old wallpaper and opting for a fresh coat of paint or new wallpaper can revitalize your space. Despite the different wall and wallpaper types you may encounter, this comprehensive guide will simplify the wallpaper removal process for you. Learn the essential steps to remove Wallpaper and effectively refresh your home’s aesthetic.
Remove wallpaper without damaging walls by following these steps:
Removing wallpaper can be tricky, but with some preparation and patience, you can achieve great results without damaging your walls. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Remove Wallpaper Preparation:
Move any furniture away from the walls and cover the floor with drop cloths to protect it from the water and glue residue that will inevitably drip down.
2. Determine the Wallpaper Type:
There are two types of wallpaper strippable and non-stoppable. You can figure out which one you have by trying to peel it off at a corner or seam. If it comes off easily, it’s strippable; if not, it’s non-stoppable.
– Strippable Wallpaper:
If your wallpaper is strippable, start by peeling off the top layer from the wall. You can use a putty knife or wallpaper scraper to help start it, but be careful not to gouge the wall underneath.
– Non-Strippable Wallpaper:
If your wallpaper doesn’t peel off easily, you’ll need to score it using a tool. This will create tiny holes in the paper, allowing a solution (discussed in the next step) to penetrate the wallpaper and dissolve the adhesive.
3. Apply a Wallpaper Removal Solution:
This could be a commercially available wallpaper stripper, or you can make your own with equal parts vinegar and hot water. Apply the solution using a spray bottle or a paint roller. Saturate the wallpaper thoroughly and let it soak for 15-20 minutes. Reapply the solution if it starts to dry out.
4. Scrape off the Wallpaper:
Once the wallpaper is thoroughly soaked, you can scrap it off with a putty knife or a wallpaper scraper. Work in small sections and be patient; rushing the job can damage the wall underneath. Also, keep the scraping angle low to avoid wall damage.
5. Cleaning and Prepping the Wall:
After all the wallpaper is removed, you may still see some leftover adhesive on the walls. Use the exact solution of vinegar and hot water to clean the walls. After it’s clean, rinse the wall with warm water and let it dry completely before doing additional work like painting or re-wallpapering.
6. Repairing any Damage:
If small gouges or holes are left in the wall from the scraping, use a lightweight speckling compound and a putty knife to fill in the imperfections. Let it dry, then sand the area smooth.
Remember that it’s essential to be patient. Wallpaper removal can be time-consuming, but if done correctly, you’ll have clean walls ready for whatever you plan to do next.
Recommended Removable Wallpaper: – Custom Wallpaper & Murals
Tips and Tricks for Remove Wallpaper
Removing wallpaper is challenging and often requires unique approaches based on your situation. However, these clever tips and strategies can help streamline the process:
Spray as You Pull: Keep a sprayer handy for particularly stubborn wallpaper and moisten the area behind the wallpaper as you gradually pull it off.
2. Maintain Solution Temperature: Ensure your homemade wallpaper removal solution stays hot by reheating it occasionally.
3. Manage Your Scraps: Keep a large garbage bin nearby to dispose of wallpaper pieces as you work, making the clean-up process easier and more efficient.
4. Remember Hidden Areas: Wallpaper may also be under electrical outlets and light switches. Always turn off the electricity before removing the wallpaper around these areas after removing their covers.
5. Heat Can Help: Applying heat can aid in loosening stubborn wallpaper or borders. A hair dryer, clothing steamer, or wallpaper steamer can all be used for this purpose.
6. Repair Scoring Marks: Check for tiny holes from scoring after the walls have dried. Use joint compound or speckling compound to fill in any imperfections.
7. Wait before Re-decorating: Allow the walls to dry thoroughly for a day before painting or applying new wallpaper. This waiting period ensures a smoother application and better results.
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Types of Walls
Removing wallpaper can be challenging, especially when different types of walls present unique obstacles. Let’s explore how to tackle wallpaper removal for these various wall types:
1. Plaster: Plaster walls, typically found in older homes, are known for sturdiness due to the three-coat application process. However, this might complicate the wallpaper removal task. In some cases, multiple layers of wallpaper or even wallpaper covering plaster cracks might be encountered. If removal proves too difficult, an alternative could be painting over the existing wallpaper. However, seeking professional help might be the best choice for more complex situations.
2. Drywall: Also known as sheetrock or gypsum board, drywall is a more recent and cost-effective replacement for plaster, prevalent in newer homes since the mid-20th century. The crucial factor when removing wallpaper from drywall is to avoid oversaturation, as it can damage the wall surface.
3. Panelling or Wood: These decorative wall coverings, including faux wood panelling, natural wood interlocking sections, shiplap, wainscoting, or breadboard, add a unique charm to a home. When removing wallpaper from these surfaces, be prepared for the possibility of having to remove the entire covering beneath, as damage during the removal process is quite likely. However, if the panelling or wood is in good shape post-removal, you can leave it as is, refinish it, or paint over it.
