How to Remove Wallpaper
Wallpaper can transform a room, adding color, pattern, and texture. However, your initial design may become outdated and change over time, or you might move into a space with obsolete or damaged wallpaper. When refreshing your walls, knowing how to remove wallpaper effectively is vital.
In this guide, we’ll explore the easiest, best and fastest methods to remove old wallpaper and the benefits of hiring professionals like Carolina Blue Painting Company in New Jersey for optimal results.
The Easiest Way to Remove Wallpaper
Removing wallpaper can be challenging, but some methods make it easier. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the easiest way to remove wallpaper.
- Gather Your Supplies: Gather the necessary tools and materials before you start. You’ll need a wallpaper scraper, a utility knife, a sponge or cloth, a bucket of warm water, wallpaper adhesive remover, and protective gear like gloves and safety goggles.
- Prepare the Room: Clear the room of furniture and cover the floors with drop cloths or plastic sheets to catch any debris or water. Turn off the electricity in the room to avoid any accidents with electrical outlets or switches.
- Test a Small Section: It’s essential to determine the type of wallpaper and adhesive used. Test a small, inconspicuous area using your wallpaper scraper to lift a corner of the wallpaper gently. If it peels away easily, it’s likely strippable wallpaper. If not, you may have traditional wallpaper that requires more effort.
- Peel and Scrape: For strippable wallpaper, gently peel it away from the wall, starting at the corners. Use the scraper to help lift the paper off the wall. Work slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the drywall underneath.
- Remove Adhesive Residue: After the wallpaper is off, you may still have adhesive residue on the wall. Apply wallpaper adhesive remover to a sponge or cloth, and gently scrub the residue until it’s gone.
- Clean and Repair: Once the wallpaper and adhesive are removed, clean the walls with warm, soapy water to remove any remaining residue. Inspect the drywall for any damage or imperfections and make any necessary repairs.
The Best and Fastest Way to Remove Wallpaper With Multiple Layers
If you’re looking for the best and fastest way to remove wallpaper, especially if it’s stubborn or has multiple layers, consider the following alternative method.
- Score the Wallpaper: Carefully score the wallpaper’s surface using a utility knife or wallpaper scorer. This creates small perforations that allow water or wallpaper removal solution to penetrate the adhesive more effectively.
- Apply Wallpaper Removal Solution: Purchase a commercial wallpaper removal solution from your local hardware store. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and applying the solution to the scored wallpaper. Allow it to sit for the recommended time, typically 15-20 minutes. Additionally, you can make your own solution with 1/3 vinegar, 2/3 hot water or 1/4 fabric softener with 3/4 hot water. Some may find Windex works as well.
- Steamers: Hot steam can soften the adhesive, breaking the glue, especially on old, stubborn wallpapers. Remember not to soak the wall. Start with ten seconds and increase to thirty seconds if needed.
- Scrape Away the Wallpaper: After the solution has had time to work, gently use your wallpaper scraper to peel and scrape away the wallpaper. The scored surface should make this process easier and faster.
- Clean and Repair: Like the previous method, clean the walls thoroughly to remove adhesive residue. Inspect the drywall for any damage or imperfections and make necessary repairs.
Why Consider Hiring Professionals like Carolina Blue Painting Company
While DIY methods are suitable for many wallpaper removal projects, there are instances where professional help is invaluable.
- Complex or Extensive Wallpaper Removal: If your wallpaper removal project involves multiple layers, intricate patterns, or a large area, professionals have the experience and tools to handle it efficiently.
- Time-Saving: Professionals can complete the job quickly and without the hassle of purchasing and using specialized tools and materials.
- Minimize Damage: Trained experts know how to remove wallpaper without causing damage to the underlying drywall, which can be a concern with DIY attempts.
- Safety: Wallpaper removal can involve chemicals and tools requiring proper safety precautions. Professionals are trained to handle these materials safely.
If you have ever tried to remove wallpaper yourself, it may have been extremely frustrating and time-consuming as most of the old wallpaper applications are difficult to remove.
For these complex projects or those who prefer to leave it to the experts, contacting professionals like Carolina Blue Painting Company in New Jersey ensures the best results, saving you time and effort while preserving the integrity of your walls.
Whether you choose to tackle it yourself or enlist professional help, a beautifully redecorated space awaits on the other side of that old wallpaper.
Contact Carolina Blue Painting for optimum wallpaper removal, resulting in a perfectly smooth new base to apply either paint or new wallpaper.