Removing old or outdated wallpaper is a tedious and strenuous job that no one likes to do, and the best way to do it is to let someone else do it.
But if that’s not possible or you for some unknown reason want to do this yourself then you’ve come to the right place.
As a professional painter, I look for methods that are efficient and time-saving since your body and mental health will take a beating in the process.
With the right tools, technique, a bit of patience and this comprehensive guide, you’ll be peeling off that pesky paper in no time.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or if it’s your first time, this article will provide you with a step-by-step process to make the job a breeze, well, a little easier.
What is the Best Way to Remove Wallpaper?
The best way to remove wallpaper, if you have the time and resources, is to wet the wallpaper liberally with a gel wallpaper stripper and then cover it with plastic sheeting.
If it’s a vinyl wallpaper peel off the outer layer first or use a utility knife and cut slits into the wallpaper to allow the gel to penetrate. You can also use a scorer tool such as the WP Chomp Wallpaper Scorer Remover Tool.
After applying the gel, leave it to soak for a few hours or even overnight. This will soften the paper and adhesive making the wallpaper much easier to peel off.
This method works best when you have concrete or plaster walls. If you have drywalls that haven’t been primed it can be a little more challenging, and be careful so you don’t damage the drywall too much.
Another method and if time is of the essence then it’s faster to peel it off with a tool such as OLFA heavy-duty scraper. This method is very strenuous and will usually leave a surface that needs to be skim coated.
The scraper’s blade is very sharp so be careful when using it and be sure you don’t work next to someone since you’ll risk injuring them.
The next best method is to simply wet the wallpaper with a sponge and warm water. You can use some dish soap in the water or a wallpaper stripper solution, but then you’ll have to make sure you don’t leave any soapy residue on the walls.
Make sure to soak the wallpaper thoroughly, allowing the water to penetrate through the paper and loosen the adhesive underneath.
It’s best to let the water sit for about 15 to 20 minutes before you start scraping. If you notice the wallpaper isn’t coming off easily, you may need to apply more water and let it sit a little longer.
When it comes to steam machines professionals usually don’t use them since it takes too long and it can get very steamy.
Dealing with Different Types of Wallpapers
When it comes to removal, it’s important to understand the type of wallpaper you’re dealing with.
Different wallpapers require different approaches, and using the wrong method can lead to unnecessary damage or labor.
Traditional Wallpaper
This type of wallpaper is one of the easiest to remove. You just soak it with either water or wallpaper stripper and then gently scrape it off using a putty knife or scraper.
Vinyl Wallpaper
Vinyl wallpaper removal can be quite challenging due to the durable and water-resistant nature of the material.
It’s designed to resist the penetration of water and other substances, which makes it difficult for wallpaper removal solutions to seep through and dissolve the adhesive underneath.
As a result, you’ll have to peel off the outer vinyl layer, then soak and scrape the remaining paper backing and adhesive.
Or, if it’s hard to peel off you can perforate the outer layer with a utility knife or a scorer tool before soaking it.
Textured Wallpaper
When it comes to removing textured wallpaper the process can vary in complexity. In some cases, textured wallpaper can be easily stripped off without causing much damage to the underlying surface.
However, on occasion, the wallpaper can be hard to remove depending on the brand, adhesive used, and if it’s been painted.
In such scenarios, you may have to sand it down by using a drywall sander and skimcoat it.
Non-Woven Wallpaper
Non-woven wallpaper is a special type of wallpaper made from a mixture of natural and synthetic fibers. This type of wallpaper is highly popular due to its durability and ease of installation.
However, one of the significant drawbacks of non-woven wallpaper is that it can be harder to remove compared to traditional wallpaper.
Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a popular choice for many homeowners and renters since it’s easy to install and remove.
Unlike traditional wallpaper, which often requires a tedious and messy process, peel-and-stick wallpaper can typically be removed simply by peeling it off the wall.
It doesn’t leave any sticky residue or damage the surface underneath, making it an ideal choice for those who like to frequently change their home decor or are living in a rental property.
However, it’s important to note that the ease of removal can sometimes depend on the quality of the wallpaper and the condition of the wall it was applied to.
Tools and Materials Needed
Using the right tools and materials will make the job easier. Whether you’re dealing with traditional, vinyl, or textured wallpapers, having these essentials on hand will make the process more effective.
Scrapers and Putty Knives: These are invaluable for gently lifting and peeling away wallpaper, especially when dealing with stubborn patches.
Spray Bottles or Garden Sprayers: Filled with water or a wallpaper removal solution, these help moisten the wallpaper, making it easier to peel off.
Scoring Tools: Particularly useful for vinyl wallpapers, this tool creates tiny perforations in the wallpaper, allowing moisture or removal solutions to penetrate behind it.
Paint roller and paintbrush: When applying the gel. Use an extension pole.
Wallpaper Steamer: While it’s an investment, some like to use one of these.
Wallpaper Removal Solutions: While there are commercial solutions available, many DIYers swear by a mixture of water and white vinegar or water and dish soap. It’s worth experimenting to see which works best for your specific wallpaper.
Gloves: It gets messy so you’ll want to wear gloves when working.
Floor protection paper: Lay these down to protect your floors from moisture and debris, making cleanup a breeze.
Paper disposal bags: You’ll need a few of these. I always use paper since it can stand by itself, unlike plastic. And it’s better for the environment.
Now that you’re equipped with the right tools and know-how, it’s time to dive into the actual process.
Preparation is key, and our next section will guide you through the crucial steps to take before you begin peeling away that old wallpaper.
Preparation Before You Begin
Before you start removing the wallpaper some prep work needs to be done.
Remove Furniture and Decor: Clear the room as much as possible. If you can’t take out some larger furniture pieces, move them to the center and cover them with drop cloths or plastic sheeting.
Electrical Outlets and Switches: Safety first! Turn off the electricity in the room and use painter’s tape to cover outlets and switches if you can’t remove them.
Lay Down Floor Protection Paper: You need to protect your floor since it can get really messy.
Have in mind that you need to have your windows closed and make sure you don’t have a draft since this will dry out your walls during the removal process.
With your room prepped you’re now ready to tackle the wallpaper head-on.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Wallpaper
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process from start to finish.
Traditional Wallpaper Removal
Moisten the Wallpaper: You can do this by either rolling on gel and sealing it with plastic sheeting as mentioned at the start of the article.
A faster method, but not as effective, is by using a sponge or a spray bottle/garden sprayer to dampen the wall with a wallpaper stripper. Allow it to soak for 10-20 minutes. If it starts to dry then apply more and keep it wet during the whole process.
Begin Scraping: With a scraper or putty knife, start at a corner or seam and lift the wallpaper. It should come off in strips or large pieces. If it resists, apply more moisture and let it sit a bit longer.
If it comes off really easy I usually use a wide joint knife which makes the process go much faster.
Clean the Walls: Once all the wallpaper is removed, there might be some adhesive residue left. Use a sponge and rinse with clean water and let dry. When it’s dry, sand the walls with a 120 grit sandpaper.
Vinyl Wallpaper Removal
Vinyl wallpaper is a bit more tricky due to its non-porous nature. The key is to separate the vinyl layer from its backing, then tackle the paper and adhesive underneath.
Peel the Vinyl Layer: Start at a corner or seam and try to peel off the top vinyl layer. In many cases, this layer will come off relatively easily, leaving the paper or fabric backing on the wall.
For some reason, I seem to get the best result by starting peeling from the floor/baseboard and pulling up.
If it’s really hard to peel off the outer layer then use a utility knife or a scoring tool to make small cuts in the vinyl. Be careful not to cut too deep to avoid damaging the wall underneath.
Moisten the Backing: Once the vinyl layer is scored or removed, you’ll treat the remaining backing much like traditional wallpaper. Dampen it with water or a solution, allowing it to soak and soften the adhesive.
Scrape Off the Backing: With the backing moistened, use your scraper or putty knife to remove it from the wall.
Final Cleanup: As with traditional wallpaper, you’ll likely have some adhesive residue to contend with. Clean the walls with a sponge and water and let dry.
Textured Wallpaper
Removing textured wallpaper can be a bit challenging, but it’s completely doable.
Peel the Vinyl Layer: If it’s made of vinyl then try to peel off the outer layer. Use a wallpaper scoring tool and make small perforations in the wallpaper if that’s not possible.
Moisten the Backing: Once the vinyl layer is scored or removed, you’ll treat the remaining backing much like traditional wallpaper. Dampen it with water or a solution and allow it to soak for at least 15-20 minutes.
Scrape Off the Backing: With the backing moistened, use your scraper or putty knife to remove it from the wall.
Clean the Walls: Once all the wallpaper is removed, there might be some adhesive residue left. Use a sponge and rinse with clean water and let dry. When it’s dry, sand the walls with a 120 grit sandpaper.
If you can’t get the outer layer off you can use a sander to sand it down. You can either use a handheld sander or a drywall sander.
If you can’t get a fully smooth surface by sanding you’ll need to skim-coat and sand the walls. Another method is to hang thick lining paper on the walls.
This is especially important if you’re going to paint the walls afterward.
Remember to be patient and take your time. Removing wallpaper can be a time-consuming process, but the end result is worth it.
FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about the subject.
Is it better to paint over the wallpaper or remove it?
If the wallpaper is in good condition then painting it can work just fine. Although, often times bubbles will show when painting it which needs to be peeled off and spackled since they don’t always go down again when the paint has dried.
And if it’s an old traditional wallpaper the seams will be visible so this requires some prep work, if you don’t mind them showing of course.
Is a wallpaper steamer worth it?
In my opinion, no. It’s faster and less work to use the methods mentioned in the article.
What dissolves wallpaper glue?
Several solutions can dissolve wallpaper glue. A mixture of hot water and white vinegar or dish soap is commonly used.
Commercial wallpaper adhesive removers are also available and can be particularly effective for tougher adhesives.
Always rinse the wall after using any solution to ensure no residue remains.
How long do you have to soak wallpaper before you remove it?
The soaking time for wallpaper can vary based on its type and how many layers there are. Typically, allowing the wallpaper to soak for 15-20 minutes with a removal solution should suffice.
Conclusion
And there you have it! The world of wallpaper removal, demystified.
Removing wallpaper is a boring and grueling task, but with the right tools, techniques, and a sprinkle of patience, it’s entirely doable by anyone.
Removing the wallpaper gives the best result and the best finish in the end.