CONTENTS
Expert Tips on How to Remove Wallpaper Effectively
Are you weary of constantly gazing at that outdated wallpaper in your living space? Removing wallpaper may initially appear overwhelming, but you can significantly enhance the process with the correct approach.
Within the confines of this comprehensive guide, we are poised to navigate you meticulously through the step-by-step journey of how to remove wallpaper effectively.
We will help you figure out what kind of wall you have and show you the right techniques to remove wallpaper, even from tricky spots, easily. Let’s go!
Identify Your Wall Type
Before embarking on your endeavor to remove wallpaper, a pivotal preliminary step entails the identification of your specific wall composition.
Diverse wall variants necessitate nuanced techniques to achieve optimal outcomes when it comes to the way how to remove wallpaper.
Plaster
If the walls in your home are made of plaster, it’s essential to be gentle with them. Plaster walls can get damaged more easily compared to drywall, which is sturdier.
So, be careful when taking off the wallpaper, especially if it’s traditional wallpaper and not the easy-to-remove strippable wallpaper.
Drywall
Drywall, also known as gypsum board or sheetrock, is a more modern wall material and is generally easier to work with during wallpaper removal. However, you still need to be mindful to avoid causing unnecessary damage.
How to Remove Wallpaper
Taking off wallpaper is a methodical journey that asks for patience and carefulness. Stick to these instructions to ensure the best way to remove wallpaper:
Start Steaming at a Bottom Seam
Start by using steam to remove the wallpaper from the bottom edge. This will loosen the sticky stuff and make it simpler to peel the wallpaper away. Use a wallpaper steamer and press it against the edge briefly. This lets the steam get into the paper and the sticky part.
Alternate Between Steaming on Top of the Paper & Under It
As you continue steaming, alternate between steaming the top of the wallpaper and the area underneath it. This will ensure the wallpaper adhesive softens uniformly, making the removal process more manageable.
Use a Putty Knife to Help With More Stubborn Pieces
Some sections of wallpaper may prove to be more stubborn than others. In such cases, gently slide a putty knife under the paper and adhesive, working your way from the bottom to the top. Take care not to gouge or damage the wall underneath.
Remove the Wallpaper Glue
After successfully removing the wallpaper, you might spot some leftover glue or sticky stuff on the wall. To deal with this, mix warm water and dish soap.
Dip a sponge into the solution and softly scrub the remaining adhesive until it disappears. This way, you can effectively remove wallpaper glue from the wall.
Prep Before Painting or Re-Wallpapering
Once you’ve removed the wallpaper and any sticky stuff left, it’s time to get your wall ready for the next step. If you want to paint it, ensure the wall is nice and even, without any leftover stickiness.
If you’re considering putting up new vinyl wallpaper, ensure the wall is clean and not wet before you start. Also, remember to put down a drop cloth to keep things tidy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you remove wallpaper without damaging wall?
Taking off wallpaper without hurting the wall needs a gentle way. Use a special tool called a wallpaper steamer to make the sticky stuff soft, and then use a flat tool called a putty knife to lift the paper slowly. Don’t rush or push too hard to not harm the wall. If you want, you can also use a spray bottle to add water for easier removal. Just remember, be patient and careful so the wall stays safe.
Can I paint over wallpaper?
Painting over wallpaper is possible, but it’s not always the best solution. It’s recommended to remove the wallpaper first, as painting over it can lead to uneven surfaces and potential issues down the line.
Is it hard to remove wallpaper?
Taking off wallpaper can be easy or hard, depending on different things, like what kind of wallpaper it is, the sticky stuff it’s stuck with, and how the wall is. But with the right tools and ways, you can take off the wallpaper without too much trouble. If you want, you can even use fabric softener to help, and a scoring tool might also be handy. Just remember, there are ways to do it right!
Conclusion
Mastering the art of how to remove wallpaper may appear daunting initially. However, armed with the expert tips and techniques provided in this guide, you can approach the task with confidence.
By discerning your specific wall type, adeptly utilizing steam to release the adhesive delicately, and leveraging specialized tools like a wallpaper stripper, you can ensure an efficient removal process while safeguarding your walls.
If you want to paint your wall or put up new wallpaper and follow our simple steps, your living room or bedroom will definitely turn into a beautiful new look!
