If your home features outdated wallpaper that no longer suits your style, you may want to consider removing or replacing it. While the process of removing old wallpaper requires some effort, it is manageable with the right approach.
By following a few straightforward steps, you can effectively remove wallpaper and refresh your space with minimal hassle.
How to Remove Wallpaper
If you’re planning to refinish a surface that has been previously wallpapered, removing the old wallpaper is usually necessary.
However, there are some cases where you might choose not to remove the existing wallpaper. You can safely install new wallpaper over a single layer of smooth, well-adhered wallpaper as long as it is free of bubbles, wrinkles, and buckles.
To ensure a smooth installation, some prep work is needed: repaste any loose paper, patch any damages, clean the walls, and apply a special primer.
When Not to Install Wallpaper Over Existing Paper:
– If there is more than one layer of wallpaper.
– If the existing wallpaper has a vinyl, foil, or plastic film, it should be removed even if it’s a single layer, as wallpaper adhesive does not adhere well to these surfaces.
– If you’re planning to install vinyl wallpaper. If the previous layer is also vinyl, the glue between the layers will not dry properly, leading to issues. Non-vinyl wallpaper can also become damp under the new layer, leading to mold or mildew.
– If the existing wallpaper is made from materials like grass cloth, burlap, or cork.
– If you hear crinkling sounds when running your hand over the wallpaper, indicating buckling that requires removal.
– If there are tears in the wallpaper at the corners, likely due to wall settling, the wallpaper should be removed.
If You’re Painting:
It’s essential to remove the wallpaper before painting. Painting over wallpaper seals the surface, making future removal difficult and often causing the paint to look uneven and less smooth.
Identifying Your Wall Type:
Before beginning the removal process, identify whether your walls are made of plaster or drywall, as this will affect how carefully you need to work.
– Plaster Walls:
Typically found in homes over 50 years old, plaster walls are built with wooden lath covered by several coats of plaster. These walls are sturdier and sound dull when knocked on.
– Drywall:
Used in homes built in the last 50 years, drywall consists of a sheet of chalk-like material covered with lightweight cardboard.
When knocked on, drywall sounds hollow and is more fragile than plaster. Be careful not to damage the surface when scraping wallpaper off drywall.
How to Prepare Your Walls for Wallpaper Removal
Before diving into wallpaper removal, it’s crucial to properly prepare the space. Following a few key steps will ensure the process goes smoothly and help protect your room from unnecessary damage. Here’s how to get started:
1. Clear the Walls
Begin by removing all pictures, mirrors, shelves, and other items from your walls. This makes the wallpaper removal process easier and also protects your décor from accidental damage.
For additional protection, cover electrical sockets and switches with masking tape and plastic sheeting.
2. Clear the Room and Use Dust Sheets
After clearing the walls, move furniture and other obstructions out of the room. If some items cannot be removed, place them in the center of the room and cover them with dust sheets.
Dust sheets should also be used to protect the floor from damage during the wallpaper removal process. This precaution not only minimizes mess but also simplifies the cleanup.
3. Switch Off the Electricity
For safety, always turn off the electricity in the room before starting. You can do this at your fuse box. This step reduces the risk of water or steam entering the sockets or switches during wallpaper removal, ensuring a safe working environment.
Once the walls are clear, electrical fixtures are protected, and the room is prepared, you’re ready to begin removing the wallpaper.
How to Remove Wallpaper: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that your space is prepared, it’s time to start removing the wallpaper. Below is a guide to the tools you’ll need and the step-by-step process for efficient wallpaper removal.
Tools You’ll Need:
– Scoring Tool: This tool creates small perforations in the wallpaper, allowing the stripping solution to penetrate the adhesive.
– Stripping Solution: This helps break down the adhesive, making the wallpaper easier to remove.
– Wallpaper Scraper: Essential for lifting and scraping off the wallpaper once it’s softened by the solution.
Step-by-Step Wallpaper Removal Process:
1. Preparation: Ensure the room is cleared, furniture is moved, and surfaces are covered with dust sheets to maintain a tidy workspace.
2. Score the Wallpaper: Use the scoring tool to make small perforations in the wallpaper. This allows the stripping solution to reach the adhesive behind the wallpaper.
3. Apply the Stripping Solution: Generously apply the stripping solution to the perforated wallpaper, allowing it to soak in and loosen the adhesive.
4. Wait for the Solution to Work: Allow the solution to sit for at least 20 minutes. This gives it time to thoroughly soften the wallpaper and make removal easier.
5. Scrape Away the Wallpaper: Using a wallpaper scraper, gently lift the wallpaper from the edges and work your way across the wall. Be careful not to damage the wall beneath. If any chips occur, there are ways to repair them, which we’ll cover later.
By following these steps, you’ll have a much easier time removing wallpaper and keeping your walls in good condition.
How to Use a Wallpaper Steamer
A wallpaper steamer is a powerful tool for removing wallpaper, making the process faster and easier. By applying steam, it penetrates the adhesive holding the wallpaper, softening it for easy removal.
This method reduces wall damage and is particularly useful for removing stubborn or multiple layers of wallpaper.
Components of a Wallpaper Steamer:
– Water tank: Holds water for heating.
– Heating element: Heats the water to produce steam.
– Hose with steaming plate: Delivers steam to the wallpaper.
Steps to Remove Wallpaper with a Steamer:
1. Fill the Tank: Add the recommended amount of water to the tank, following the indicator lines.
2. Connect and Heat: Attach the hose and allow the steamer to heat up as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Apply Steam: Hold the steaming plate against the wallpaper for several seconds to saturate the adhesive.
4. Peel Away Wallpaper: Begin peeling from the edges and work across the wall.
5. Repeat as Needed: Move the steamer to the next section and repeat until the entire area is covered.
Tips for Effective Use:
– If steam production is low, check the water level and ensure proper heating.
– Check hose connections for leaks and tighten if necessary.
– Address any electrical issues immediately to ensure safe operation.
How to Remove Wallpaper Without a Steamer
Materials You’ll Need:
– Large pump sprayer
– Fabric softener
– Wallpaper scoring tool
– Wallpaper scraper tool
– Painter’s plastic roll
– Patience (essential!)
Step 1: Prepare Your Space
Before you begin, protect your floors and baseboards by covering them with painter’s plastic roll.
This will shield them from water and make cleanup easier. Don’t forget to tape off any electrical outlets to prevent water from seeping in.
Step 2: Score the Wallpaper
Use a wallpaper scoring tool to lightly score the walls. Apply moderate pressure—just enough to create small surface knicks.
Avoid pressing too hard as this can tear the wallpaper into tiny pieces, making it harder to remove. Scoring the surface allows the water mixture to penetrate and soften the adhesive behind the wallpaper.
Step 3: Create Your Solution
Fill your pump sprayer with warm to hot water and add approximately two capfuls of fabric softener.
The brand doesn’t matter, but choose a scent you like because it will linger.
The fabric softener helps the water adhere to the wallpaper, softening it faster than plain water alone.
Step 4: Spray and Soak
This step requires patience. Spray the scored wallpaper thoroughly from top to bottom, then wait. Repeat the process multiple times.
A good approach is to alternate between rooms—spray one room, then move to the next, and return to the first room to spray again.
The key here is to let the wallpaper soak long enough to loosen the adhesive.
Trying to peel it off too soon will likely remove only the decorative layer, leaving the backing and glue on the wall, which can be difficult to remove later.
After spraying and waiting three to five times (depending on the wallpaper type), you’ll know it’s ready to peel when the paper easily lifts at the edges without much effort.
Step 5: Remove Residual Glue
Once the wallpaper is removed, you may still find some glue residue on the walls. Spray the area again, this time just once or twice, to soften the remaining glue.
Use the wallpaper scraper tool to scrape off the glue. This part can be messy but is crucial. If glue is left behind, paint applied over it may crack or peel.
How to Prepare the Wall for Wallpaper
1. Fixing the Wall Before Wallpapering
After successfully removing old wallpaper, it’s crucial to prepare your walls for the new wallpaper. If any damage occurred during wallpaper removal, such as scratches or dents, these imperfections must be addressed to ensure a clean and smooth surface for your new decor.
Smoothing and Patching
– Inspect the Walls: After removing the wallpaper, check for leftover adhesive residue and any chipped or damaged areas.
– Smooth Uneven Surfaces: Use sandpaper or a putty knife to smooth out bumps or uneven spots on the wall.
– Patch Damaged Areas: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to apply spackle paste or Polyfilla to any chipped areas. Allow sufficient drying time for the patches.
– Sand for a Smooth Finish: Once dry, sand the patched areas to create a uniform surface.
2. Washing the Wall
– Prepare Cleaning Solution: In a bucket, mix warm water with a few drops of a household cleaner, such as vinegar or dish soap.
– Clean the Wall: Using a damp cloth or sponge, wipe down the wall to remove dust, dirt, and debris, paying special attention to corners and crevices.
– Dry Thoroughly: Allow the wall to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
3. Applying Primer
– Choose a Suitable Primer: Select a high-quality primer that matches your wall type and wallpaper material.
– Apply Primer Evenly: Using a paint roller or brush, cover the entire surface of the walls with the primer.
– Dry According to Instructions: Allow the primer to dry completely as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
4. Final Clean Before Installation
– Wipe Down Again: Perform one last cleaning of the walls with a mild solution of warm water and dish soap, using a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining dust or residue.
– Ensure Complete Dryness: Allow the walls to dry fully before hanging the new wallpaper, as moisture can hinder adhesion.
By meticulously preparing your walls for wallpaper installation, you ensure a flawless finish and long-lasting results. Smoothing, patching, cleaning, and priming will put your walls in optimal condition, ready to showcase your chosen wallpaper design beautifully.
Quick Fix for Peeling Wallpaper
If removing your wallpaper feels overwhelming, there is a straightforward solution for peeling wallpaper that allows you to restore its appearance without complete removal.
Identifying the Issue
Understanding why your wallpaper is peeling is essential. Common causes include:
– Inadequate adhesive application during installation.
– Excessive moisture or paste, leading to loose seams.
Fixing Peeling Wallpaper
1. Gently Pull Back the Wallpaper: Carefully peel back the wallpaper at the loose seam to expose the area where it adheres to the wall.
2. Apply Wallpaper Seam Adhesive: Use a small paintbrush to apply a thin layer of wallpaper seam adhesive under the loose seam for even coverage.
3. Smooth and Flatten: Press the wallpaper back down over the adhesive, using a small wooden seam roller to ensure it lies flat without damage.
4. Clean Up Excess Adhesive: Wipe away any excess adhesive that may have seeped out with a damp cloth or sponge for a clean finish.
By addressing peeling wallpaper with precision, you can restore its adherence and maintain the aesthetic integrity of your walls. With the right tools and techniques, you can revitalize your wallpaper and preserve its beauty for years to come.
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of how to remove wallpaper and prepare your walls, you’re ready to embark on your decorating project. Whether refreshing a single room or an entire home, let this guide be your companion on the journey to a revitalized living space. Your dream home awaits—let’s make it a reality together.
