Removing old wallpaper can feel like a challenge, but it’s a key step in preparing your walls for a new look. This guide outlines the tools, techniques, and preparation needed for a smooth wallpaper removal process.
Tools and Materials Needed
Using the right tools makes wallpaper removal more manageable and minimizes wall damage. Here are the essentials:
- Wallpaper scrapers: Ideal for peeling off large sections of wallpaper. A sturdy scraper offers better control and comfort.
- Steamers: Steam helps loosen adhesive, making it easier to remove wallpaper without harming the wall surface.
- Utility knives: Use these to cut through tough sections or edges near windows and doors.
- Wallpaper removal solutions: These products dissolve sticky adhesives, particularly helpful with older wallpaper.
- Drop cloths: Protect floors from water, glue residue, or chemicals with drop cloths or plastic sheeting.
- Sponges: After steaming or applying a removal solution, use sponges to clean leftover residue.
- Plastic scrapers: Softer scrapers are ideal for removing adhesive without scratching walls.
Having these tools on hand prepares your walls for a clean, smooth finish, whether you’re painting or installing new wallpaper.
Prepare Your Space
Before starting wallpaper removal, it’s important to set up your workspace. A clean and organized area saves time and helps prevent unnecessary mess or damage.
Clear the Room and Protect the Floors
Start by removing furniture, decorations, and rugs from the room. Moving everything out of the way allows you to access all areas of the wall easily.
Next, cover the floor with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect against water or adhesive spills. Secure the covers with tape to keep them in place. Whether your flooring is hardwood, carpet, or tile, spills can stain or cause lasting damage if not addressed.
A well-protected workspace makes the wallpaper removal process smoother and reduces cleanup time.
Cover Electrical Outlets and Switches
Once the room is clear and the floors are protected, focus on safeguarding electrical outlets and light switches. Use tape and plastic covers to block any moisture or adhesive from seeping into these areas while carrying out your wallpaper removal.
Taking this precaution keeps your workspace safe and prevents damage to electrical fixtures during wallpaper removal. Simple steps like this contribute to a more efficient and hassle-free process.
Identify Your Wall Type
Understanding the type of wall you’re working with is essential for safe and effective wallpaper removal. Different wall materials, like plaster or drywall, require different approaches to avoid damage.
Plaster Walls
Plaster walls are durable but can be tricky to work with. They’re more porous than drywall, which allows wallpaper adhesive to stick tightly. Excessive moisture or scraping can leave marks or weaken the wall surface.
To safely remove wallpaper from plaster, use gentle methods like steaming or light scraping. Taking your time and handling the wall carefully will help maintain its structural integrity.
Drywall
Drywall is common in modern homes and commercial spaces, but it’s more delicate than plaster. Water and rough scraping can damage the surface, leading to costly repairs.
While performing wallpaper removal to drywall, start with a small test area to see how easily it comes off. If the wallpaper resists or leaves adhesive behind, use a steamer or a mild wallpaper removal solution. Avoid applying too much moisture or force to protect the drywall underneath.
Methods for Wallpaper Removal
Removing wallpaper is an essential step to achieving clean, smooth walls. Two common methods include using a steamer and applying a wallpaper stripper. Both approaches soften the adhesive, making it easier to peel off the wallpaper without causing damage.
Using a Steamer
A steamer is a powerful tool for loosening wallpaper adhesive. Start by filling the steamer with water and allowing it to heat up. Once ready, hold the steamer’s plate against the wallpaper. The steam penetrates through the layers, softening the glue underneath.
Once the adhesive loosens, gently scrape away the wallpaper with a scraping tool. Move slowly across each section to avoid damaging the wall. Steamers are particularly effective for larger areas or when multiple wallpaper layers are involved. They work well on both drywall and plaster when handled carefully.
For best results, take your time and work systematically to remove all wallpaper layers.
Removing Wallpaper Adhesive Residue
After the wallpaper is removed, some adhesive residue often remains on the walls. Properly cleaning this leftover glue is key to preparing the surface for new paint or wallpaper.
Clean the Walls with Warm Water and a Sponge
Start by mixing warm water with a mild detergent. Use a soft sponge to gently scrub the adhesive residue. Warm water helps break down the sticky glue without damaging the wall underneath.
Work in small sections, ensuring all the adhesive is removed. For tougher spots, let the water sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. This step ensures the walls are clean and ready for any new finish.
Use a Gentle Scraper for Stubborn Adhesive
If adhesive spots remain, use a gentle plastic scraper to lift them without scratching the wall. Apply light pressure and scrape at an angle to avoid gouging the surface.
For extremely stubborn patches, dampen the area again with warm water and detergent. Let it soak, then scrape carefully. This combination helps dissolve and lift the glue effectively.
By thoroughly removing all residue, you’ll create a smooth and clean surface, ready for painting or new wallpaper installation.
Final Wall Preparation
Once the wallpaper and any adhesive residue have been removed, the final step is preparing your walls for a smooth and flawless finish. Addressing rough spots and sealing the surface will make your walls ready for paint or new wallpaper.
Sand Rough Patches
After wallpaper removal, you might notice rough patches or small imperfections left behind. These need to be smoothed out to create an even surface.
Use medium-grit sandpaper to gently sand the uneven areas. Work in circular motions and avoid pressing too hard to prevent wall damage. Wearing a dust mask is a good idea to protect yourself from airborne particles.
If any areas remain slightly rough after sanding, switch to a finer-grit sandpaper for a smoother finish. This step ensures that paint or new wallpaper adheres evenly without highlighting imperfections.
Once sanding is complete, wipe the walls with a damp cloth to remove dust. A clean, smooth wall creates the perfect foundation for the next stage of your project.
Seal with Primer if Needed
After sanding, consider applying a primer to prepare the wall surface further. Primer helps paint adhere properly and can hide any leftover adhesive stains or discoloration.
Choose a primer that matches your wall type and final goal. Water-based primers are ideal for most interior walls and dry quickly. For walls with stains, moisture issues, or high humidity, an oil-based primer provides added durability and protection.
Applying primer ensures an even, polished finish and improves the longevity of your new paint or wallpaper.
Tips for Handling Stubborn Wallpaper
Some wallpaper can be especially difficult to remove, requiring extra care and patience. Using the right methods will make the process easier and help prevent wall damage.
Work in Small Sections
Removing wallpaper in small sections is often more efficient and manageable. Focus on one area at a time, applying steam or a wallpaper removal solution as needed. This approach allows you to address each section thoroughly without the adhesive drying again.
Working this way also keeps the mess contained and makes cleanup easier. Paying attention to smaller areas reduces the risk of spreading adhesive residue or missing stubborn spots.
Avoid Excessive Force to Prevent Wall Damage
It’s important to be patient and avoid using too much force when dealing with stubborn wallpaper. Aggressive scraping or pulling can scratch or tear the wall surface, leading to repairs later on.
Choose gentle tools, such as plastic scrapers, to minimize the risk of damage. If a section won’t budge, reapply steam or wallpaper remover to soften the adhesive further before trying again.
Taking your time and working carefully preserves the wall’s condition, leaving a smooth surface that’s ready for painting or new wallpaper.
Transform Your Walls with ONiT Painting
Ready to say goodbye to outdated wallpaper and give your walls a fresh, clean start? ONiT Painting takes the hassle out of wallpaper removal, ensuring smooth surfaces and professional results every time. Whether it’s for your home or commercial property, our skilled team handles every step with care, so you can focus on enjoying your updated space. Contact ONiT Painting today and let us bring new life to your walls with expert wallpaper removal service and attention to detail.
Chris Elliott is the Founder and President of ONiT Painting, a fast-growing residential and commercial painting contractor in Indianapolis. With over two decades of leadership experience, Chris also leads an exclusive mastermind group for contractor business owners and CEOs. A U.S. Army combat veteran, Chris applies his military background and passion for team development to his entrepreneurial success.
