You love your house. But sometimes, you can’t stand your wallpaper for whatever reason. It’s time to remove it! When I need wallpaper removal and painting, remember that there are no shortcuts to it. Removing wallpaper can be time-consuming and messy, depending on the type of wallpaper. But with the right tools and techniques, anyone can do it. But if you don’t have the time or patience, it’s better to hire a professional painter to do the work.
Here are the steps for removing wallpaper.
- Identify the type of wall – It’s essential to know the kind of walls in your home before you proceed. You can determine the type of wall by its age.
- Drywall – It is a chalk-like panel used to construct walls and ceilings. It has been used in many homes for the past 50 years or so. It makes a hollow sound when you knock on it. Drywall is usually more delicate than plaster, so be careful not to damage it while trying to remove the wallpaper.
- Plaster – Plaster walls consist of a wooden lath secured to wood-framed walls and covered with layers of plaster. Plaster walls are more solid than drywall and make a dull sound when you knock on them.
- Identify the type of wallpaper – You’ll want to figure out what type is in your house, as it helps you determine the most suitable technique for removing them.
- Strippable – Strippable wallpapers are designed for easy removal without damaging the walls. You also don’t need to use chemicals or do the steaming technique. If you know the wallpaper you’re trying to remove has been hung recently – as most wallpapers today are strippable – you’re in luck.
- Traditional – Traditional wallpapers, especially the untreated and uncoated varieties – can usually be removed and scaped off after getting them damped. Unlike coated and laminated wallpapers, traditional wallpapers are relatively easy to remove.
- Treated wallpaper or wallpaper with vinyl or laminated coating – These wallpapers are installed on bathroom or kitchen walls, as they are moisture-repellent and washable. Coated and treated wallpapers are the most difficult to remove, requiring special techniques to get rid of them.
- Prep the space – Remove drapes, wall decor, framed artwork or photographs, and switch plates. Lay a drop cloth or poly sheet down on the area where you’ll be working.
Remove the wallpaper
- Older uncoated and untreated wallpaper – Fill a garden sprayer with water and wallpaper stripper solution. Spray the solution liberally on the wallpaper. Leave the wallpaper to soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, gently peel away the paper with a dull, putty knife or scraper.
- Coated wallpaper – This type of wallpaper is difficult to remove because it is designed to repel oil or moisture. The best way to remove this type of wallpaper is to use a wallpaper steamer. First, score the wallpaper using a wallpaper removal tool – this step will allow the steam to penetrate into and behind the wallpaper. Next, hold the wallpaper steamer against the wall for 15 to 20 seconds. Finally, use a scraper to lift the paper away from the wall.
- Clean the walls – Use a large sponge and TSP to remove any leftover paper and glue from the walls. Wait a day or two (depending on the weather) before the walls are completely dry before repairs and repainting.
You can choose to follow the procedures above in removing old wallpaper. Or, hire a professional paint contractor who also does wallpaper removal. Here are some of the benefits of hiring professional help for this job:
- Convenience
- Time and money savings
- Minimized risk of damage to the walls
- Clean-up services included
- A wonderfully newly-painted finish
When I need wallpaper removal and painting services, Custom Painting Inc. will work with you to come up with solutions that will give you the desired results. Contact us today for a free estimate to learn more about our painting and other related services!