Pro Tested Wallpaper Removal Techniques

Did you get a new home with old wallpaper? Pull it down with our pro-tested wallpaper removal techniques. These tried and tested methods of wallpaper removal will have you painting in no time.

Step 1: Protect

Wallpaper removal is one of the messiest wall covering endeavors you can undertake. Move furniture out of the room if possible. Protect your flooring with flattened cardboard or plastic drop cloths.

Step 2: Pull

If your wallpaper is in bad enough shape to be peeling, use it to your advantage. Start pulling down the pieces. Use a taping knife for the edges you get stuck on. Try your best not to put divots and scrapes in the drywall underneath.

Step 3: Wet

Time to get messy. Use a spray bottle to dampen the wallpaper. There are some pros that swear by steamers to separate the paper from the wall.

Step 4: Scrape

After the water has soaked into the paper and made a superbly sticky, wet mess, start trying to scrape the paper off. Generally, pros say to work left to right or top to bottom. More wetting might be necessary.

Step 5: Wash

Once you’ve pulled down the paper, wash away the remaining paste, primer, or flecks of paper. Use a sponge and a bucket of water to dampen it down. To get the desired results, you may need to repeat this several times.

Step 6: Smooth

Review your work. Check the smoothness now that the wall is clean. If there are glue pieces or sticking paper, paint could cake onto it and cause bumps and lumps in your new walls.

Step 7: Apply

Start to apply your new walls. Once they are dried and smoothed, they are ready to see their new finishing. Apply primer and paint, or start to hang your new wallpaper.

Need a hand?

Here at CertaPro Painters® of Pasadena, CA, we provide a wide range of professional house painting services including drywall repair, wallpaper removal and installation, and color consultation.

Have a look, and if you’re interested, give us a call at 626-584-6111, or schedule a free estimate online today!