How to Remove Wallpaper from Walls: A Comprehensive Guide

• Muhammad Zeeshan
• No Comments

How to Remove Wallpaper from Walls: A Comprehensive Guide

Removing wallpaper can feel like a daunting task, especially if you’re dealing with old, stubborn wallpaper or layers of adhesive. Whether you’re renovating a room, prepping walls for painting, or simply updating your home’s aesthetic, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. From removing 70s, 80s, and 90s wallpaper to tackling wallpaper glue and paste, we’ve got you covered.

pexels

Why Remove Wallpaper?

Wallpaper removal is often necessary for several reasons:

• Outdated designs: Vintage wallpapers from the 70s, 80s, or 90s may no longer suit your style.
• Damage: Peeling, bubbling, or moldy wallpaper needs to be replaced.
• Preparation for painting: A smooth, wallpaper-free surface is essential for a flawless paint job.
• Home improvement: Removing wallpaper is often the first step in a larger renovation project.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before starting, gather these essential tools and materials:

• Plastic drop cloth (to protect floors)
• Painters tape (to cover outlets and switches)
• Wallpaper scraper or putty knife
• Wallpaper scoring tool (to puncture the wallpaper for better penetration)
• Steamer (optional but highly effective)
• Wallpaper stripper (chemical or DIY mixtures)
• Sponge and bucket (for cleaning adhesive residue)
• Trash bags (for disposing of old wallpaper)
• Ladder (for hard-to-reach areas like ceilings)

pexels

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Wallpaper

Step 1: Prepare the Room

1. Clear the space: Remove furniture or cover it with a drop cloth to protect it from debris.
2. Protect floors: Lay down a plastic drop cloth to catch falling wallpaper and adhesive.
3. Remove outlet covers: Use painters tape to cover outlets and switches for safety.

Step 2: Test for Removable Wallpaper

Before diving into the removal process, check if your wallpaper is removable:

• Peel a corner: Gently pull at a loose edge. If it comes off easily, you’re in luck!
• If not: Proceed with the following steps.

Step 3: Score the Wallpaper

If the wallpaper doesn’t peel off easily, use a wallpaper scoring tool:

• Run the scorer over the wallpaper in a circular motion to create small holes.
• This allows water, steam, or stripper to penetrate and loosen the adhesive.

Step 4: Choose Your Removal Method

1. How to Remove Wallpaper with a Steamer

Credit: Martin Prescott

Using a steamer is one of the most effective methods, especially for stubborn or multiple layers of wallpaper:

1. Fill the steamer with water and let it heat up.
2. Hold the steamer against the wall for 10-15 seconds to loosen the adhesive.
3. Scrape off the loosened wallpaper with a scraper or putty knife.
4. Repeat until all wallpaper is removed.

Pro Tip: Start at the top of the wall to let condensation drip down and loosen lower sections.

2. How to Remove Wallpaper Without a Steamer

If you don’t have a steamer, try these alternatives:

A. Chemical Wallpaper Stripper

1. Spray the stripper onto the wall, ensuring even coverage.
2. Wait 5-10 minutes for it to penetrate the wallpaper.
3. Scrape off the wallpaper with a scraper.

B. DIY Mixtures

• Fabric softener and hot water: Mix equal parts and apply with a sponge.
• Vinegar and hot water: Mix equal parts for a natural solution.
• Dish soap and hot water: Add a tablespoon of soap to a bucket of water.

Note: DIY methods may require multiple applications for stubborn wallpaper.

3. How to Remove Wallpaper from Plasterboard or Drywall

Be extra cautious with plasterboard to avoid damage:

• Use a steamer or warm water to avoid oversaturating the wall.
• Scrape gently to prevent gouging the surface.

Step 5: Remove Wallpaper Adhesive

After stripping the wallpaper, you’ll likely have leftover adhesive:

1. Mix dish soap with hot water.
2. Wipe the walls with a sponge to remove residue.
3. Rinse with clean water and let dry.

Step 6: Prep Walls for Painting or New Wallpaper

Once the walls are clean and dry:

• Sand any rough areas to create a smooth surface.
• Apply a primer to ensure even coverage for paint or new wallpaper.

Tips for Removing Stubborn Wallpaper

• For painted-over wallpaper: Score the surface before applying a stripper or steamer.
• For ceilings: Use a ladder and work in small sections to avoid fatigue.
• For vinyl wallpaper: Peel off the top layer first, then remove the backing.
• For 70s, 80s, or 90s wallpaper: Older wallpapers may require extra effort, so be patient and persistent.

Common Challenges and Solutions

1. How to Remove Wallpaper Glue from Walls

Wallpaper glue can be stubborn, but these methods work:

• Use a mixture of dish soap and hot water to scrub the walls.
• For tougher glue, apply a commercial adhesive remover or vinegar solution.

2. How to Remove Wallpaper from High Walls or Ceilings

• Use a sturdy ladder and work in small sections.
• A steamer or warm water works best for hard-to-reach areas.

3. How to Remove Wallpaper Without Damaging Walls

• Avoid oversaturating the walls, especially plasterboard.
• Scrape gently to prevent gouging or tearing the wall surface.

FAQ Section

1. How do I remove wallpaper glue from walls?

Mix dish soap with hot water and scrub the walls with a sponge. For stubborn glue, use a wallpaper stripper or vinegar solution.

2. Can I remove wallpaper without damaging plaster walls?

Yes! Use a steamer or warm water and scrape gently to avoid damaging the plaster.

3. How do I remove wallpaper from a ceiling?

Work in small sections and use a ladder for safety. A steamer or warm water works best for ceilings.

4. What’s the easiest way to remove 70s, 80s, or 90s wallpaper?

A steamer is the most effective tool for older wallpapers. If unavailable, try a chemical stripper or DIY fabric softener mixture.

5. How do I remove wallpaper paste residue?

Use a mixture of dish soap and hot water, or a commercial adhesive remover.

6. How to Remove Wallpaper That Has Been Painted Over

Score the painted surface to allow steam or stripper to penetrate. Use a steamer or chemical stripper for best results.

7. How to Remove Wallpaper from Kitchen or Bathroom Walls

Follow the same steps, but ensure proper ventilation when using chemical strippers or steamers.

Conclusion

Removing wallpaper doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right tools, techniques, and a bit of patience, you can strip wallpaper quickly and efficiently. Whether you’re dealing with 70s wallpaper, wallpaper glue, or painted-over wallpaper, this guide has you covered.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your space. Remember to take your time, especially with stubborn or older wallpapers, and don’t hesitate to try different methods if one doesn’t work.

Ready to tackle your wallpaper removal project? Share your progress and tips in the comments below!