Removing wallpaper from walls often proves difficult because
it demands careful protection of wall surfaces. Multiple DIY techniques
simplify and make wallpaper removal safer for all users. By properly following
the processes in this post, you can remove any wallpaper effectively without
harming your underlying wall surface and I’m going to show you everything you
need to know.
Tools and Materials Needed for your Wallpaper Removal
Start your wallpaper removal work by collecting all needed
equipment and materials. Basic tools necessary for wallpaper removal differ
between methods, yet standard materials include:
Basic Tools:
- Putty knife or scraper
- Utility knife
- Sponge or cloth
- Bucket
- Plastic drop cloths
- Painter’s tape
For Dry Stripping:
- Fingernails or a scraper tool
- Heat gun (optional)
For the Steaming Method:
- Wallpaper steamer
- Heat-resistant gloves
For Water and Solvent-Based Methods:
- Warm water
- White vinegar or fabric softener
- Spray bottle
- Mild detergent
The Different Wallpaper Types and Techniques Needed for Removal
You need to know the specific wallpaper type in your house
because various removal methods exist:
1. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: This type of wallpaper can be
easily removed by hand without any need for special tools or additional
solutions.
2. Traditional Wallpaper: The standard wallpaper paste
creates an adhesive bond that demands scoring along with a water-based
solution to break down the adhesive before removal.
3. Vinyl-Coated Wallpaper: You must deeply score this type
of wallpaper before exposure to water solutions or steam can dissolve adhesive
beneath the protective vinyl layer.
4. Peelable Wallpaper: After peeling the surface layer off
the wall the remaining backing paper requires soaking before scraping it away.
Different DIY Methods to Remove Your Wallpaper with No Damage to the Wall
You can use different DIY techniques to strip wallpaper from
your walls without causing any damage:
1. Chemical Stripper Method: You can use commercial
wallpaper stripping solutions to break down the adhesive.
2. Steam Method: This process uses a wallpaper steamer to
produce steam that melts the adhesive so removal becomes less challenging.
3. Homemade Solution Method: With this method, you can
dissolve adhesive by mixing dish soap with fabric softener or vinegar in water
solutions at home.
Steps to Removing Your Wallpaper with the Above DIY Methods
1. Preparation
- Take everything out of the room or cover all items with
drop cloths to protect them.
- It is essential to turn off the electricity in the room
because working near outlets and switches during water or steam applications
presents electrical risks.
- You should install plastic sheeting or drop cloths on the
floor to stop debris and moisture from falling.
2. Scoring the Wallpaper
A scoring tool should be used to produce small holes in the
wallpaper surface. The scoring step is necessary to help penetration of removal
solutions or steam through non-porous vinyl surfaces.
3. Applying the Removal Method
i. Chemical Stripper Method:
- Follow the manufacturer guidelines to create the stripping
solution.
- Spray the solution from a bottle or use a sponge to apply
it heavily over the scored wallpaper surface.
- The solution needs to sit for 15-20 minutes according to
standard recommendations.
ii. Steam Method:
- Add water to the tank of the steamer and wait until the
tank reaches steam temperature.
- The steam plate should be held against the scored
wallpaper section for 10 to 15 seconds until the adhesive becomes soft.
iii. Homemade Solution Method:
- Use a spray bottle to blend either white vinegar with
water or fabric softener mixed with warm water.
- Apply the solution generously over the scored wallpaper to
achieve full saturation.
- Soak the pasted section for 15-20 minutes to enable
penetration that dissolves adhesive bonds.
4. Wallpaper Removal
- Lift a seam or corner gently with a scraper or putty
knife.
- Peel away the wallpaper from the wall, exerting firm pressure
on it so as not to tear it.
- Reapply your solution or re-steam the area for a few more
minutes if the area is tough.
5. Washing the Wall After Wallpaper Removal
After wallpaper removal, there is a chance that some
stubborn adhesive will remain on the wall:
- Prepare a cleaning solution of warm water with a few drops
of dish soap, or mix up a vinegar-water solution.
- Wash down the walls with a sponge to get off all loose
adhesive.
- Rinse the walls with clean water to eliminate any soap or
vinegar traces.
- Wipe down the walls with a clean rag and allow them to dry
thoroughly in the open air before applying paint or new wallpaper.
Essential Tips for the Wallpaper Removal Process
1. You want to start with a small area to test what method
works best.
2. Use no force that could damage the wall.
3. When working with non-porous wallpapers, use the scoring
tool to allow liquid solutions to penetrate.
4. Work in sections to prevent the adhesive from drying in
the area before scraping.
5. Always ensure proper ventilation while using chemical
solutions.
Conclusion
By using the above techniques to remove your wallpaper,
there is guaranteed minimal chances of hurting your walls, giving you a whole
new look for your place!
