Things You Should Know about Wallpaper Removal

There are several methods of removing wall-coverings. For instance, there are liquid stripping solutions that we simply need spray on the wall and wait a few minutes. Scrapers that are an absolute must for any paper or fabric backed removal job, and an electric wallpaper steamer that works like magic. The fact remains; there is both the right way, and wrong way of removing wallpapers.

First thing first, determine what kind of wall covering you need to remove.

● Fabric backed vinyl,

● Paper backed vinyl,

● Vinyl coated paper,

● Plain Paper, AKA Paper Papers,

● Non-woven AKA, NW,

Each of these different types of wall-coverings, require using different removal methods. It is true, using liquid spray strippers and a good scraper will make the removal of a single layer of vinyl-coated paper, a relatively easy job. While on the other hand, removing multiple layers of fabric backed and paper-backed wall-coverings, require using a perforator, to allow the steam from a wallpaper steamer loosen the paste.

As we go about removing many types of properly hung wall coverings, liquid spray strippers work well, according to the manufacture, in around 2 minutes; Zinsser’s DIF penetrates and loosens stubborn adhesives. The specially formulated liquid strippers resist run-off, this advancement allows the liquid stripper to work better. Loosening paste without the need of constantly spraying more strippers on the wall, to make removal, and cleaning wallpaper paste residue from the drywall a bit easier.

Remove everything from the wall, light switch and receptacle covers, air return vent covers, artwork, and shelving. Remember to remove all the nails or screws used to hang items on the walls.

Put down drop cloth to protect your floor, and get a trashcan or trash bag set up to collect paper as you remove it

Start at the top of the wall, gently using a perforator, such as the Zinsser 2966 Paper Tiger scoring tool that fits nicely in the palm of your hand. On the other hand, the Warner 250 long handled perforator works well for those hard to reach places.

Working in small areas, where you can easily and safely reach from a platform ladder without overreaching. Check out the link below for more information on things you should know about platform ladders. Perforate the top layer of paper before spraying liquid stripper, or using a wallpaper steamer to loosen paste.

After giving the stripper a couple minutes to loosen the paste, the wallpaper should be ready to peal away. Using a 4-inch scraper, gently scrape the paper away from the wall surface. Immediately while the paste is pliable, quickly wash away any remaining residue with a large damp sponge, and bucket of clean warm water. Remember; it is easier to work from the ceiling, to the floor when using liquid strippers. Limiting your work area to an area a couple feet square helps to ensure success and easy clean up.