Removing wallpaper is not a difficult task, but it requires careful execution, especially if you want to avoid damaging the painted wall underneath. Below are some simple methods to remove wallpaper.
Methods for Removing Wallpaper
Safety Precautions when Removing Wallpaper
- Lead-based Paint: Wall paint produced before 1978 may contain lead, which can pose health risks for both adults and children. If you suspect the presence of lead paint, take necessary precautions and wear an N95 mask.
- Wallpaper Steamer: Never fill a hot steamer with water as it can cause burns. Always allow the steamer to cool down completely before refilling it with water.
Materials and Tools Needed
Tools
Steaming Method:
- Wallpaper steamer
- Putty knife
- Clean sponge
- Wallpaper scoring tool
Water and Vinegar or Fabric Softener Solution:
- Spray bottle
- Putty knife
Liquid Stripper:
- Putty knife
- Wallpaper scoring tool
- Clean sponge
Gel-based Stripper:
- Putty knife
- Wallpaper scoring tool
Easy Guide to Removing Wallpaper
Steaming Method
1. Prepare the steamer
Attach the steam plate to the device. Fill the water tank up to the indicated level. Plug in the steamer and turn it on. Wait for the steam to build up.
2. Steam the wallpaper
Place the steam plate on the wallpaper. Press and hold for 15 to 20 seconds. Remove the steamer and set it aside safely.
3. Scrape off the wallpaper and adhesive
Immediately start scraping the steamed wallpaper with the putty knife. Continue steaming and scraping until all the wallpaper is removed.
After removing the wallpaper, steam and scrape off any remaining adhesive. Wipe the wall clean with a damp sponge.
Tip: If steaming alone does not loosen the wallpaper, use a wallpaper scoring tool to perforate the paper. Then, steam and scrape it off.
Vinegar or Fabric Softener Solution Method
1. Prepare the solution
In a spray bottle, mix and gently shake one of the following solutions:
- Equal parts water and white vinegar
- Three parts water and one part fabric softener
2. Saturate the wallpaper
Spray the solution onto a large section of the wallpaper. Once soaked, the paper will start to lift from the wall.
3. Scrape and peel the wallpaper
Gently peel back the soaked wallpaper using the putty knife. If the paper is still adhering, soak it further and try peeling again.
Liquid Wallpaper Stripper Method
1. Apply the liquid stripper
Spray or use a sponge to apply the liquid stripper to a small area. Wait for five minutes to allow the solution to penetrate the paper. Wipe away any drips before they reach the skirting board or floor.
For vinyl wallpaper, start by using a wallpaper perforator tool to perforate the vinyl coating, as it does not absorb the liquid stripper.
2. Peel with a putty knife
Gently slide the putty knife under the wallpaper and lift it up. Avoid scraping or gouging the wall. The wallpaper should come off easily.
Gel-based Wallpaper Stripper Method
1. Apply the gel stripper
Apply the gel stripper by spraying, brushing, or rolling it onto the wallpaper. It is also helpful to perforate the wallpaper with a scoring tool beforehand.
2. Peel with a putty knife
Allow the gel stripper to soak in and keep the surface moist for 15 to 30 minutes. Gel strippers work more slowly than liquid strippers. Use a putty knife to scrape off the wallpaper.
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