We all know the feeling when we walk into a room and cringe at the sight of old wallpaper. Maybe it has just reached the end of its run, or perhaps you want to change things up. Whatever the reason, when it comes to wallpaper – what goes up must always come down.
For some people, the prospect of removing wallpaper is enough to get them reaching for the phone to get the professionals in. However, if you really want to do it yourself, it is quite a straightforward job. So, for all you budding DIYers, here is a guide on how to remove wallpaper easily from drywall.
Preparation Is Key
Book a weekend in your calendar so that you can mentally prepare yourself for the job ahead. Once you have got your mind in the game zone, then you can start to prepare the rooms and surfaces for the wallpaper removal. Remove any furniture and wall decorations before you get started, and remember to cover the floor as that will make it easier to clean up later.
Finally, you will want to make sure you know what kind of paper you are dealing with. The type of wallpaper will determine the kind of tools you’ll need for the job. For example, you will need to use a chemical stripper on traditional wallpaper, while a putty knife will do the job if it is strippable paper.
Also, remember at this stage that you are removing the paper from drywall, so don’t go over the top with the water.
Get Your Tools Together
Once all the surfaces are covered with plastic sheeting, and you have figured out what kind of wallpaper you have, then you will be ready to start. Make sure that you have the right tools for the job. If you are unsure what you need, then make sure you speak to an assistant in the hardware store before you get started, as it will save your time and money.
Typically, you will need some or all of the following:
- Painter’s tape
- Putty knife
- Scraper
- Scoring tool
- Bucket
- Hot water
- Chemical stripper
- Ladder
Get Started – Removing Strippable Wallpaper
If you have strippable wallpaper, then the job will be much easier. Start by loosening the corners of the paper with a putty knife. Once you have some loose edges, you should pull the paper from the wall. Keep your hands as close to the wall as possible to avoid the paper ripping. Repeat for all areas of the wall, and then clean the walls with warm soapy water to remove any remaining paper residue. You will want to make sure the wall is completely dry before painting or applying the new wallpaper.
Get Started – Removing Traditional Wallpaper
If you are dealing with traditional wallpaper, then you have a long job ahead of you. The first thing you will need to do is mix the chemical stripper with water and then decant into spray bottles.
Then spray the stripper onto a small section of paper, allowing it to absorb into the paper. After a few minutes, you can use a putty knife to peel the paper off the wall carefully. Be gentle as you don’t want to damage the surface of the wall. You can then repeat for all other parts of the wall.
Finally, once all the wallpaper is removed, you will need to give the walls a good clean with warm soapy water.
Don’t Have The Time?
If this article has left you in a cold sweat, then it might be a good idea to call in the professionals. Give us a call today, and we will only be happy to help alleviate your pain!