Removing old wallpaper is one of those tasks best left to others, but if you’re determined to tackle it yourself and save some money, here are a few tips on how to remove wallpaper quickly and efficiently.
Preparation:
Removing old wallpaper is a messy job, akin to painting, so it’s essential to prepare the room properly. Clear the walls of any pictures, move furniture towards the center of the room, and lay down a protective plastic sheeting on the floor.
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While old newspapers may suffice, plastic sheeting is preferable as it’s more durable, especially considering water will be involved. Hardware stores offer affordable plastic sheeting with pre-applied masking tape to secure it to the baseboards.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Pre-soak the Wallpaper
Before attempting to remove the wallpaper, it’s necessary to soak it thoroughly. Apply water to the walls using a spray bottle, or for more efficiency, use a brush or paint roller. Ensure to wet the corners and edges around doors thoroughly, as any dry patches may cause the wallpaper adhesive to stick to the wall. Depending on the type and age of the wallpaper, as well as the adhesive used, the ease of removal may vary. It’s advisable to conduct a small test in a discreet area.
Peeling the Wallpaper
Once the wallpaper is adequately soaked, attempt to peel it from one corner. If the wallpaper and adhesive come off easily, you’re fortunate. However, some wallpapers, particularly multi-layered ones, may require more effort. In cases where only one layer comes off, leaving the base layer and adhesive intact, refrain from continuing. Attempting to remove both layers simultaneously is preferable, as removing only the top layer leaves the base layer and adhesive, necessitating scraping with a putty knife.
Removing Adhesive Residue
If traces of adhesive remain on the wall after removing the wallpaper, add a small amount of dishwashing detergent or vinegar to the water. Reapply this solution to the adhesive residue, allowing it to sit for a few minutes before carefully scraping it off with a putty knife. Exercise caution to avoid damaging the wall surface, particularly if it’s sensitive due to moisture exposure.
Cleaning the Walls
Once the wallpaper and adhesive residue are removed, wipe down the walls with a damp cloth soaked in clean warm water to remove any remaining adhesive or cleaning solution. Allow the walls to air dry, which may take varying amounts of time depending on external temperature and humidity levels.
Preparing for Painting
If you plan to paint the walls after removing the wallpaper, it’s advisable to leave the protective sheeting in place until painting is completed. After the walls have dried sufficiently, inspect them for any imperfections, such as minor dents or uneven surfaces. These can be easily corrected with a suitable wall filler compound, followed by sanding with fine-grit sandpaper. By following these steps diligently, you’ll likely be pleasantly surprised at the excellent results achieved post-painting, often surpassing expectations.
Foto: Freepik