Wallpaper removal can be time-consuming and, oftentimes, frustrating. We get it, we've been there! But that's why we've curated a list of easy wallpaper removal tips for beginners and experts who may be struggling with stubborn wallpaper.
Say goodbye to the old wallpaper that takes you back to the 60s and hello to a fresh, much-needed change.
Here is a list of tools you'll need to gather first before your DIY wallpaper removal journey:
Even if you've read the horror stories online and you still want to try removing wallpaper yourself, good for you! But trust us, it's not as hard as some people make it out to be, especially if you follow our easy foolproof ways to remove even the peskiest of wallpapers. Here is our step-by-step process:
Some people prefer to completely empty the room they're removing wallpaper in, but you can also just lay plastic drop cloths if you'd prefer to keep everything dry and free from wallpaper glue or loose paper. Once everything is out of the way or you've at least cleared a path to work comfortably and safely, it's time for the fun to begin!
For old paper that's already peeling, start pulling the top layer completely free from the wall and using a scraper tool to remove the leftovers. For removable and peelable wallpaper, you can typically just use a putty knife to loosen the corners and begin peeling, but for well-adhered wallpaper, especially vinyl wallpapers, you'll want to move onto step 3.
Removable wallpaper is a huge craze now, however, if you live in an older home, chances are laminated or vinyl wallpaper was installed instead. This is when this step comes in very handy and it's very easy. Just fill a spray bottle with warm water and spray the section of wallpaper you're going to focus on first. While you're at it, use a sponge to move the water around and get it into all the nooks and crannies to help remove any glue. Let the paper soak for 10-15 before proceeding.
In order to really let the hot water soak right through the paper surface, your best bet is to use a scoring tool. This tool punches small holes in the paper, so you can run it along the wall from floor to ceiling in random patterns to help water seep in. Just remember not to press hard and damage the walls.
It's best to wear gloves before you start peeling to ensure no glue gets on your hands as it can be harmful to your skin. Once they're on, start to pull from the corner and at the same time, scrape parallel to the wall with a scraper or putty knife to help lift it. Throw any wallpaper into a garbage bag or bucket.
While steps 1 through 5 work wonders, old wallpaper can be tricky and may require you to soak and scrape again. If that's the case, repeat all steps again and then move onto the next section of wallpaper.
If you don't have the time to remove wallpaper this way, there is an easier way, however, it can be costly.
A wallpaper steamer does just that: removes wallpaper with steam. After prepping the room with drop cloths, all you need to do is fill the steamer with water. If you want to reduce boiling time, just add hot water, otherwise, it will heat it up for you and once it's steaming, it's ready to be put to use. Each steamer will come with different manufacturer's instructions, but they typically require you to hold the steamer to the wall for approximately 30 seconds and using a scraper/putty knife to help it peel even more. It may still not completely come off, so just simply hold the steamer over difficult areas again.
Also called temporary wallpaper, this type of paper is a great alternative for those not wanting to go through these steps again! Temporary paper is also suitable for renter's not able to permanently make changes to a wall. Not only are there various designs that make a space look amazing, but it's not hard to remove. While you may still need a scraper/putty knife, you just simply pull the paper from the corner and clean the walls afterwards with warm water and soap.
Not everyone has time for removing wallpaper. Or, if you just don't feel it, we don't blame you for that either. That's why Apex Wallpaper is here. We've been assisting homeowners and business owners with all of their wallpaper needs since 1998 in Toronto. Give us a call today and we'll save you the hassle of removing wallpaper yourself. We'll work quickly and efficiently as to not disturb your household or schedule. We also treat every home as though it were our own.