Problem: Many older homes have non-peelable wallpaper that is difficult and messy to remove.
Solution: New tools and materials can make wallpaper removal a much easier process.
Equipment list:
Paint tray
Roller with thick nap
Paintbrush
Wallpaper removal gel
Utility knife
Scoring tool
Putty knife
Fine-grit sandpaper
Sponge
Fiberglass drywall repair tape
Safety glasses
Rubber gloves
The traditional method for removing wallpaper involves using a steamer which can be rented from most equipment supply stores to loosen the paper from the wall. A newer method involves spraying a liquid-based remover onto the wallpaper. Although both methods are effective, they tend to be quite messy and time-consuming.
A new product is now available that uses an enzyme-based gel to dissolve wallpaper glue. This product is not only faster to use, but it also makes much less mess.
Remove the old wallpaper
- Score the surface of the wallpaper. Although you can use a utility knife to score the wallpaper, you must be careful not to cut through the paper and into the wall. An easier method is to use a wallpaper-scoring tool, which is specifically designed to score wallpaper. This tool has notched teeth that perforate and lift the wallpaper as they roll along it.
- After you have scored the surface of the wallpaper, use a utility knife to score along the trim and along cabinets.
- Use a paint roller with a thick nap to apply the gel to the wall. Be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses, because the gel can spatter. Use a paintbrush to apply the gel to corners and trim areas.
- Allow the gel to soak into the wallpaper for 20 or 30 minutes, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- After the glue loosens, start at a corner and slowly pull away the old paper. Be careful not to rip any of the paper covering of your wall board.
- Use a putty knife to remove any remaining glue and backing from the wall.
- Once the paper and glue are completely removed, clean the wall with a damp sponge.
Prepare the wall for painting or new wallpaper
- If the surface of the wall behind the wallpaper is damaged, you will need to repair it before painting or applying new wallpaper. Use spackling compound for small tears and scratches, and use joint compound for larger holes.
- Place fiberglass drywall tape over any damaged areas to make sure your spackling stays in place as it dries.
- Apply spackling compound to the damaged area and sand it smooth when dry.
- For larger holes, begin by cutting away any loose drywall paper. Then clean out the hole and remove any loose debris.
- Fill the hole with joint compound and place drywall tape over the hole. Then skim the drywall tape with more joint compound. You may need to apply two or three layers of joint compound to completely cover the drywall tape. When the joint compound is dry, sand it smooth and wipe it clean.
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