Looking to update your home with a fresh new look? Stripping wallpaper is a great way to do so! This process can seem daunting, but we promise it’s not as bad as it looks. Follow our simple steps, and you’ll have that wallpaper off in no time. Let’s get started!
Gather your supplies
Having the right supplies is vital when embarking on a job to strip old paint or wallpaper. A scoring tool, putty knife, and stripping solution ensure you have everything you need to tackle the job efficiently. Scoring tools are best used for stubborn glue-on papers and wallcoverings as they make scores along a wall’s surface—making it easier to remove. Putty knives help smooth away any uneven surfaces along the wall—pried up by the scoring tool—for an even finish. Finally, a stripping solution can help remove paint, wallpaper glue, and other materials stuck on walls. Making sure your project is prepared with these tools makes it much simpler when it comes time to do the work.
Score the wallpaper with the scoring tool to create small holes in the paper
Scoring wallpaper is a great way to make small holes in the paper, allowing for easier removal. It is also useful when you want to add new wallpaper over old wallpaper, as it weakens it, so you can get rid of the bubbles created if you apply the new wallpaper directly on top of the old. Additionally, scoring helps to ensure that your new wallpaper will adhere adequately over the entire surface, which adds a beautiful, smooth look to the finished product and provides better insulation and temperature control in the room. With just a few simple strokes using a scoring tool, you can create those small holes necessary for successful wallpapering.
Apply the stripping solution to the wallpaper using a sponge or brush
Stripping wallpaper can be daunting, but it becomes easier once you know the right technique. Applying the stripping solution is a crucial step in the wallpaper-removal process. You should use a sponge or brush to cover the wallpaper with the solution entirely and evenly. To avoid streaks on finished walls, use long strokes and ensure that each stroke overlaps the others so that no bare spots are left uncovered. Let the stripping solution work for some time before peeling off the paper to ensure the best results. With patience and expertise, you can get rid of old wallpaper quickly!
Use the putty knife to scrape off the wallpaper from the wall
So you’ve decided to give your bedroom a makeover and create a new look – the first step is to rid your wall of the old wallpaper. Using a putty knife is one of the most effective and efficient ways. When grabbing your putty knife, selecting one with a comfortable handle and a pointed edge is essential to easily fit it between the seam of the wallpaper and the wall itself. This will ensure that all remnants have been scraped off, leaving your wall ready for its décor upgrade.
Rinse off any leftover residue with warm water and soap
The best way to ensure dishes, flat surfaces and cooking gear is left squeaky clean is to rinse any leftover residue with warm water and soap. After every use or cleanup, you can be sure that any oil or food particles have been removed thoroughly. This will not only make kitchen tasks more manageable in the future, but it will also ensure that no germs potentially stuck to the residue have been given a chance to spread. Completing this single step in your cleaning routine could save you time.
Repeat steps 2-5
Depending on the condition of your walls, removing wallpaper may take a lengthy amount of time and labour. To ensure the job is done correctly, it’s essential to use a patient and methodical approach when tackling the task. After scraping away at the wallpaper with a putty knife or specialized scraper, apply medium heat from a steamer or hairdryer for up to two minutes before trying again. If multiple layers are involved, you may have to repeat this process (steps 2-5) multiple times until all the wallpaper is removed. Additionally, if areas still have old adhesive residue, gently scrub them with warm soapy water until it’s gone. Taking time during this step in your project will help you avoid costly mistakes and take pride in an excellent job well done.
Conclusion
You can remove wallpaper from your walls with a bit of elbow grease. Following the steps above, you can strip away old wallpaper and prep your walls for a new paint job or wallcovering. Scoring the wallpaper creates small holes that help the stripping solution penetrate and loosen the paper, so it’s easier to scrape off. Be sure to rinse any residue left behind after stripping with warm water and soap. With patience and perseverance, you’ll have newly naked walls in no time!
