How to Remove Wallpaper

Remember, it is best to strip off old wallpaper before applying new wallpaper, otherwise the seams and pattern of the old wallpaper could show.

Before starting, test a small area to see if it simply peels right off.

If the wallpaper peels off leaving only the glue on the wall:

Step 1. Wash off the old glue by wiping down the entire wall with clean water.
Step 2. Follow the instructions for How to Prepare Walls

If wallpaper will not come off or only tears in small strips:

Materials:

     Wallpaper knife
     Perforating tool or wallpaper scratcher
     Wallpaper removal solution
     Drop cloths
     Solution sprayer
     Bucket
     Sponge

Step 1.
Spread drop cloths over the entire area and then mix the removal solution with hot water in a spray bottle as recommended by the manufacturer.

Step 2.
Pierce the surface of the wallpaper with a perforation tool. This will allow the removal solution to seep behind the wallpaper and loosen the adhesive.

Step 3.
Spray the removal solution on liberally and allow it to soak into the wallpaper for the recommended amount of time. Note: Don't rush the process. Let the solution do most of the work.

Step 4.
Once the wallpaper is loosened, peel it away with a wallpaper knife, being careful not to gouge the plaster. Be sure to remove all of the backing paper.

Step 5.
Some older wallpaper can cling so some patches may need to be soaked again with the removal solution to loosen the adhesive.

Step 6.
Finally, spray any residual adhesive with the solution and wipe down the entire wall with clean water and prepare walls.

Step 7.
Allow the surface to dry thoroughly, and you're ready to redecorate.

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