Removing paper, typically wallpaper, from a wall involves a step-by-step process starting with preparation, then addressing the paper itself, and finally cleaning the adhesive residue.
The general process includes clearing the area, preparing the paper for removal, using specific methods to loosen it, and cleaning up the leftover glue.
Steps for Removing Wallpaper
Removing wallpaper can be a manageable project if approached systematically. Here are the key steps based on common practices:
Step 1: Clear the Room & Protect the Floors
Begin by moving everything away from the walls in the room. This gives you plenty of room to move around safely. It's crucial to protect your floors from water, adhesive, and debris. Use drop cloths or plastic sheeting to cover the entire floor area adjacent to the walls you'll be working on.
Step 2: Pry Up the Wallpaper
Often, you can start the removal process by prying up an edge of the wallpaper, typically at a seam or in a corner. A putty knife or scraper can be helpful for this. If the wallpaper is peelable, you might be able to pull off large sections of the top layer.
Step 3: Use a Wallpaper Scoring Tool
For wallpaper that doesn't peel easily, or if only the top layer comes off leaving a backing, you'll need to score the surface. A wallpaper scoring tool creates tiny perforations in the paper. These small holes allow your removal solution (used in the next step) to penetrate the paper and reach the adhesive beneath.
Step 4: Methods of Removing Wallpaper
Once the paper is scored, various methods of removing wallpaper can be applied to loosen the adhesive. The most common involves applying a liquid solution to saturate the paper backing and adhesive.
- Soaking: Apply warm water, often mixed with a stripping solution or fabric softener, using a spray bottle, sponge, or paint roller.
- Allow the solution to soak into the paper for the recommended time (usually 10-20 minutes).
- Begin scraping the loosened paper from the wall using a wide putty knife or wallpaper scraper. Work in small sections.
The specific method and solution needed can depend on the type of wallpaper and adhesive used.
Step 5: Remove Wallpaper Adhesive
After the wallpaper is removed, you will likely find a layer of stubborn adhesive left on the wall. It's important to remove wallpaper adhesive thoroughly before repainting or applying new wall covering.
- Apply your removal solution again to the adhesive residue.
- Scrape off the softened glue using a clean scraper, sponge, or scrub brush.
- Wipe down the wall with clean water to remove any remaining residue.
- Allow the wall to dry completely before proceeding with any wall treatments.
Following these steps will help you effectively remove paper from your walls, preparing them for the next finish.
