To remove wallpaper from a wall, you can begin by mechanically scraping it off, starting with the initial layer.
Starting with the Scraper Method
A common and often the first step in removing wallpaper is to use a manual scraping method. Begin your wallpaper removal journey with a large, rigid putty knife or scraper. This tool is essential for getting under the edges of the wallpaper. The goal is to lift the wallpaper away from the wall surface so you can either peel it or scrape it off in pieces.
Step-by-Step Scraping Process
Based on this method, here's how you can start removing your wallpaper:
- Gather your tools: You will need a large, rigid putty knife or scraper. You might also want protective gear for floors and yourself.
- Find an edge: Locate a seam or loose edge of the wallpaper on the wall.
- Pry it up: Using the putty knife or scraper, carefully slide it under the edge and pry it up from the wall surface. Work gently to avoid damaging the drywall or plaster underneath.
- Peel or scrape: Simply find an edge to your wallpaper and pry it up using the scraper. If you can, peel the wallpaper down or begin to scrape it off the wall. Once an edge is lifted, try pulling the wallpaper sheet away from the wall. If it peels off in large sheets, this part of the process will be much faster.
- Continue working: Move along the wall, finding new edges or continuing to scrape or peel the lifted sections. Repeat the process until the initial layer of wallpaper is removed.
If your wallpaper comes off in sheets, you're one of the lucky ones. Some wallpapers are designed to be "strippable" or "peelable," making this initial step much easier. If it tears into small pieces or is difficult to lift, you may need additional methods, but starting with the scraper is a fundamental approach to test how easily the paper will release.
Tips for Scraping Wallpaper
- Protect your work area: Cover floors and any nearby furniture with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to catch debris.
- Work in sections: Focus on one manageable area of the wall at a time.
- Be patient: Removing wallpaper can be time-consuming, especially if it's old or multiple layers have been applied.
- Inspect the wall: After removing the paper, you'll need to clean the wall to remove any adhesive residue before preparing it for painting or new wall covering.
This initial scraping step is crucial as it helps determine how the wallpaper will behave during removal and often removes the top layer of paper, making subsequent steps (if needed) more effective.
