how to get rid of wallpaper

Wallpaper can add a nice flair to your home or office, but things can get messy when it’s time to get rid of it. Wallpaper removal can be a tedious job, but there are ways to make it go by faster. Here are some tips on how to get rid of wallpaper.

Soaking it

The first step of removing wallpaper is to soak it. You can do this in a few different ways. You can purchase a wallpaper steamer and use it to heat the wallpaper as you go. Or you can use a spray bottle and fill it with warm water mixed with fabric softener. Spray the wallpaper with the mixture and let it soak for at least 15 minutes. If the wallpaper doesn’t come off in one big piece, you can use a scraper to scrape it off in small pieces.

Using a Chemical Stripper

If soaking the wallpaper doesn’t work, you can use a chemical stripper. This is an effective method of removing wallpaper and can be found at most home improvement stores. To use the stripper, mix it with warm water and apply it to the wall with a paint roller. Let the mixture sit for at least 15 minutes, then scrape it off with a wallpaper scraper.

Using a Sponge

Another way to get rid of wallpaper is to use a sponge. Fill a bucket with warm water and fabric softener and dip the sponge into the mixture. Start from the top of the wallpaper and work your way down. As you scrub, the wallpaper should start to come off in big chunks. Make sure to keep the sponge wet at all times.

Using a Steamer

If you want an easier way to get rid of wallpaper, you can rent or purchase a wallpaper steamer. This is a great tool for removing wallpaper quickly and easily. Fill the steamer with water and turn it on. Hold the steamer up to the wall and allow the steam to penetrate the wallpaper. After a few minutes, the wallpaper should start to peel off in large pieces.

Cleaning Up

Once the wallpaper has been removed, it’s time to clean up the mess. Use a vacuum or broom to clean up the pieces of wallpaper that have fallen off. You may also need to use a damp cloth to wipe down the wall to remove any leftover glue or residue. Make sure to clean up any mess that has been left behind.

Preparing the Wall

Once the wall is clean and dry, it’s time to prepare it for paint or another wallpaper pattern. Start by filling in any cracks or holes with spackle. Once the spackle is dry, sand it down so that it’s smooth. Next, use a primer to seal the wall and ensure that the new paint or wallpaper adheres properly.

Painting or Wallpapering

Now that the wall is ready, you can apply a new paint or wallpaper pattern. Be sure to use high-quality paint or wallpaper and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This is the best way to ensure that your wallpaper or paint job will last for years to come.

Conclusion

Removing wallpaper can be a tedious job, but it’s not impossible. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily get rid of your wallpaper and have a fresh, new look in no time. Soaking the wallpaper, using a chemical stripper, using a sponge, using a steamer, cleaning up, and preparing the wall are all steps that will help make wallpaper removal easier.