How to Remove Old Wallpaper: Methods That Work

11.04.2024 13:10

There is an opinion that when gluing new wallpaper, it is not necessary to remove the old one.

Previously, when there was nothing to choose from except paper covering, this method was used.

With the current range of products, when the consumer is offered a large selection of wallpapers made from different materials, leaving old wallpaper is irrelevant.

When using modern wall coverings, if you do not get rid of the old wallpaper, creases may occur, bubbles may appear, and eventually, the newly pasted canvas will fall onto the floor.

Preparatory work

Before you begin removing old wallpaper, you need to prepare the room for this work.

wallpaper
Photo: © TUT NEWS

This will save time on cleaning the surfaces of all objects in the room.

It is necessary to free the room from furniture, as it is very problematic to remove dust from it. In addition, space will be freed up for repair work.

Furniture that remains in the room must be completely covered and protected from dust. Skirting boards screwed to the walls should also be removed for a while.

Particular attention should be paid to sockets. The room must be de-energized.

The entrance door should also be covered with a protective covering, especially if it is ennobled. When wiping off dust after work, scratches may remain.

It is advisable to prepare the necessary things for carrying out the work in advance. For the work you will need:

• container with water;
• sprinkler;
• rags;
• knife and spatula.

Dry method

For dry wallpaper removal, you will need a stepladder. From above, lift the edge of the old wallpaper, carefully, trying not to tear it, lift it with a tool.

You shouldn't yank the wallpaper sheet sharply. The putty may come off along with the paper.

Wet method

Suitable for any type of coating. First, you need to prepare a mixture that will be applied to the old paper. Add vinegar or some detergent to the water. This will help soak the old glue and soak the paper evenly.

After preparing the liquid, it is necessary to perforate the top layer. This will help to evenly soak the old canvas. It is most convenient to use a special roller. Then you should generously cover the entire surface with the prepared liquid.

You can use a sponge, cloth or sprayer. In about 20 minutes the canvas will be completely soaked. It is necessary to hook the top edge of the wallpaper with a sharp spatula and carefully remove it from the wall.

Thus, work is done with each strip. It is advisable to immediately put the removed canvas in a garbage bag. Otherwise, the wet glue will dry again and you will have to tear the wallpaper off the floor.

It is very difficult to remove wallpaper that was glued with PVA glue. To do this, you need to prepare a special solution that includes water, laundry soap and vinegar.

Special compositions and steam

In modern stores you can find products for removing old wallpaper. In this case, the liquid must correspond to the type of wallpaper that needs to be removed.

Using the instructions, the composition must be diluted to a certain consistency, and then applied to the wall surface.

You can also use devices that emit hot steam. Under its influence, the old wallpaper gets wet.

Previously, we wrote about what items should not be placed in the refrigerator.

Author: Valeria Kisternaya Editor of Internet resources

Content
  1. Preparatory work
  2. Dry method
  3. Wet method
  4. Special compositions and steam