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Removing wallpaper is challenging, but it’s essential. It modernizes the interior, reveals surface damage that would go unnoticed, and boosts resale value.
Properly removing wallpaper can be done at home, but it’s a project that requires the right tools and preparation. To ensure a smooth job, follow these tips:
Damaged Walls
There comes a time when wallpaper must go. Whether your child has outgrown the nursery or you purchased an older home that’s covered in geese wallpaper, complete wallpaper removal is a must. But, unlike painting over it, properly removing wallpaper can make your walls look better than they did before.
Plaster walls can withstand the hot water used for wallpaper removal without damage. However, drywall can be sensitive to prolonged contact with water. For this reason, it’s essential to prep the wall before you begin to ensure your success. Ensure the walls are free of dust and dirt by sweeping the surfaces and vacuuming any loose debris. Then, drape the walls in plastic and top it with towels to soak up any excess water.
Once the walls are dry, it’s time to begin the wallpaper removal process. Begin by applying water with a sponge to wet the wallpaper and loosen any adhesive from the wall surface. Then, use a scouring pad to remove any remaining residue from the walls. Finally, sand the walls to smooth them and prepare them for paint or new wallpaper.
While you can tackle wallpaper removal on your own, it’s recommended that you hire a professional wallpaper removal service. Not only will they handle the process more efficiently, but they’ll also help you avoid any mistakes that could damage your walls.
Unpleasant Odors
As any devoted DIYer knows, removing wallpaper can be quite a chore. Whether you’re stripping yellowed vintage wallpaper from your fixer-upper or swapping out that peel ‘n stick palm-leaf pattern in the primary bedroom, removing wallpaper is no easy feat. Furthermore, if done incorrectly, it may result in damage and require lengthy (and costly) fixing.
Luckily, if you choose to remove wallpaper yourself, there are several ways to do it without causing too much pain or frustration. One method is to use a chemical solution, which can be very toxic and requires special safety gear, such as goggles and gloves.
A safer, more natural option is to use water. The glue in most wallpapers is water-based and, therefore, can be easily broken down using a simple solution such as hot water or vinegar. Working in small segments at a time is best to prevent oversaturating the wall.
Another benefit of removing wallpaper is that it allows you to take a closer look at the condition of your walls. You may be surprised to find dings, holes, and cracks that would have otherwise gone unnoticed. If this is the case, making all necessary repairs before coating or adding new wallpaper to the surface is essential.
Mold and Mildew Growth
While wallpaper isn’t a perfect solution for every home, it can add an element of style and color that can be very appealing. But if it’s no longer in the manner or you want to change the look of your room, you’ll need to remove it first. But doing that can only be easy with the right tools and knowledge.
A DIY approach to wallpaper removal involves spraying a solution of water and bleach on the walls. It is effective, but you could damage your walls if you don’t take the proper precautions. For example, if you use the wrong method of scoring your wallpaper, you could damage the surface of your walls or the drywall underneath it.
The most accessible approach to prevent this is to work with a specialized company to remove your wallpaper correctly and prepare the wall for fresh paint. They will know how to remove wallpaper from different materials and will be able to identify any damage that may have occurred under the wallpaper.
Mold and mildew growth isn’t just unsightly; it can also be a health hazard for you and your family. It’s essential to keep mold and mildew from growing in your home, such as using dehumidifiers and fans during humid weather or fixing any leaky areas immediately.
Resale Value
If you plan to put your home on the market at some point, you’ll want your house to look as appealing as possible. It means getting rid of that dated wallpaper and painting the walls. If your home has outdated wallpaper, potential buyers may walk away thinking they must deal with a messy and time-consuming removal process.
While removing wallpaper can be labor-intensive, it’s worth the effort for several reasons. Properly removing wallpaper can drastically improve the air quality in your home, making it healthier for you and your family to live in. It can also help prevent health issues like mold and mildew growth, often caused by wallpaper.
The key to successfully removing wallpaper is using the right tools and techniques. For example, some wallpapers can be easily removed with a scraper and water, while others require a steamer and special solvents.
If you plan to remove your wallpaper, start by scoring or perforating the paper and its backing in sections with a metal putty knife. It will allow water to soak through and loosen the glue. You can then scrape off the wallpaper and sand down the wall to remove any glue grit left behind. If you want to make the wallpaper removal process even more accessible, consider renting or buying a steamer. It will save you a ton of trouble and is a long-term investment that will pay dividends.