Home How To - How To Remove Wallpaper

Woman Removing Wallpaper

Welcome to our Home How To series; this edition focuses on how to remove wallpaper.

Wallpaper is a great way to add character and style to a room, but it can become outdated or damaged over time. If you’re looking to give your walls a fresh new look, the first step is to remove the existing wallpaper. This can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done quickly and efficiently. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps for how to remove wallpaper from your walls.

Check out our video below on removing wallpaper and follow along on Molly’s journey to re-do her daughter’s bathroom!

how to Remove Wallpaper: a Step by Step guide

Step 1: Gather your supplies

Before you start removing wallpaper, you’ll need to gather the right supplies. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

  • Wallpaper scorer
  • Wallpaper stripping solution
  • Putty knife or scraper
  • Bucket of warm water
  • Sponge or cloth
  • Protective goggles and gloves
  • Drop cloth or plastic sheeting
  • Optional – A Steaming Machine.  This may be necessary if your walls were not primed prior to the wallpaper going up.  
Scraping off wallpaper

Step 2: Prep your workspace

Before you start removing the wallpaper, you’ll want to protect your floors and any nearby furniture by laying down a drop cloth or plastic sheeting. You should also wear protective goggles and gloves to avoid any injuries.

Step 3: Score the wallpaper

Using a wallpaper scorer, you’ll need to score the wallpaper to allow the stripping solution to penetrate the paper. This will make it easier to remove the wallpaper. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the scorer.

Step 4: Apply the stripping solution

Next, you’ll want to apply the wallpaper stripping solution to the wallpaper. You can use a spray bottle or a paint roller to apply the solution. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how long to leave the solution on the wallpaper.  These solutions can be picked up at Lowes or Home Depot.

Step 5: Scrape off the wallpaper

After the wallpaper has had time to soak in the stripping solution, you can begin to scrape it off. Use a putty knife or scraper to gently lift the wallpaper from the wall. Be careful not to damage the wall underneath (if possible).  If the drywall is damaged, you will need to plan to do some repair work to the walls before painting or applying new wallpaper.

Home How To Video: How To Remove Wallpaper

Step 6: Clean the wall

Once all of the wallpaper has been removed, you’ll need to clean the wall. Use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the wall with warm water. Be sure to remove any remaining glue or adhesive from the wall.

Step 7: Let the wall dry

After cleaning the wall, let it dry completely before applying any new wallpaper or paint. This will help to ensure that the new wallpaper or paint adheres properly.

Now your walls are ready for a fresh coat of paint or a new wallpaper to be installed.  

The Zahn Group serves buyers and sellers looking to purchase real estate in the Charlotte, NC Metro area as well as in Upstate South Carolina.  We specialize in the South Charlotte area as well as the urban neighborhoods surrounding Uptown.  Contact us to learn more or search our listings.