Many interior painting jobs first require wallpaper removal, and it’s not always straightforward to know where to start. However, all you need is a little additional insight. Whatever type of wallpaper you have, there’s a tip to help you remove it.

How to Remove Wallpaper

1. Make Preparations

The walls and wallpaper may have excessive glue and water on them. To protect the flooring and furniture in the room from getting messy, cover the baseboard and about two feet of the floor with two layers of plastic sheets and towels. Prevent damage to the electrical outlets by taking off the covers and stretching masking tape over the openings. To be extra safe, go to the main electrical service panel and switch off the room’s electricity entirely. Preparing this beforehand will also let you smoothly transition to interior painting when you finish with the wallpaper.

2. Strip First

Your job will be much easier if you strip the wallpaper off without using water or chemicals, so try that before doing anything else. Carefully slide a putty or utility knife underneath a seam edge and gently pull it down at an angle. If it comes off without leaving a residue, you’re finished. If not, you’re still off to a positive start for your interior painting project, since you can start cleaning the wall and removing the leftover paper. 

3. Use Water

There are a few ways to use water for wallpaper removal. Spray hot water, possibly combined with vinegar, on small sections of the wall to soften the paper and glue and make it easier to peel or scrape off. Alternatively, try mixing warm water with liquid detergent and cellulose paste to make a wallpaper paste. Smear it on the wall, let it sit for about five minutes, and scrape off the paper with your putty or utility knife. You should rinse the surface with water as well once you’re finished.

To guarantee seamless, hassle-free, and expert wallpaper removal that will let you move on with your interior painting project quickly and without damage to your wall, contact JD Painting & Decorating. Located in Lihue, HI, with an additional location in Wailuku, they’re a painting contractor with more than 30 years of experience with painting and staining commercial buildings. They’re also happy to help with exterior painting, roof coating, concrete repairs, and more. Learn more about the services offered by both of their locations by calling (808) 841-7100 or visiting their website.