How to Remove Old Wallpaper Without Damaging Your Walls
The key to removing old wallpaper without damaging your walls is patience: test first, soften the adhesive, and avoid tearing into the drywall paper underneath.
Some wallpaper comes off in large sheets. Other paper, especially older layers applied directly to unprimed drywall, can fight you every inch of the way.
Why Can Wallpaper Removal Damage Walls?
Drywall has a paper face. If wallpaper was hung on drywall that was never primed or sealed, the adhesive may bond directly to that paper face.
When the wallpaper is pulled off, it can take the drywall paper with it, leaving torn, fuzzy patches that need repair before you can paint or re-wallpaper.
What Affects How Hard Removal Will Be?
- The type of wallpaper: Some modern papers are strippable, while older papers often are not.
- Whether the wall was primed: A primed wall usually releases wallpaper more easily.
- How many layers there are: Older homes sometimes have several layers of paper, or paper that has been painted over.
- The wall surface: Plaster and drywall respond differently to moisture and scraping.
- The age of the adhesive: Older adhesive can be harder to reactivate.
The General Removal Process
Every wall is different, but a careful removal usually follows these steps:
- Protect floors, trim, and outlets
- Test a small area to see how the paper and wall react
- Remove the top layer if the paper is strippable
- Soften the remaining backing and adhesive
- Gently scrape without gouging the wall
- Wash off leftover adhesive residue
- Repair any damaged areas and prime before the next finish
Skipping the residue cleanup is a common mistake. Leftover adhesive can cause problems with paint adhesion and new wallpaper later.
What If the Drywall Gets Torn?
Torn drywall paper should be sealed with an appropriate primer before it is patched. Painting or skimming directly over exposed drywall paper can cause bubbling. Once sealed, the area can be skim coated and sanded smooth.
Should You Remove Wallpaper Yourself?
Small, strippable jobs can be manageable for some homeowners. However, it may be worth calling a professional if:
- The wallpaper has been painted over
- There are multiple layers
- You are working on plaster walls
- The paper is in a large room or stairwell
- You plan to install new wallpaper and want the walls properly prepped
Since removal and prep are closely connected, you may also find my article on wall preparation for wallpaper helpful.
Need Wallpaper Removed?
At Namaste Design & Painting, I offer wallpaper removal along with wall repair, priming, painting, and new wallpaper installation, so your walls are ready for whatever comes next. If you are in Columbus or Central Ohio, schedule an in-home consultation.
