Stripping Wallpaper

How to Strip and Remove Wallpaper

1. 1 Find a Loose Corner + Pull Upward

   

   If there are no loose corners, use a putty knife to pry one loose and pull. If the paper comes off easily, you’re home free. Just keep pulling until it’s all off the walls.

2. 2 Dilute Wallpaper Remover in Water

   

   According to the manufacturer’s directions, dilute wallpaper remover in water. Wash the walls, working from the top toward the bottom of the walls. Rinse the walls with clear water and let them dry completely.

3. 3 Dilute Wallpaper Remover in Bucket Optional

   

   If the wallpaper doesn’t pull off easily, it’s time to bring in the big guns. Cover the floor with drop cloths, and then dilute wallpaper remover in a bucket of water, following the manufacturer’s directions.

4. 4 Use Perforating Tool Over Wallpaper

   

   Run a perforating tool over the surface of the wallpaper. (It creates holes that let the remover solution penetrate the surface to loosen the adhesive.)

5. 5 Apply Remover Solution with Pressure Sprayer

   

   Use a pressure sprayer to apply the remover solution. Let the solution soak into the covering, according to the manufacturer’s directions. 
   
   

6. 6 Use a Drywall Knife to Scrape Loose Wallpaper

   

   Scrape away loosened wallpaper with a wide drywall knife. Be careful not to damage the wall behind the paper, and make sure you remove any backing paper or other layers.

7. 7 Rinse Residue with Remover Solution

   

   Rinse adhesive residue from the wall with remover solution. Rinse with clear water and let the walls dry.
   
   

8. 8 Check Cleaned Wall Using a Light Optional

   

   TIP: To check the cleaned wall for remaining adhesive, holes, or other flaws, illuminate the wall from the side, using a bright light. Inspect the walls carefully, making sure they are completely clean and repaired before painting or hanging new wallcoverings.