If you are planning to give your home a fresh coat of paint, one of the biggest obstacles you will face is stripping the wallpaper. Old, outdated wallpaper can be a major eyesore and can prevent the new paint from adhering properly to the walls. However, with the right tools, techniques, and a bit of elbow grease, you can learn how to strip wallpaper like a pro. In this blog, we will explore the best tips and tricks to help you successfully remove wallpaper in preparation for interior painting.
It is important to realize that if you are planning on painting yourself, the surface you are painting will determine the outcome of the paint job. If stripping the wallpaper seems overwhelming, contact a professional house painter.
Tips for Stripping Wallpaper to Prepare for Interior Painting
Gather the right tools and materials
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. You will need a wallpaper scorer, a putty knife, a wallpaper scraper, a spray bottle, warm water, and a drop cloth or plastic sheeting to protect your floors and furniture. In addition, it may be helpful to wear gloves and safety goggles to protect your hands and eyes.
Score the wallpaper
Using a wallpaper scorer, puncture small holes in the wallpaper to allow the water to penetrate through to the glue. You can find wallpaper scorers at your local hardware or home improvement store. Be sure to use light pressure so you don’t damage the wall underneath the wallpaper.
Apply warm water
Next, mix warm water and wallpaper stripper according to the instructions on the package. Spray the solution onto the wallpaper in small sections, making sure to saturate the paper completely. Allow the solution to sit for several minutes to soften the glue.
Scrape off the wallpaper
Using a putty knife or wallpaper scraper, gently scrape off the wallpaper starting at the top and working your way down. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as you can damage the wall underneath. If you encounter stubborn areas, spray them with additional solution and wait a few more minutes before trying again.
Clean up
Once you’ve removed all the wallpaper, use warm water and a sponge or cloth to clean the walls of any remaining adhesive residue. Be sure to let the walls dry completely before painting.
Removing wallpaper can be a daunting task, but it’s an important step in achieving a professional-looking paint job. With the right tools and techniques, you can strip wallpaper like a pro and get your walls ready for a fresh coat of paint. So, gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to transform your space!
Mark Powers Painting in Portland, Oregon provides interior and exterior painting. If you have wallpaper, it is essential to remove it correctly for the best interior paint results. Contact the team at Mark Powers Painting today online or phone at (503) 624-1598 to get the job done right!