Best Practices for Removing Painted Over Wallpaper

If you discover walls in your new home that were originally wallpapered, and then later painted over, you are probably looking for the fastest way to undo these outdated renovations. However, there is no real “quick fix” or secret method behind removing painted wallpaper; it simply takes a lot of time, effort, and materials, especially compared to a traditional wallpapered wall. Furthermore, if your wallpapered wall is covered in several layers of paint, the best option is to simply replace the drywall altogether.

If this is not an option for you, continue reading to learn the best practice for removing painted-over wallpaper.

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319
Indianapolis Drywall & Painting 317-269-7319

What You Need

If you do not already know how to remove wallpaper, simply review the steps before getting started. What you will see is that it is a very similar process to removing painted wallpaper. You will first need to gather all the necessary items, including:

☑ 3-in-1 Scraper Tool or Broad Knife

☑ Serrated Paper Scoring Tool (or stiff wire brush)

☑ Wallpaper Stripper Solution (or liquid fabric softener mixed with water and vinegar)

☑ Wallpaper Removal Cloth

☑ Ladder or Step Stool

☑ Large Plastic Bucket

☑ 2 Gallons Warm Water

☑ Rubber Gloves

☑ Protective Eye Wear

☑ Drop Cloths or Tarps

What To Do

Keep in mind that you may require new drywall installation if you find that there are several layers of paint on top of the wallpaper. If there are only a few layers of paint, you may be successful at removing it without having to replace the drywall. Once you have all the necessary supplies, you are ready to get your hands wet! Here’s how to get started:

Using medium pressure, score the outer layer on the wall with the paper scoring tool. Too much pressure can damage the wall so take your time on this part. You may also use a thick-bristled wire brush, or both. Choose the tool that you are more comfortable using and that produces the most results.

Once you have scored the paint, spray on your wallpaper stripper solution, focusing on small sections at a time. Then allow the solution to soak into the wall for a few minutes. Spraying too much solution on at once can damage the wall, so don’t be too generous with the spray bottle. If you do not wish to use a commercial wallpaper stripper solutions, you can mix water, vinegar, and liquid fabric softener into a plastic spray bottle instead.

After the solution has soaked into the wall for a few minutes, grab your 3-in-1 scraper tool (available at any local hardware or home improvement store for a low cost), and start with the sharpest edge. Get underneath the painted wallpaper and work slowly to scrape it away. Scraping in alternate directions will help expedite the effects.

Expect this process to take several hours, or even days depending on the drywall or plaster used, the type of wallpaper adhesive, the square footage of the wall, the extent of paint on top of the wallpaper, and much more.  After an abundant amount of dedication, patience, and effort, you will eventually get it all!

And if the Job Proves to Be Too Big…

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Call Drywall by Local Builders at 317-269-7319 when you need professional drywall service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured drywall company that provides residential and commercial drywall work at competitive prices. Call 317-269-7319 to request a free estimate, today.