How to Remove Wallpaper on Drywall to Prep for Painting

Roll a wallpaper scoring tool over the surface of the wallpaper. This tool makes holes in the wallpaper that allow the removal solution to soak through. The more holes you make, the better the removal solution soaks through, so run the scoring tool over as much of the wallpaper surface as possible.

Apply the wallpaper removal solution to the wallpaper with a paintbrush or roller. Allow this to soak in for the amount of time specified on the label.

Peel off the wallpaper with your hands. For stubborn spots, use a wallpaper scraper tool. These tools have specially fitted shallow blades that allow you to scrape off the wallpaper without damaging the underlying drywall.

Clean up any glue deposits on the face of the drywall with a clean rag dipped in a solution of warm water and dish soap.

Repair any damage to the drywall paper by painting over the damaged area with white shellac. Wait for the shellac to dry as specified on the label.

Apply drywall topping compound to the damaged area. Feather out the compound at least three inches from the damaged area to help hide the repair. Apply as many coats of compound as needed, letting each one dry before the next application, until the area is covered.

Lightly sand the patch and brush primer or sealer over the repaired area prior to painting.