# How to Remove Old Hard Masking Tape From a Painted Surface
Professional painters recommend that masking tape be removed within a few hours after applying. However, sometimes tape removal is forgotten until it has dried out and hardened. Or, you may have moved into a new home and found bits of old hard masking tape and residue on the walls. A few household items can help you get it off the wall without causing damage to the surface.
Things You'll Need
- Non-metal scraper or putty knife
- Blow dryer
- Turpentine
- Clean cloth
Instructions
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1
Place the tip of the scraper between the wall and tape. Gently scrape to remove as much tape as possible. Avoid using too much pressure to prevent chipping at the paint.
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2
Turn on the blow dryer and run it along the tape. The heat of the dryer should soften the adhesive enough for you to scrape most of the tape off the wall.
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3
Pour some turpentine onto the cloth. Rub the cloth along the surface to remove adhesive and loose tape that remains stuck to the wall.
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1
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