Wallpaper Removal Problems

Wall Gouges

• One technique to remove wallpaper involves scraping the paper with a knife to remove the paper, either while it is dry or after it has been soaked with water. A sharp knife, razor or scraper can cause gouges in the drywall behind the paper if you slip while scraping away the wallpaper. To avoid wall gouges, take your time and scrape carefully, or choose another removal technique, such as steaming.

Water Damage

• Many wallpaper removal techniques require wetting the wall so that the water soaks beneath the paper to dissolve the glue. If you apply too much water, it can run down the wall and damage floorboards or carpeting. To protect against water damage, tape plastic sheeting to the floor at the wall so that the floor is not exposed to water. Clean up spills as soon as they occur, and only use as much water as necessary.

Stubborn Removal

• Newer types of wallpaper often use an adhesive that is resistant to humidity and moisture, which makes water removal techniques ineffective. To dissolve the water-resistant glue, you can use chemical removers that strip the glue from the wall. Using a steam technique, where you apply hot steam to the wallpaper, may also work to loosen the glue.

Glue Remnants

• After you have removed the wallpaper, spots of glue may remain stuck to the wall. These areas of glue remnants must be removed and smoothed before painting the wall or applying new wallpaper. To remove the leftover glue, moisten the area with water and a sponge. If the glue continues to stick, try moist heat or using soap to remove the glue.

Safety Considerations

• Some wallpaper-removal techniques can result in accidents. If you are using a sharp object to scrape away wallpaper and glue, you may slip and cut yourself. Using steam can result in burns. Chemical wallpaper removals may cause skin damage or allergic reactions and should only be used in well-ventilated areas. Follow manufacturer's directions when removing wallpaper with a removal product, and take safety precautions such as goggles to protect your eyes.