How to Remove Wallpaper From Drywall

Score the wallpaper in a circular motion using a scoring tool. Concentrate on one area at a time and use a stepstool or sturdy ladder to reach the upper portions of the wall. Scoring the wallpaper allows the wallpaper removal mixture to penetrate the wallpaper, making it easier to remove.

Apply a wallpaper remover mixture to the wallpaper. You have two options: a liquid wallpaper remover or wallpaper remover gel. If you choose liquid wallpaper remover, pour it into a clean, empty spray bottle. Be careful when spraying the wallpaper so you don't saturate it and soak the drywall underneath. If you choose the gel, apply the gel to the wallpaper with a paint roller, making sure to cover the area evenly. Use a paintbrush for hard-to-reach corners and edges.

Allow the removal product to penetrate the wallpaper. Wait 10 minutes for liquid wallpaper remover and wait 30 minutes for wallpaper removal gel. If you start to peel the wallpaper off and only the top layer is coming off, wait longer.

Peel the wallpaper starting at a corner. Pull slowly and watch carefully that you aren't pulling away any layers of the drywall. If the wallpaper is older or the previous owner didn't prime the drywall before wallpapering, this process can be quite tricky. Work on small sections at a time and use a putty knife to gently remove any wallpaper backing that may remain.

Wash the wall with water and a sponge before moving on to your next project. This helps remove any lingering pieces of wallpaper backing and smoothes out your wall. Use the least amount of water to get the job done.