Bid a farewell to stubborn wallpaper: Remove adhesive wallpaper like a pro

Guide to Removing Removable Wallpaper

In recent years, adhesive wallpaper has been a very popular choice for renters and homeowners alike. It affords some measure of customization of space without the permanence traditional wallpaper entails. Whether you call it peel and stick, temporary, or wallpaper for apartments, the ends justify the means: it offers a new look that can easily be switched out. However, sometimes, when it is time for a new design, or maybe the move, you may find that removing it isn't quite as easy as just peeling it off. This wallpaper removal guide will take you through the entire process of removing wallpaper, ensuring that the wallpaper is cleanly removed without damaging the surface underneath.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before diving in, it's good to have all the essentials at hand. Being prepared ensures everything will go smoothly and protects you from unnecessary interruptions. Here's a list of what you'll need:

• Plastic Putty Knife or Scraper: A plastic tool is needed to avoid scratching or gouging the walls. A metal putty knife could easily cause such damage, so it's best not to go down that route.
• Hairdryer or Heat Gun: When adhesive needs to be loosened, heat is your friend. For just a little area, a hairdryer will work just fine. However, a heat gun will be more effective for large surface areas. Always use a low setting so as not to damage the paint or drywall.
• Adhesive Remover: These are commercial products manufactured only and specifically to remove wallpaper glue. On the other hand, you might want to stick to a natural remedy: equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
• Sponges or Clean Cloths: Use these for application of the solution and for soaking up any residue. A microfiber cloth is recommended as it stands the highest chance of being kind to the wall and will be very absorbent.
• Bucket: Your cleaning solution is going to need mixing in a bucket-the same bucket will help rinse the sponges.
• Drop Cloths or Plastic Sheeting: Follow through with the protective course for floors and any furniture below by setting drop cloths or plastic sheets.

Preparing the Room

Some amount of logistics will go a long way to make cleanup easier. The first step is to drag anything that can be left away from the work wall. Anything that cannot be moved should be protected with a drop cloth. Put down drop cloths or plastic sheets on the floors beneath to catch wallpaper pieces and drips of the cleaning solution. It is a good idea to pull off all outlet covers and light switch plates too. For moisture protection, halves of outlets and light switches can be secured with painter's tape. This way, by keeping things simple, you will have your room clean and can focus on the removal process.

Dealing with Very Stubborn Residue

Sometimes, no matter how carefully you try to peel the paper, some glue residue is left on the walls. Don’t worry, as this is a very common problem with some ways to solve it.

Commercial Removers

There are countless commercial adhesive removers on the market which are very effective. They are specifically made for breaking down wallpaper glue. Always adhere to the instructions given by the manufacturer. Usually, you apply the remover directly onto the residue, let it act for a few minutes, and wipe off with a clean cloth. Test the remover on a small, inconspicuous area first though to make sure you do not damage the paint.

Home-Made Adhesive Removers

An alternative to commercial removers involves the use of natural, household ingredients. One popular and effective recipe is an equal part mixture of white vinegar and warm water. Place the solution in a spray bottle and spray on the residue. Allow the mixture to stand for a few minutes, then use a sponge or cloth to gently scrub away the glue. Another solution could be one part fabric softener to one part warm water. This also works to dissolve wallpaper glue.

Cleaning and Preparing the Walls for a New Look

Once all wallpaper has been removed, including any leftover glue, the final cleaning should be carried out. Essentially, this step makes sure that the surface is smooth and ready to be either painted or decorated with wallpaper. Fill a bucket with warm water and a few drops of mild detergent. With a soft sponge, wash down all the walls to clean away any layer of dirt or cleaning liquid eventually left. Using a damp cloth, rinse the walls clean and allow complete drying

By doing this, you will remove the renter friendly wallpaper successfully and complete the preparation of walls for their next story. It takes a little time and effort, but finalizing will pave out a clean slate for another decorating project.