Removing old wallpaper can be quite a labor-intensive task, especially if it was put up several years ago.
However, with the right approach and a few helpful tips, you can complete this task quickly and without any hassle.
Prepare the premises
Before you start removing wallpaper, it is important to prepare the room.
Protect floors, furniture and other surfaces to avoid damage from water or glue.
Use waterproof film or thick fabrics to cover floors and furniture.
Assess the condition of the wallpaper
Before you start removing wallpaper, determine its condition. If the wallpaper is already old and damaged, it may come off the walls without much effort.
In this case, you can try to separate the wallpaper from the wall with your hands, starting from the corner.
Peel off the top layer of wallpaper
If the top layer of wallpaper is newly installed or firmly adhered, try using a knife blade or putty knife to gently pry the top layer away from the backing.
Start in a corner and move slowly along the wall, carefully lifting the wallpaper.
Wetting the wallpaper
If the wallpaper is difficult to remove from the wall, it may need to be wetted. Use a mixture of water and regular laundry detergent or a special wallpaper wetting agent.
Apply this mixture to the wallpaper with a brush or spray and leave for a few minutes. The water will soften the glue and the wallpaper will come off more easily.
Use the steam engine
A steam machine can make the process of removing wallpaper much easier. It creates hot steam that penetrates the wallpaper and softens the glue.
Move the steamer along the wall, gradually removing the wallpaper. However, be careful not to stay in one place for too long, so as not to damage the wall.
Use wallpaper stripper
If all other methods do not work, you can use a special tool - a wallpaper remover.
This tool looks like a spatula with replaceable blades and will help you carefully separate the wallpaper from the wall. It can also be used to remove any remaining glue.
Removing glue
After removing the wallpaper, there may be some glue residue left on the wall. To remove it, use special glue removers or a mixture of water and vinegar.
Apply the mixture to the wall and leave for a few minutes, then rinse with water and wipe the surface with a dry cloth.
Removing old wallpaper can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and the right tools, you can tackle the task.
Remember to be careful not to damage the walls. Good luck with your interior renovation project!
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