How to Remove Wallpaper Without Damaging Your Walls

Removing old wallpaper can feel like peeling away the past—sometimes it comes off in satisfying sheets, other times it fights you every step of the way. The fear of gouging, tearing, or ruining your drywall is real. No one wants to see a simple weekend project turn into a costly repair.

At Lemus Painting, we’ve seen it all. Wallpaper removal is one of the most common ways people prep for a fresh look, whether it’s a bold accent wall or a full interior painting project. But getting it wrong can mean hours of fixing holes or smoothing rough patches before you even open a paint can. Let’s walk through the safest way to get those stubborn sheets down—with your walls (and your nerves) intact.

Understanding Wallpaper Types and What That Means for Removal

Before you grab a scraper, figure out what you’re dealing with. Not all wallpaper is created equal. Some types practically fall off with a gentle tug, while others are more like barnacles clinging to a ship. Here’s a quick guide:

• Peel-and-stick (removable): Modern, often easy to remove dry.
• Vinyl-coated: Moisture resistant, needs extra scoring and soaking.
• Paper-backed: Absorbs water, but can tear easily if over-soaked.
• Fabric or foil: Delicate, requires gentle removal and patience.
• Painted-over wallpaper: Trickiest of all—often needs more aggressive moisture and careful scraping.

Knowing your type will help you pick the right removal method and avoid unnecessary wall damage.

Essential Tools for Wallpaper Removal 🛠️

A few simple tools can make all the difference between a smooth job and a frustrating afternoon. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Putty knife or wallpaper scraper (plastic is safest)
• Wallpaper scoring tool (for vinyl or painted-over paper)
• Garden sprayer or spray bottle filled with warm water
• Sponge and soft rags
• Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
• Painter’s tape
• Bucket for old paper scraps
• Mild wallpaper removal solution (store-bought or a DIY mix of vinegar and water)
• Steamer (for stubborn or old installations)
• Safety gloves and goggles

Prep your space like you’re setting the stage for Concrete Staining near you—protect floors, move furniture, and tape off outlets.

Step-by-Step Removal Process

1. Prep Your Area

Clear the space. Lay down drop cloths. Turn off power at the breaker and remove outlet covers. Tape over any electrical boxes for safety.

2. Test a Small Area

Find a hidden corner or behind a door. Gently lift a seam with your putty knife. If the paper peels off dry, you have removable wallpaper—lucky you! If not, you’ll need moisture.

3. Score If Needed

For vinyl or painted wallpaper, use your scoring tool. Move it in gentle circles. The goal is to create tiny holes for moisture to penetrate—not to carve up your wall.

4. Apply Moisture

Use a spray bottle or sponge to saturate the paper. Let it soak for 10–15 minutes. Don’t flood the wall—too much water can damage drywall seams or plaster.

• For tough jobs, a steamer works wonders. Move slowly and keep the surface damp, not dripping.

5. Scrape Gently

Start at a seam or scored area. Slide your putty knife under the edge and lift. Work in small sections. Keep the blade flat to avoid gouging. If the paper resists, apply more moisture and wait.

6. Remove Adhesive Residue

After the paper is off, you’ll usually find a sticky layer of glue. Sponge it with warm water and your removal solution. Scrape gently until the wall feels smooth.

7. Clean Up

Wipe down the entire area with a clean, damp cloth. Let the walls dry fully—at least overnight—before moving on.

Repairing and Prepping for Paint

Once the wallpaper is gone, your walls might look a little tired. Small tears, nicks, or leftover adhesive are common. Here’s how to get them paint-ready:

• Patch holes or gouges with lightweight spackle. Let dry, then sand smooth.
• Sand rough spots lightly with fine-grit sandpaper. This helps your next coat of paint or primer stick.
• Check for stains: Water stains or discoloration? Seal them with a stain-blocking primer.
• Prime the surface: Fresh drywall or previously wallpapered walls are thirsty. Use a high-quality primer before any painting, especially for specialty finishes like textured painting, cabinet painting, or accent walls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Rushing the soak: Impatience leads to torn drywall paper.
• Scraping too hard: Slow down. Let moisture do the work.
• Skipping adhesive removal: Leftover glue can ruin even the best paint job.
• Not patching damage: Tiny flaws can show through even the thickest paint.

Warning Signs of Wall Damage

Sometimes, wallpaper hides bigger problems. Watch for:

• Bubbling or sagging drywall
• Soft spots (may indicate water damage)
• Cracks that keep growing
• Mold or mildew odors

If you spot any of these, stop and assess. You may need a professional—especially if you’re prepping for a major project like residential painting or specialty coatings.

Quick Safety Checklist ⚠️

• Always turn off electricity before working near outlets.
• Ventilate the room when using commercial removers or steamers.
• Wear gloves and eye protection, especially for ceiling painting or working overhead.
• Watch for signs of lead paint in homes built before 1978. Consult EPA guidelines before attempting removal.

DIY vs. When to Call a Professional

You can absolutely tackle small rooms or simple paper yourself. But large areas, stubborn glue, or signs of wall damage might need a more experienced touch. Lemus Painting regularly helps homeowners with:

• Tricky stairwell or ceiling wallpaper removal
• Lead paint mitigation (following all safety codes)
• Surface prep for textured or specialty finishes
• Repairing underlying drywall or plaster

If your project starts to feel overwhelming, there’s no shame in calling for backup.

What Pros Do on Arrival

A professional crew comes prepared for anything. Here’s what you can expect:

• Assessment: Identify wallpaper type, wall condition, and any hidden issues.
• Protection: Move and cover your belongings like they’re our own.
• Moisture management: Use steamers, removers, and careful timing to minimize wall exposure.
• Safe scraping: Minimize damage, patch as needed, and prep for new paint.
• Expert prep: Walls are sanded, primed, and ready for that flawless finish—whether it’s a specialty coating, mural, or just a classic roller painting.

Prevention & Maintenance

Want to avoid wallpaper headaches in the future?

• Prime walls before future wallpapering. This makes future removal much easier.
• Stick with removable or peel-and-stick options if you like to change things up often.
• Avoid painting over wallpaper. It may seem like a shortcut, but it just makes future work harder.

Costs & Time Factors

Wallpaper removal is rarely a one-hour job. Factors include:

• Room size: Bigger spaces take more time.
• Number of layers: Some homes have wallpaper piled on like layers of an onion.
• Type of adhesive: Old-school glues can be stubborn.
• Wall condition: Damaged or poorly primed walls need more repair.

Expect to spend a full day on a medium-sized room. Professional services can shorten the timeline, especially if you’re prepping for a larger painting or cabinet refinishing job.

When It’s an Emergency

If you uncover:

• Active mold
• Crumbled drywall
• Water leaks
• Heavily damaged surfaces

Pause and call a qualified contractor. Mold, moisture, and structural issues can’t be fixed with a coat of paint. The EPA and National Association of Home Builders both stress the importance of addressing these risks before moving forward.

FAQ

Can I Paint Over Old Wallpaper?

It’s possible, but not recommended. Paint may not adhere well, and seams or bubbles can show through. Proper removal and prep are key for a lasting finish.

How Do I Know If My Wallpaper Has Lead?

Homes built before 1978 may have lead-based paint beneath wallpaper. If you suspect lead, test with a certified kit and follow EPA guidelines, or bring in a pro for safe removal.

What If There’s Drywall Damage After Removal?

Small tears can be patched with spackle and sanded smooth. Major damage, like crumbling or large holes, may need a drywall repair specialist.

How Long Should I Wait Before Painting?

Let the walls dry at least overnight after adhesive removal. Moisture trapped under paint can cause bubbling or peeling.

Local and Seasonal Considerations

Humidity and temperature can affect wallpaper removal and painting. In damp climates, walls may take longer to dry. Winter heating can speed up drying, but be careful of static and dust. Always ventilate well, and if you’re prepping for a big project like deck painting or garage floor painting, plan for seasonal shifts.

Ready to reveal fresh, smooth walls? Whether you want to DIY or need a helping hand, Lemus Painting is here to help you prep for your next painting adventure.

Call Lemus Painting now — or reach us anytime at  877-318-9187 .