How to take down wallpaper border
To take down wallpaper border, score the border with a utility knife, then spray it with a mixture of hot water and dish soap or a commercial stripper. Let it soak, then peel it off with a putty knife or scraper. Clean residue with a sponge and wash the wall.
Removing a wallpaper border is a manageable DIY project that can dramatically update a room’s look. Most borders, especially older ones, can be removed with basic household tools and a bit of patience. The key is to soften the adhesive enough to allow you to peel the border away cleanly.
Before you start, gather your supplies. You’ll need a scoring tool (like a utility knife or a specialized wallpaper scorer), a spray bottle, hot water, a few drops of dish soap, a putty knife or scraper, a sponge, and potentially a commercial wallpaper stripper. Protect your floors and furniture with drop cloths or old newspapers.
Score the wallpaper border
The first step is to create small perforations in the wallpaper border. This allows the removal solution to penetrate the paper and reach the adhesive underneath. Use a utility knife, a sharp razor blade, or a dedicated wallpaper scoring tool. Be firm but gentle; you want to pierce the paper, not gouge the drywall behind it. Score in a crisscross pattern or small dots every few inches along the entire length of the border. Pay extra attention to the edges, as these are often sealed tighter.
Apply the removal solution
Mix your removal solution in the spray bottle. A simple and effective solution is a mixture of hot water and a few drops of liquid dish soap. For tougher adhesives, you can use a commercial wallpaper remover, following the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Alternatively, a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and hot water can also work. Some people find success with fabric softener mixed with water, but test this in an inconspicuous area first as it can sometimes stain.
Let the solution soak
Generously spray the scored border with your chosen solution. Ensure the entire border is well-saturated. Avoid over-saturating the drywall, especially if it’s unprimed. Allow the solution to sit for at least 10-15 minutes, or longer if needed. This is crucial for softening the adhesive. You should see the border start to bubble or loosen slightly. If it still feels dry or stiff, apply more solution and wait a bit longer. Patience here prevents damage later.
Peel and scrape the border
Once the adhesive is softened, begin peeling the border away. Start at a seam or a loose edge. Use a putty knife or a wide scraper held at a low angle to gently lift and pull the border away from the wall. Work slowly and deliberately. If the border resists, spray it again with the solution and let it soak further. Avoid using excessive force, which can tear the drywall paper or create gouges. For stubborn sections, you may need to reapply the solution multiple times.
Remove adhesive residue
After the border itself is removed, you’ll likely have leftover adhesive residue on the wall. This needs to be cleaned off before you can paint or apply new wallpaper. Use a sponge dipped in warm water and a bit of dish soap to gently scrub away the residue. For stubborn spots, you might need to use a commercial adhesive remover or a paste made from baking soda and water. Rinse the wall thoroughly with a clean, damp sponge to remove all traces of soap or stripper.
Clean and prepare the wall
Once all the border and adhesive are gone, wash the entire area with clean water and a sponge to remove any remaining solution. Let the wall dry completely. Inspect the wall for any damage, such as small holes or gouges. Fill any imperfections with spackling paste, let it dry, and then sand it smooth. A final wipe-down with a tack cloth or a slightly damp sponge will remove any dust, preparing the wall for priming and painting or new wallpaper.
Common Mistakes When Removing Wallpaper Border
| Step | Typical Mistake | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Scoring | Gouging the drywall | Use a scoring tool or utility knife lightly. Only pierce the paper, not the wall. |
| Applying Solution | Over-saturating the wall | Spray the border evenly but avoid soaking the drywall, especially if unprimed. Wipe up excess drips immediately. |
| Peeling | Forcing the border off | Let the solution soak sufficiently. Peel slowly and gently. Reapply solution if resistance is met. |
| Removing Residue | Leaving adhesive behind | Scrub gently with warm, soapy water. Use a commercial stripper or baking soda paste for tough spots. Rinse thoroughly. |
| Final Prep | Painting over residue | Ensure all adhesive is completely removed and the wall is clean and dry before priming or painting. |
FAQ
Can I use a steamer to remove wallpaper border?
Yes, a wallpaper steamer can be very effective, especially for older or tougher adhesives. Hold the steamer plate against the border for 15-30 seconds to soften the glue, then scrape and peel. Be cautious not to hold it too long in one spot to avoid damaging the drywall.
What if the wallpaper border is vinyl or washable?
Vinyl or washable borders often have a protective top layer that prevents water or solutions from penetrating. You’ll need to score these very thoroughly, or even better, use a perforating tool designed for vinyl wallpaper. This allows the removal solution to reach the adhesive.
How do I know if I’ve removed all the adhesive?
After washing and drying the wall, run your hand over the surface. If it feels sticky or tacky, there’s still adhesive present. You may need to re-wash or use a specific adhesive remover. Priming over remaining residue will often seal it, but it’s best to remove it completely for a smooth finish.
Can I just paint over the wallpaper border?
While technically possible, painting over a wallpaper border is generally not recommended. The border will likely remain visible as a slightly raised line, and the paint may peel or crack over time, especially at the edges. It’s always best to remove it first for a professional and lasting finish.
