How to remove border wallpaper from wall
To remove border wallpaper from walls, score the border to allow a remover solution to penetrate, then apply the solution generously. Allow it to soak, then gently peel or scrape the border away, cleaning any residue with a sponge and water.
Removing old wallpaper borders is a common home improvement task. Whether you’re redecorating or refreshing a room, getting rid of that dated border cleanly is key to a smooth finish. You can tackle this job yourself with some basic tools and a little patience. The process involves scoring the wallpaper, applying a removal solution, and then carefully peeling or scraping it off.
Before you begin, gather your supplies. You’ll need a scoring tool (like a Piranha or PaperTiger), a spray bottle filled with a wallpaper remover solution (hot water mixed with a little dish soap or a commercial stripper works well), a putty knife or scraper (plastic is gentler on walls), a sponge, a bucket of clean water, and possibly a ladder or step stool. Protect your floors and furniture with drop cloths or plastic sheeting.
Score the wallpaper border
The first step is to score the wallpaper border. This creates small perforations that allow the removal solution to penetrate the wallpaper’s surface and reach the adhesive underneath. Without scoring, the solution may not soak in effectively, making removal much harder. Use a scoring tool designed for wallpaper; these have small, sharp wheels that create tiny holes without damaging the drywall. Move the scoring tool in a consistent pattern, overlapping slightly, along the entire length of the border. Be thorough but avoid pressing too hard, which could gouder the wall itself.
Apply the wallpaper remover solution
Once the border is scored, it’s time to apply the remover solution. Fill a spray bottle with your chosen solution. A common DIY mix is one part white vinegar to one part hot water, or a few drops of dish soap in hot water. Commercial wallpaper strippers are also available and can be very effective. Generously spray the solution directly onto the scored border, ensuring it’s thoroughly saturated. Don’t be shy with the spray; the goal is to make the adhesive soft and pliable.
Let the solution soak into the wallpaper for at least 10-15 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on the type of wallpaper and adhesive used. You should see the wallpaper start to bubble or loosen slightly. If it seems to be drying out, reapply more solution. Patience here is crucial; allowing adequate soaking time will make the removal process much smoother and prevent damage to the underlying wall surface.
Peel and scrape the wallpaper border
After the solution has had time to soak, begin peeling the border away. Start at a corner or seam if possible. Gently pull the wallpaper downwards. If it comes off easily in strips, great! If it’s stubborn, use a putty knife or scraper. Hold the scraper at a low angle (around 30 degrees) against the wall to avoid gouging the drywall. Work slowly and deliberately, lifting the wallpaper as you go. Apply more solution to any areas that are still sticking.
Be mindful of the wall surface. If you encounter resistance, don’t force it. Apply more remover solution and let it soak longer. Sometimes, borders are applied over painted walls, and the paint might start to peel with the wallpaper. In such cases, scoring might not be enough, and you may need to use a stronger stripper or accept that some paint touch-up will be necessary.
Clean the wall surface
Once the majority of the border is removed, you’ll likely have some adhesive residue left on the wall. This needs to be cleaned off before you can paint or apply new wallpaper. Mix a fresh batch of your chosen cleaning solution (hot water with a little dish soap is usually sufficient). Use a sponge or a soft cloth to wipe down the entire area where the border was. Rinse the sponge frequently in a separate bucket of clean water.
For any stubborn spots of adhesive, you can try a slightly more concentrated solution or a specialized adhesive remover. Gently scrub the residue. Avoid using abrasive pads or harsh chemicals that could damage the drywall. After cleaning, wipe the wall down with a clean, damp sponge to remove any soap residue, and then dry the area with a clean towel. Allow the wall to dry completely before proceeding with any further decoration.
Common Mistakes When Removing Wallpaper Borders
| Step/Tool | Typical Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Scoring Tool | Not scoring enough or scoring too deeply. | Wallpaper doesn’t absorb solution properly, leading to difficult removal. Alternatively, the drywall surface is damaged. |
| Wallpaper Remover Solution | Not letting the solution soak long enough, or using too weak a solution. | Adhesive remains sticky and difficult to remove, requiring excessive scraping and potential wall damage. |
| Scraper/Putty Knife | Using a sharp metal scraper or holding it at too steep an angle. | Gouging or tearing the drywall surface, creating more work for repairs before repainting. |
| Cleaning Residue | Leaving adhesive residue on the wall or not rinsing thoroughly. | New paint or wallpaper will not adhere properly, leading to peeling or an uneven finish. |
FAQ
Can I remove wallpaper border with just hot water?
Hot water alone can sometimes work on very old, brittle wallpaper borders, especially if the adhesive has degraded over time. However, for most modern adhesives, you’ll need a dedicated wallpaper remover solution or a mix of hot water with dish soap or vinegar to effectively soften the glue.
How do I know if I damaged the drywall?
You’ll see gouges, tears, or deep scratches in the drywall paper or the gypsum core itself. If you notice this, you’ll need to repair the damaged area with joint compound and sandpaper before you can paint or re-wallpaper.
What if the border is painted over?
If the border is painted, scoring may not be sufficient. The paint can create a barrier. You might need to score more aggressively, use a stronger chemical stripper, or consider a different removal method like steaming, though steaming can be more aggressive and potentially damage the drywall if not done carefully.
How long does it take to remove a wallpaper border?
The time varies greatly depending on the length of the border, the type of wallpaper and adhesive, and how well it was applied. It can take anywhere from one to several hours. Patience is key; rushing the process often leads to wall damage.