How to Remove Wallpaper Like a Pro — Tips from a Northern Virginia Painting Contractor

27 Oct How to Remove Wallpaper Like a Pro — Tips from a Northern Virginia Painting Contractor

Let’s be honest — removing wallpaper isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. It’s one of those home projects that sounds simple until you’re standing there with a scraper in one hand and regret in the other. However, by following the correct process, it can be a manageable project for the handy homeowner who likes a challenge.

As one of the top painting contractors in Northern Virginia, we’ve seen it all when it comes to wallpaper—vinyl, foil, grass cloth, even burlap (yes, really). Here are our tips to help you out.

Before You Begin: To Remove or Not to Remove?

First things first: don’t layer new wallpaper over old wallpaper unless the existing paper is in impeccable shape—no bubbling, peeling, or tears—and there’s only one layer on the wall. Keep in mind that layering new wallpaper over old wallpaper will likely shorten its lifespan.

If you suspect multiple layers or you’re dealing with textured, fabric, or vinyl wallpaper, it’s time to strip it all down to the wall. Trust us—it’s worth it in the long run.

Planning to paint instead of repaper? All wallpaper must come off for a professional finish. Call us for assistance if needed!

Prep the Room Like a Pro

1. Start by clearing the room—remove wall decor, outlet covers, and move furniture to the center. Cover everything with plastic sheeting and tape it down. Removing wallpaper can get messy.
2. Protect your floors with drop cloths or towels along the baseboards, then cover those with plastic for easy cleanup.

A little prep now will save you from a major mess later.

If You Have Newer Wallpaper

Lucky you! Most modern wallpapers are “strippable,” meaning they (usually) peel right off without chemicals or water. Test a small corner—if it pulls away cleanly, keep going.

But if you notice drywall coming off along with the wallpaper, stop immediately. That means someone didn’t seal the wall properly, and you’ll need to repair, sand, and prime before moving forward. (That’s a good time to call in a professional.)

If You Have Older Wallpaper

You’ll need a specialty liquid wallpaper stripper. Apply it in sections from top to bottom and let it soak in before peeling. Don’t let it dry on the wall.

If the paper resists, lightly sand or score it to help the liquid penetrate. Some old papers need multiple applications before they finally surrender. Patience is key here. Take your time.

If You Have Washable Wallpaper

Washable wallpaper has a coating that resists water, so you’ll need to score it very carefully first. Spray the liquid stripper over the surface, wait five to ten minutes, and then start peeling.

This is one of those jobs where the right tools—like a scoring tool or coarse sandpaper—make all the difference.

Steam Removal

Steaming wallpaper is a two-person operation, and it can be tricky if you’ve never done it before. One person steams (very carefully) while the other peels. You may still need to score the wallpaper first for best results.

If you go this route, follow the steamer’s instructions carefully—and don’t rush it. (Or, better yet, hire a professional.)

Need a Hand?

Wallpaper removal can test anyone’s patience. If you’d rather skip the mess and go straight to beautiful, paint-ready walls, give us a call. We help homeowners all over Northern Virginia with wallpaper removal, painting, and more.

Mike Katounas