How Do You Remove Acrylic Wallpaper?

To remove acrylic wallpaper effectively, utilizing a chemical stripping solution is a common and recommended method. This process involves applying the solution to the wallpaper surface to break down the adhesive, allowing the paper to be scraped off more easily.

Understanding Chemical Stripping Solutions

Based on the provided information, a stripping solution is a chemical liquid specifically designed to aid in wallpaper removal. It works by penetrating the wallpaper and dissolving or weakening the paste holding it to the wall.

• Availability: These solutions come in various forms. You can find them as ready-to-use mixtures or concentrates that require diluting with water according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Application: For ease of use, stripping solutions are typically packaged in bottles or as sprays. This allows for targeted and efficient application to the wallpaper surface.

Steps for Removing Acrylic Wallpaper with a Stripping Solution

While the reference focuses on the solution itself, the general process for using one involves several key steps:

Preparation is Key

Before you begin, ensure the room is well-ventilated. Protect your floors and furniture with drop cloths or plastic sheeting. It's also advisable to turn off the power to the room at the breaker box for safety, especially when working near outlets or switches.

Applying the Stripping Solution

1. Preparation: If your solution is a concentrate, dilute it according to the product instructions. If using a ready-to-use spray, ensure the nozzle is set correctly.
2. Initial Application: Apply the stripping solution generously to a section of the wallpaper. Start with a smaller, inconspicuous area to test its effectiveness and determine the required soaking time.
3. Allow Soaking: Let the solution sit on the wallpaper for the time recommended by the product manufacturer. This soaking time is crucial as it allows the chemical to penetrate the acrylic layer and reach the adhesive underneath.
4. Reapply if Needed: If the solution dries out before the soaking time is up, reapply to keep the section wet. Avoid letting the solution run excessively, but ensure the surface is saturated.

Removing the Wallpaper

Once the solution has soaked in, begin the removal process:

• Scraping: Use a wallpaper scraper or putty knife with rounded corners (to avoid damaging the wall) to gently lift and peel away the saturated wallpaper. Start from a seam or corner.
• Working in Sections: Work on one section at a time. Apply the solution, let it soak, and then scrape before moving to the next area. This prevents the solution from drying out.
• Stubborn Spots: For areas where the wallpaper or adhesive is particularly stubborn, reapply the stripping solution and allow more soaking time before attempting to scrape again.

Cleaning Up

After removing all the wallpaper, wash the walls with clean water and a sponge to remove any residual adhesive or stripping solution. This prepares the wall for refinishing (e.g., patching, priming, painting).

Practical Tips for Wallpaper Removal

• Ventilation: Ensure good airflow during the entire process due to the chemicals involved in stripping solutions.
• Protective Gear: Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect your skin and eyes from the stripping solution.
• Wall Type: Be aware of the type of wall surface underneath. Some older walls (like plaster) might be more susceptible to damage from excessive moisture or aggressive scraping than drywall.
• Test Area: Always test the stripping solution on a small, hidden area first.

Summary of Steps

Using a chemical stripping solution, as described, is an effective way to tackle the removal of acrylic wallpaper by breaking down the adhesive layer.