How Do You Remove Wallpaper with Paint on It?

To remove wallpaper with paint on it, use a scraper tool, focusing on lifting and peeling the wallpaper in alternating directions.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Cover the floor with drop cloths to protect it from falling debris and moisture. Good ventilation is essential, so open windows and doors.

2. Gather Your Tools: You'll need:

   • A 3-in-1 scraper tool (or a similar wallpaper scraper)
   • Drop cloths
   • Spray bottle with water, or wallpaper scoring tool and wallpaper removal solution (if scraping alone isn't sufficient)
   • Sponges or cloths
   • Trash bags

3. Scraping the Painted Wallpaper:

   • Locate a Starting Point: Find a loose edge or corner of the wallpaper. If none exists, try using the sharpest corner of your scraper to carefully create one.
   • Insert the Scraper: Insert the scraper's edge beneath the wallpaper, angling it slightly upwards.
   • Scrape Away: Begin scraping the wallpaper away from the wall. Use a technique that involves alternating directions (up, down, left, right) to loosen the adhesive. Apply consistent pressure, but be careful not to damage the wall behind the wallpaper.

4. If Scraping Alone Isn't Enough: The paint layer can make it difficult for water to penetrate the wallpaper glue. If you are having trouble, try one of these methods:

   • Scoring the Wallpaper: Use a wallpaper scoring tool to create perforations in the painted surface. This allows water or wallpaper removal solution to penetrate the paint and reach the adhesive. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the scoring tool.
   • Applying Water/Solution: After scoring, spray the wallpaper liberally with warm water or a commercial wallpaper removal solution. Let it soak for the recommended time (usually 10-15 minutes) to soften the adhesive.
   • Repeat Scraping: Once the wallpaper is saturated, try scraping again. The water or solution should have weakened the glue, making the wallpaper easier to remove.

5. Dealing with Stubborn Areas: Some areas might be more difficult to remove than others. For these stubborn spots:

   • Reapply water or solution and let it soak longer.
   • Use a sponge or cloth to keep the area saturated.
   • Apply more pressure with the scraper, but be cautious to avoid damaging the wall.

6. Cleaning Up: After removing all the wallpaper:

   • Scrape off any remaining adhesive residue with the scraper.
   • Wash the wall with a sponge and warm water to remove any remaining glue or solution.
   • Allow the wall to dry completely before painting or re-wallpapering.

By carefully scraping, and using moisture or wallpaper removal solution as needed, you can effectively remove painted wallpaper. Remember to be patient and avoid damaging the wall surface underneath.