Removing my Wallpaper Destroyed my Drywall – Help!

When wallpaper doesn’t look dated or kitschy, it can be a great way to bring some texture and movement into any room. However, finding wallpaper that does just that can be a difficult search. Whether you’re tired of looking at a pattern that you never really liked in the first place, or you’re moving into a home with a few remaining relics of the past, you’ve probably wanted to remove the wallpaper in your life at some point in time.

The thing is, when you (or your contractor) put up that wallpaper, you wanted it to stay there. Taking it down without the proper preparation is guaranteed to leave you with some damaged drywall and a big mess on your hands. From the drywall repair contractors in Orlando at New Ceilings, here are a few steps to take if you find yourself in a wallpaper bind:

• First things first: stop what you’re doing. If you’re the type to say, “There’s no turning back now,” we strongly encourage you to change your tune. If you see your drywall is damaged when you start removing your wallpaper, don’t continue. Ripping off chunks of wallpaper glue can take chunks of drywall right with it, and you don’t want to risk serious structural damage.

• Learn the proper removal technique. If you’re determined to get it right on your own, at least learn the proper technique. Use a utility knife to gently score the wallpaper, then soak it down with a sprayer. Let it soak for at least ten minutes to soften the gluer, and then gently scrape it away with a putty knife. Note – don’t go back to the section that’s already damaged – start again on an intact patch!
• If you’re not sure, leave it to the pros. Sometimes, the uninitiated may scrape too deep and start removing drywall paper as well as wallpaper. If you’re not sure exactly what you’re removing, just refer to the first step again: stop what you’re doing and call a professional.

As far as the drywall repair team at New Ceilings is concerned, wallpaper can go the way of the popcorn ceiling – removed, never to return. If you’re ready to say goodbye to dated wallpaper and update your look with a chic coat of paint, give us a call at 407-378-6040 today. Your consultation comes with a one-on-one meeting with a Sherwin-Williams Color Specialist.