Wallpaper magnifies wall preparation. A small bump, torn drywall paper or old adhesive ridge that is easy to ignore under paint can become obvious through a new wall covering.
Removal and installation should therefore be treated as two separate stages.
Wallpaper Removal
Existing wallpaper may be strippable, peelable, vinyl-coated, paper-backed or heavily bonded with older adhesive.
Removal methods can involve scoring, moisture, steam or adhesive remover depending on the product and wall condition.
The goal is to remove the wall covering without unnecessarily damaging the drywall paper or plaster underneath.
Older Wall Coverings and Adhesives
Older wallpaper, paint, wall texture or substrate compounds can raise lead or asbestos concerns.
If removal will involve sanding, aggressive scraping or disturbing unknown older materials, appropriate testing or precautions may be needed before creating dust.
Wall Preparation After Removal
After paper is removed, the wall may need adhesive cleanup, torn-paper sealing, skim repair, sanding and primer.
A wall that is damp, soft or damaged by an unresolved leak should not be covered with new wallpaper.
New Wallpaper Installation
Installation depends on:
- wall smoothness;
- primer or sizing requirements;
- wallpaper type;
- paste method;
- pattern repeat;
- seam placement;
- room corners;
- windows, doors and outlets.
The first sheet controls the alignment of everything that follows.
Pattern Matching and Seams
Large repeats or murals can require more material than simple roll coverage suggests.
Seams should remain clean and aligned without excessive paste or stretching that distorts the pattern.
FAQ
Can new wallpaper be installed immediately after removing old paper?
Only if the wall is clean, dry, smooth and properly prepared.
Can wallpaper hide damaged drywall?
No. Damage should be repaired first.
Can customer-supplied wallpaper be installed?
Potentially, after material type, roll quantity, repeat, wall condition and manufacturer requirements are reviewed.
Is painting included after wallpaper removal?
Not automatically.
For wall repair before installation, see Drywall & Wall Repair or use the contact page.