Service
Wallpaper removal and wall preparation
Removal is unpredictable until it is tested. We say so up front and plan for what the wall might reveal.
How removal is assessed
- A peel test to see whether the paper is strippable, peelable or neither
- An estimate of how many layers there are
- A look at what sits underneath: primed wall, bare drywall facing, plaster
The work
Depending on the paper, removal may involve dry stripping, soaking, scoring and scraping, followed by washing off paste residue. Residue left on the wall can cause new paint to crack or new paper to fail.
After removal
Repairs to torn drywall facing, filling and priming are often needed before the next finish. We discuss these as part of scope rather than as surprises.
Thinking of papering over instead?
Read removal or papering over before deciding.
Removal questions
Can you tell how hard removal will be from photos?
Photos help, but a peel test on the wall is far more reliable. Estimates note that assumption.
Will the wall be ready to paint afterwards?
Usually after residue washing, repairs and primer. Those steps are listed in the scope.
What if the drywall facing tears?
It is common with unprimed walls. Torn facing is sealed and skimmed before any new finish.
Next step
Tell us about the walls.
Rooms, measurements, the material you are considering and whether anything has to come off first. We will confirm availability for your location and talk through scope.