Removing wallpaper glue can be a daunting and time-consuming task. But fear not, anyone can learn how to remove wallpaper glue with some patience and dedication. If you’re ready to power through and achieve that smooth, clean wall you desire, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Clear the room.
Before you begin, remove all furniture and accessories from the room. If you can’t move everything, at least protect them with a plastic tarp. Cover the floors with another tarp. As an extra precaution, use painter’s tape to cover the electrical outlets in the room. It’s also a good idea to turn off the power to the room. Lastly, make sure you have plenty of trash bags handy because things are about to get messy!
Step 2: Mix hot water with dish soap and baking soda (or vinegar).
In a bucket, combine hot water, liquid dish soap, and a heaping tablespoon of baking soda. If you’re dealing with particularly stubborn adhesive, add one cup of vinegar for every gallon of water used.
Step 3: Sponge the hot solution onto patches of wallpaper glue.
Soak a sponge in the solution, squeeze out the excess liquid, and gently rub the sponge over a small section of wallpaper glue. Test the glue with your fingernail, and you should notice that the glue has softened considerably. Continue applying the solution to the wall.
Step 4: Remove wallpaper glue with a putty knife and cloth.
Take a rag and try wiping a small section of glue off the wall. If it’s ready, a good portion of the glue will come right off. Then, use a putty knife to scrape away the adhesive. It’s important to remove every last bit of wallpaper glue to ensure a smooth surface for future paint jobs. Use a clean cloth and circular motions to wipe off the softening solution. Move on to the next section and repeat the process from Step 3. Once you finish the entire wall, let the room fully air out.
Step 5: Switch to a commercial wallpaper remover if needed.
If the wallpaper glue seems stubborn and doesn’t budge, you may need to switch to a commercial wallpaper remover. There are various products available, such as the fast-acting solvent from WP Chomp, which you can find on Amazon. This step is not usually necessary, but different installers use different types of glue, and some can be more stubborn than others.
Step 6: Prep for painting or restore the room.
Remove the painter’s tape and tarps, and put back the furniture in the room, unless you plan to paint. If you’re painting, congratulations! You’re ready to continue working. If you’re exhausted, take a break and come back refreshed to tackle any further tasks.
And there you have it! By following these steps, you can successfully remove wallpaper glue and achieve a clean, smooth wall. If you need further assistance or want to learn more about home improvement tips, visit Abstract Education. Happy renovating!
