Email Signup ×

STAY CONNECTED

Find out what's new from Wagner including product news, exclusive email offers, promotions and more.

Removing old wallpaper

Removing Wallpaper

Chemical-free way to remove wallpaper

Overview

When most people undertake a painting project, it's not the actual painting that they dread, it is the preparation. And when preparation means removing wallpaper, it's particularly difficult. Removing wallpaper doesn't have to be difficult. Using a steamer can be a huge time saver. Because they can be used for multiple tasks, such as cleaning tile, stove tops and other sanitizing purposes, it might be a great time to invest in one for your home.

1

PREPARING THE ROOM

Prepare the area by moving furniture from the room or at least moving it to the middle. Cover furniture and flooring at the bottom of the wall because the glue from the wallpaper is very sticky and can be difficult to remove once on fabric or carpet.

Man using Wagner Wallpaper Steamer
2

CAREFULLY SCORING THE WALLPAPER

Start by scoring the wallpaper. Remember, you don’t want to damage the wall underneath so it is ideal to invest in a special scoring tool that properly perforates the wallpaper before steaming and stripping.

Woman using Wagner Wallpaper steamer
3

APPLYING THE WALLPAPER STEAMER

Select the wallpaper steamer, then apply steamer to the wallpaper and slowly pull the paper to remove it from the wall. If your wallpaper is old, one swipe might be all you need for removal, because older adhesives can be more susceptible to moisture. Newer wallpaper has better glue technology and might be more difficult and require additional scoring and steam application.

Woman using Wagner wallpaper steamer to remove wallpaper
4

REMOVING ANY REMAINING GLUE

After you remove a piece of wallpaper, it is a good idea to take a damp, warm rag and gently wipe the area to remove excess glue that might remain on the wall. If the glue begins to harden, simply soften it with a quick swipe of your steamer.

Man Removing wallpaper with a steamer
5

EXAMINE FOR POTENTIAL DAMAGE

Once dry, examine any dents or damages that have affected the wall. This is the time to repair any damaged areas to ensure the best-looking results. Use putty or plaster on any larger holes and consider priming the entire wall prior to painting. Once the wall is clean and smooth, you can start priming and painting.

Wagner Wallpaper Steamer
Products Used

Materials

Drywall Knife

Scoring Tool

Sponge

Safety Glasses

Download project steps & shopping list

We'll never share your email with anyone else.

suggested other projects

How to Paint a Geometric Wall
How to Paint a Geometric Wall

Do you have a wall in your house that you want to update? Learn how to create a geometric accent wall to add a focal point...

Learn More
HOW TO PAINT A CEILING
HOW TO PAINT A CEILING

Painting a ceiling isn't always the easiest project. Follow these simple tips for spray painting ceilings....

Learn More
Painting a Bathroom
Painting a Bathroom

Give your bathroom a whole new look in just an afternoon. ...

Learn More
Stay Connected

Find out what’s new from Wagner including product news, exclusive email offers, promotions and more.