Professional Wallpaper Removal
Safe, thorough wallpaper stripping that protects your walls and prepares surfaces for whatever comes next.
Service Overview
Removing old wallpaper is often the first step toward a fresh interior — whether you plan to install new wallpaper or switch to paint. Our professional removal service ensures the job is done correctly, protecting the underlying drywall or plaster from damage that DIY attempts often cause.
We handle all types of wallpaper removal, from single-layer vinyl that peels cleanly to stubborn multi-layer applications with decades-old adhesive. Our methods are tailored to the specific wallpaper type and wall surface to achieve the best possible result.
- Single-layer and multi-layer wallpaper removal
- Vinyl, paper, fabric, and foil wallpaper stripping
- Adhesive residue cleanup and wall washing
- Drywall repair after removal (patching, skim-coating)
- Surface preparation for new wallpaper or paint
- Disposal of all removed materials
Our Removal Process
- Assessment: We examine the wallpaper type, number of layers, adhesive condition, and underlying wall surface to determine the best removal approach.
- Protection: We cover floors, furniture, and fixtures with drop cloths and plastic sheeting to prevent water and debris damage.
- Scoring (if needed): For vinyl or coated wallpapers, we score the surface to allow moisture penetration without damaging the wall beneath.
- Softening: We apply warm water or commercial wallpaper removal solution to soften the adhesive, allowing the paper to release from the wall.
- Stripping: Using professional tools, we carefully remove the wallpaper in sections, working methodically to avoid gouging or tearing the drywall.
- Adhesive Cleanup: All remaining adhesive residue is washed and scraped from the wall surface.
- Surface Preparation: We repair any minor damage, sand rough spots, and prepare the wall for its next finish.
Protecting Your Drywall
The biggest risk during wallpaper removal is damage to the underlying wall surface. Aggressive scraping, excessive moisture, or improper tools can gouge drywall, tear paper facing, or cause water damage that requires expensive repairs.
Our team uses controlled moisture application, professional-grade scrapers with appropriate blade angles, and patient technique to remove wallpaper without compromising the wall beneath. We know when to apply more solution and when to let it work longer rather than forcing removal.
If we encounter areas where the drywall paper facing has been previously damaged (common in DIY removal attempts), we can skim-coat and repair these areas as part of the project.
Post-Removal Surface Preparation
After wallpaper removal, the wall surface needs proper preparation before any new finish is applied. Our post-removal prep includes:
- Adhesive residue removal: All remaining paste is washed and scraped clean
- Wall washing: Surfaces are cleaned to remove any chemical residue from removal solutions
- Damage assessment: We identify any areas that need patching or repair
- Skim-coating: For walls with multiple imperfections, a thin skim coat creates a smooth surface
- Sanding: All repairs are sanded smooth and blended with surrounding areas
- Priming: A coat of appropriate primer seals the surface for new wallpaper or paint
Whether you plan to install new wallpaper or paint, we leave your walls in perfect condition for the next step.
Pricing Factors
- Number of layers: Multiple layers of wallpaper take significantly longer to remove
- Wallpaper type: Vinyl is typically easier than old paper-based wallpapers with strong adhesive
- Adhesive condition: Old, dried adhesive is more difficult to soften and remove
- Wall surface: Drywall vs. plaster affects technique and time
- Room size: Total square footage of wall area
- Post-removal prep level: Basic cleaning vs. full skim-coat and prime
Timeline & Preparation
- Most single-room removals are completed in one day
- Multi-layer or large rooms may require 1.5-2 days
- Clear furniture away from walls before our arrival
- Ensure access to water (we need to mix removal solution)
- Plan for the room to be unavailable during the process
- Allow 24 hours for walls to dry before painting or new wallpaper
Why Choose Professional Removal
- Avoid drywall damage that costs more to repair than professional removal
- Proper tools and techniques for efficient, clean results
- Complete adhesive removal — no sticky residue left behind
- Wall surface ready for immediate next steps
- All debris removed and disposed of properly
- Save time — what takes a homeowner a weekend, we complete in hours