Service Overview
Removing old wallpaper is often the essential first step before any wall update, whether you plan to install new wallpaper, paint, or apply a different finish. Our professional removal service ensures old wallcoverings come off completely without damaging the underlying drywall or plaster.
Our wallpaper removal service includes:
- Assessment of existing wallpaper type and adhesive
- Protection of floors, trim, and adjacent surfaces
- Complete removal of wallpaper and adhesive residue
- Wall repair for any minor damage uncovered
- Surface preparation for your chosen next finish
- Thorough cleanup and debris removal
Our Removal Process
- Test a small area to determine wallpaper type and best removal method
- Protect floors, baseboards, and electrical outlets with drop cloths and tape
- Score wallpaper surface if needed for solution penetration
- Apply appropriate removal solution and allow proper dwell time
- Carefully strip wallpaper in sections, minimizing wall damage
- Remove all adhesive residue with specialized cleaners
- Repair, smooth, and prepare walls for next finish
Protecting Your Drywall
The biggest risk during wallpaper removal is damaging the drywall paper face underneath. Aggressive scraping, over-soaking, or improper technique can tear drywall paper, requiring expensive repairs. Our team uses controlled methods that soften adhesive without saturating the wall, and we use broad scrapers at proper angles to lift wallpaper cleanly.
For stubborn wallpapers that were applied without proper sizing, we employ steam techniques and enzyme-based solutions that break down adhesive bonds without harming wall surfaces. Multiple layers of old wallpaper are removed systematically, one layer at a time.
Post-Removal Wall Preparation
After removal, walls are rarely ready for immediate finishing. Our post-removal preparation includes:
- Washing walls to remove all adhesive traces
- Skim coating areas where drywall paper was compromised
- Sanding smooth for paint-ready or wallpaper-ready finish
- Priming with appropriate product for your next wall treatment
- Identifying and addressing any moisture or mold issues uncovered
Materials and Situations We Handle
- Vinyl wallpaper (peelable face with paper backing)
- Traditional paper wallpaper
- Fabric-backed commercial wallcoverings
- Multiple layers of old wallpaper
- Wallpaper applied directly over drywall (no primer)
- Painted-over wallpaper
- Border and partial wallpaper removal
Pricing Factors
- Number of layers and wallpaper type
- Room size and wall square footage
- Whether wallpaper was properly sized before installation
- Extent of wall repair needed after removal
- Desired finish level (paint-ready vs. wallpaper-ready)
- Accessibility and room complexity
Why Choose Urban Style for Removal
- Techniques that prioritize drywall protection
- Experience with difficult multi-layer removal
- Complete service including wall restoration
- Clean, contained work areas
- Honest assessment of wall condition after removal
- Seamless transition to new wallpaper installation if desired
Areas We Serve
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I paint over old wallpaper instead of removing it?
While possible in some cases, painting over wallpaper often leads to problems including visible seams, bubbling, and peeling. Professional removal provides a clean foundation for any finish and better long-term results.
How long does wallpaper removal take?
A standard room typically takes 1 day for removal and basic prep. Rooms with multiple layers or difficult adhesive may require additional time. We provide accurate estimates after initial assessment.
Will removal damage my walls?
Our techniques are designed to minimize wall damage. Some minor repair is normal, especially if wallpaper was applied without proper sizing. We include basic wall repair in our service.
Can you remove wallpaper from plaster walls?
Yes, we have experience removing wallpaper from both drywall and plaster. Plaster requires gentler techniques to avoid cracking or loosening the plaster from the lath.
What if there are multiple layers of wallpaper?
We remove all layers systematically. Multiple layers take longer but our process handles them effectively. Each layer is addressed individually for complete removal.
Do you dispose of the old wallpaper?
Yes, complete cleanup and debris removal is included in our service. We leave your space clean and ready for the next phase of your project.
Can you install new wallpaper after removal?
Absolutely. Many clients combine removal and new installation in one project. We prepare walls specifically for new wallpaper adhesion, ensuring optimal results for your new wallcovering.
Is DIY wallpaper removal a good idea?
Small areas of modern strippable wallpaper can sometimes be DIY-friendly. However, older wallpapers, multiple layers, or large areas benefit significantly from professional techniques that protect your walls and save time.