Should You Hire a Professional to Remove Wallpaper?
If you want to remove wallpaper, you may wonder if you should hire a professional. A professional will have the skills and equipment to do the job quickly and efficiently.
Steaming vs. Steaming Wallpaper
If you have been considering removing old wallpaper from your walls, you may wonder what the best method is. There are two main ways to remove wallpaper: steaming and chemical stripping. Steaming is much quicker and safer for you and the environment. However, chemicals are more expensive.
You are steaming works by applying hot, moist steam to the wall. The heat from the steam penetrates and softens the paper adhesive. It is used on both old and new wallpaper. But you must ensure you use the right tools for the job.
During the process, you should wear protective gloves. In addition, you should not use too much moisture. Excess moisture can damage the plaster surface.
You can also use a scraper to remove the paper after you steam it. This is especially useful if the wallpaper has stubborn adhesive.
Another option is to use a spray bottle to apply a liquid wallpaper removal solution. This is a great way to get even coverage. A paint roller can also be used for larger areas.
Another option is to buy a steamer. These can be rented or purchased for around $30 per day. Alternatively, you can borrow one from a friend.
Some steamers have a built-in water tank. Others have a hose that is longer and wider. The longer hose makes it easier to reach more of the room.
First, prime the wall with a drywall primer to prepare for the removal. Next, use a paint scraper to loosen any adhesive. Start at the bottom of the wallpaper border and work upwards.
When you start to see the edges of the wallpaper starting to peel off, continue the process. Continue until you have removed the majority of the wallpaper.
Depending on the type of wallpaper you try to remove, you may need to use a steamer or a chemical stripper. Chemical strippers are very dangerous and can release toxic fumes into the air.
Using a Razor Knife to Remove Stubborn Sections
A razor blade may not be the first thing you think of when considering the best way to remove wallpaper from your wall. But it’s a great way to remove some of the stickier stuff. If you have the patience and the inclination to go for it, you’ll be rewarded with a nice clean, and fresh wall.
The best way to do it is by following a few simple steps. First, you’ll want to determine if wallpaper borders or trim are sticking out of your wall or if you’re dealing with a vinyl-coated covering. Next, you’ll need to find the right tools to get the job done. Depending on what you’re dealing with, you can choose a few options: a utility knife, a putty knife, and a sander.
Consider using a wallpaper steamer. It’s a great way to tackle a stubborn mess, much less messy than many may think. Alternatively, you can use a hair dryer to do the heavy lifting.
However, you’ll still need to get rid of the rest of the paper. For this, you’ll need the right tools and a decent amount of patience. After all, the task is going to take some time. So before you get started, make sure to wear protective gloves. Also, remember to read the directions. As for the procedure, you’ll want to start by cleaning the area in question and applying the solution. Once the site is sufficiently moist, you can get to work.
Of course, you’ll also need to use a ladder. With that in mind, you can finally complete that big clean you’ve been putting off. This might sound like a daunting task, but it isn’t. Getting a good start can save you hours of frustration in the end.
Cost of Hiring a Professional
Removing wallpaper can be a challenging and time-consuming process. Depending on the size of the room, the amount of wallpaper, and the number of layers, it can take between a few days and a couple of weeks. A good estimate should include the work’s cost and the materials needed.
A professional wallpaper removal services will examine the type of wall and the number of layers of wallpaper to calculate the proper estimate. Some contractors will charge by the square foot, while others will charge by the roll. Those who charge by the hour will charge anywhere from $35 to $55 an hour.
If you want a quote, get several, so you don’t overpay. You may also be charged sales tax on the total price.
Some contractors will charge by the square foot, so be prepared to pay more if the job is more complicated. For example, you may need to hire scaffolding and safety equipment to remove wallpaper from a stairwell.
When you compare quotes, be sure to check out the company’s history. Avoid fly-by-night companies that lack a legitimate mailing address. Check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints.
The average price for removing wallpaper is between $420 and $1190. It’s important to note that a lot can go into a project, so be sure to factor in labor and any permits required.
Choosing the right contractor can make or break your project. Be sure to find out what kind of experience they have and how they will handle the task. An inexperienced contractor can cost you more and damage the walls.
Aside from removing wallpaper, you’ll need to consider the cost of the paint. Oil-based paint will likely peel more easily than latex paint and may require more work hours.