Person removing old wallpaper from a wall using a wallpaper steamer and scraper.

How to Remove Wallpaper Properly

Removing wallpaper correctly is just as important as installing it properly. Using the right tools and techniques helps protect your walls, reduces repair work, and prepares the surface for either new wallpaper or fresh paint.

The safest and most effective method combines steam, water, and a professional wallpaper adhesive remover. This is the same process many professional wallpaper installers use for residential and commercial projects.

The Best Way to Remove Wallpaper

The most effective tool for wallpaper removal is a wallpaper steamer, also called a steam generator.

Steam softens the wallpaper adhesive, allowing the wallpaper to release from the wall with much less force than dry scraping.

Compared to scraping alone, steaming:

  • Removes wallpaper faster
  • Reduces drywall damage
  • Softens stubborn adhesive
  • Makes large projects much easier
  • Requires less physical effort

For most modern wallpapers, a steamer is the preferred removal method.

Step 1 – Remove the Decorative Surface

Most modern wallpapers consist of two layers:

  • Decorative surface, such as vinyl or printed layer
  • Paper or non-woven backing

Begin by gently lifting a corner and peeling away the decorative face layer.

Applying steam directly to the wallpaper helps soften the adhesive, making this step much easier.

Step 2 – Remove the Backing

After the decorative layer has been removed, the paper backing usually remains attached to the wall.

Using either:

  • A wallpaper steamer
  • Warm water with a sponge or sprayer

soften the backing until it releases easily.

Never force dry wallpaper off the wall. If it does not peel away easily, it simply needs more moisture or steam.

Taking your time during this stage helps minimize damage to the drywall.

Wallpaper removal tools including a steam cleaner, Roman PRO-466 wallpaper paste remover concentrate, and a wallpaper scraper.

Step 3 – Remove Remaining Adhesive

Even after all wallpaper has been removed, adhesive residue usually remains on the wall.

This residue must be completely removed before painting or installing new wallpaper.

One of the most effective products for this step is Roman Wallpaper Adhesive Remover.

Simply dilute the concentrate according to the manufacturer's instructions, apply it with a spray bottle or pump sprayer, allow it to dwell for the recommended time, and wipe or rinse away the softened adhesive.

Removing all adhesive residue is essential because leftover paste can interfere with paint adhesion, primer performance, and new wallpaper installation.

Inspect the Wall

Once the wallpaper and adhesive have been removed, inspect the drywall carefully.

If the wall remains smooth and undamaged, preparation is simple.

If you notice:

  • Torn drywall paper
  • Small gouges
  • Minor dents
  • Surface imperfections

these areas should be repaired before finishing the wall.

If You're Planning to Paint

If the drywall is in good condition:

  • Remove all adhesive residue
  • Allow the wall to dry completely
  • Apply a quality primer
  • Paint using your preferred interior paint

A clean, properly primed wall produces a smoother, longer-lasting paint finish.

If You're Installing New Wallpaper

If you plan to install new wallpaper:

  • Remove all adhesive residue
  • Allow the wall to dry
  • Apply a wallpaper primer such as Roman RX-35
  • Install the new wallpaper using the recommended wallpaper adhesive

Proper preparation ensures excellent adhesion and makes future wallpaper removal much easier.

When Wall Repairs Are Necessary

In many cases, it is difficult to remove wallpaper without causing at least minor damage to the drywall.

This is completely normal, especially if:

  • The original walls were never primed
  • Wallpaper was installed directly over drywall
  • Multiple wallpaper layers were installed
  • Strong construction adhesives were used

Professional wall preparation after wallpaper removal often includes:

  • Minor drywall patching
  • Skim coating
  • Sanding
  • Dust removal
  • Primer application

After these repairs, the wall is ready for either paint or a new wallpaper installation.

Professional Tips

For the best results:

  • Use a wallpaper steamer instead of dry scraping
  • Never rush the removal process
  • Remove all adhesive residue before priming
  • Allow walls to dry completely before repairs or finishing
  • Prime walls before installing new wallpaper
  • Use sharp tools carefully to avoid damaging drywall

Proper preparation will always produce a better final result than trying to save time during removal.

Professional Recommendation

Wallpaper removal is often the most time-consuming part of a renovation, but it is also one of the most important.

Using a wallpaper steamer together with Roman Wallpaper Adhesive Remover provides the safest and most effective method for removing wallpaper while protecting the wall surface.

Once the wall has been properly cleaned, repaired if necessary, and primed, it is ready for either a fresh coat of paint or a beautiful new wallpaper installation.

Investing time in proper removal and preparation ensures a smoother finish, better adhesion, and longer-lasting results.

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